The American Federation of Teachers, the nation's second‑largest teachers union with roughly 1.8 million members, adopted a resolution on July 19 supporting access to gender‑affirming care across all stages of life.
The resolution, titled “Protecting Medical Research, Healthcare Access and Health Equity for LGBTQIA+ Communities,” calls for the union to engage in litigation, amicus briefs, and other legal advocacy to defend such care and challenge what it describes as unlawful discrimination in healthcare programs.
It also urges the expansion of federal collection of sexual orientation and gender identity data for public health research.
The move comes amid recent restrictions on gender transition procedures for minors that were implemented during the Trump administration.
The union’s president, known for her left‑wing advocacy, declined to comment on the resolution after it was announced.
Critics argue that the resolution could influence policies affecting young people and question whether it aligns with the preferences expressed in recent elections.
Supporters contend that the resolution seeks to protect medical rights and promote equity for LGBTQIA+ students and communities.
The debate highlights broader tensions over educational and health policy decisions within the United States.
