South Dakota’s Transformation Advocacy Network to show documentary, write letters to support Senate Bill 216

Responding to the challenges presented by the enactment of House Bill 1080 on Dec. 31, which banned access to gender-affirming care for transgender minors in South Dakota, the Transformation Project Advocacy Network (the image above comes from the organization’s Facebook page) proudly throws its support behind Senate Bill 216.

Entitled “An Act to modify provisions related to prohibited medical interventions on minors,” SB 216 seeks to address the constraints imposed by HB 1080, advocating for collaborative decision-making between physicians and parents, with due consideration given to parental consent. 

The passage of HB 1080 forced transgender minors in South Dakota to seek gender-affirming care beyond state lines, burdening affected families with unnecessary challenges. The Transformation Project Advocacy Network firmly asserts that legislators should refrain from coming between the crucial patient-physician relationship and equally endorse the rights of parents to actively participate in medical decisions regarding their children. 

In a proactive move, Everett Moran, a legislative intern for the Transformation Project Advocacy Network, has embarked on creating a compelling mini-documentary. This documentary endeavors to capture the voices and experiences of individuals in South Dakota directly affected by the gender-affirming care ban, offering a poignant insight into the lives impacted by these legislative changes.

“This doc was an inspiration to work on because of all the stories that showcased how resilient local community members are,” Moran said. “On behalf of TPAN, I am so grateful that we were able to provide a platform where families and advocates of equality could have their voices be heard. It is my hope that through media and storytelling, like this doc, that we can grow closer to one another and reach understanding and unity.”

Transgender youth in South Dakota, like all youth, have the best chance to thrive when they are supported and can get the doctor-prescribed medical care they need when they need it, which is supported by the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, as well as other leading medical authorities.

Politicians in our state put the well-being of transgender youth at risk with this dangerous law. Being a kid is hard enough. We don’t need politicians making it even harder for kids who are transgender in our state, but that’s what they did in 2023. SB 216 is a chance to make their lives a little less difficult, and we urge legislators to do so.

The Transformation Project Advocacy Network calls upon legislators to thoughtfully consider the human impact of such policies, urging a prioritization of the well-being of transgender minors in South Dakota. The organization advocates for a considerate and compassionate approach that respects individual rights, acknowledges the expertise of medical professionals, and recognizes the crucial role of parents in guiding their children's healthcare decisions. 

The documentary’s director, Everett Moran will be hosting a showing of the documentary at 5 p.m. today (Saturday, Feb. 3) at the Prism Community Center, 500 N. Western Ave. in Sioux Falls, followed by a letter-writing party to write legislators and urge them to pass SB 216. All are welcome to attend.

Susan Williams of Sioux Falls is the founder and executive director of the Transformation Project. The organization’s commitment is to advocate for the rights of transgender individuals in South Dakota. Contact her at susan@transadvocacysd.org.