Network Statement in Response to Gender-Affirming Care Program Closure at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

We are devastated and outraged by the announcement that Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) will close its Center for Transyouth Health and Development and Gender-Affirming Care program effective July 22. In CHLA’s public statement claims the hospital had been “left with no viable path forward.” We ask: how is that possible in a state where laws still protect this lifesaving, evidence-based care? 

Let’s be clear—gender-affirming care is not only legal in California, but also recognized by every major medical and mental health association in the United States as effective, necessary, and lifesaving. The real reason behind this decision is not the law—it’s political pressure, fear, and stigma.  

This decision sends a chilling message to transgender, gender diverse, and intersex (TGI) youth: that even in a sanctuary state, they cannot count on trusted institutions to protect their right to exist, thrive, and receive the care they deserve. Trans youth are already navigating a hostile national landscape of anti-trans legislation and misinformation. Losing a trusted care provider like CHLA will only heighten their mental health distress, deepen family uncertainty, and worsen health outcomes.  

The recent 2022 U.S. Transgender Health and Wellbeing Report confirmed what trans people, providers, and public health experts have long known: gender-affirming care improves lives. It reduces suicidality, increases overall wellbeing, and helps people lead rich and meaningful lives. This report also dispels the false narrative of mass “detransitioning” being pushed by far-right extremists and anti-trans pundits. What it reveals instead is that people often delay or stop care not because they regret transitioning, but because society continues to make it dangerous and inaccessible. 

This backlash is not about concern for youth—it’s about erasing them. Claims that “more youth are suddenly identifying as transgender” ignore the reality that trans people have always existed. Increased visibility is a sign of progress, not a threat. Young people are coming out because they finally feel like they might be safe enough to do so. 

We cannot stand by while institutions cave to pressure that puts our communities at risk. We call on CHLA to reverse this harmful decision and recommit to supporting the lives of trans and gender-diverse youth. And we urge public officials, health leaders, and allies to speak out. Trans youth are not a political talking point. They are our community, our future, and they deserve care, safety, and dignity.