For Immediate Release: February 4, 2025
Contact: press@socialists.nyc

Thousands of New Yorkers Rally to Protect Trans Kids’ Healthcare

Speakers & allies demand NYU Langone stand up for vulnerable patients & CEO Robert Grossman reverse policy denying life-saving care for trans youth 

NEW YORK, NY — On Monday, an estimated 3,000 New Yorkers joined elected officials, medical professionals, NYU workers, trans organizers, and trans youth and families to rally demanding NYU Langone and CEO Robert Grossman commit to restoring life-saving gender-affirming care for trans patients. 

On January 29th the Trump administration publicized an executive order seeking to forcibly detransition all Americans under the age of 19. Though none of the order’s provisions have an immediate impact on the ability to receive or provide care, CEO Grossman directed NYU Langone to begin cancelling gender-affirming care appointments for trans patients. This makes NYU Langone one of the few hospitals in the country that has begun needlessly withholding vital care for trans patients. 

Contrary to the many falsehoods in Trump’s executive order, gender-affirming care is well-studied and supported by every major medical association in the country. Rally speakers noted that CEO Grossman’s decision to deny these important medical services compromises the hospital system’s integrity and its responsibility to prioritize the health and well-being of all its patients. They also warned this policy will directly endanger trans patients by cutting off their healthcare and medication, and makes NYU Langone complicit in the Trump administration’s attacks on New Yorkers’ health, safety, and fundamental rights. 

Rally organizers are also encouraging New Yorkers to send emails to NYU Langone Trustees & CEO Grossman urging leadership to reverse the decision. They noted that trans New Yorkers are a protected class under New York state law, characterizing Trump’s executive order as an authoritarian attempt to override established law by fiat. Before dispersing, speakers and supporters vowed to continue pressure on NYU Langone and to continue defending the rights of trans New Yorkers and their families whatever federal attacks may come. 

Audio/visuals available here, additional available upon request: 
Photos, video of rally attendees in St. Vartan Park; speakers; individual signs

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