Statement on the government's decision to ban new prescriptions on puberty blockers for transgender children.

Trans Awareness Week and Trans Day of Remembrance are important kaupapa to acknowledge transgender experiences and reflect on those we have lost in acts of anti-transgender violence. With the news of the Government banning new prescriptions on puberty blockers for transgender children, it is a clear reminder that discrimination towards trans people are not just past challenges, but an ongoing struggle.

While we work out how this change might impact how we support young people and their whānau, we want to affirm that RainbowYOUTH is committed to caring for rangatahi through every stage of life. Our peer support mahi will remain focused on being guided by our young people and their whānau, ensuring that they have access to the care they need to grow older.

Our futures are brighter with trans lives in them.

Trans children are here to stay.
Trans futures are not going away.

This week we celebrated Trans Awareness Week. Today, on Trans Day of Remembrance, we remember the trans lives we've lost. RY stands in solidarity with trans tamariki, expressing our frustration with this news and solidifying our commitment to uphold trans rights. For more information on the ban we recommend reading QTopia’s statement and supporting the work PATHA do for trans healthcare in Aotearoa.