Over 500 people came out to protest the discriminatory decision by Lurie Children's Hospital to stop providing gender affirming surgical care for its transgender and gender expansive patients. While the snow came down, we had important discussions about the right to medical care, the impact of the sudden reversal of care, and the fear of continued restrictions on trans rights.

We were especially honored by the number of families that came to the event. The atmosphere was invigorating and powerful, while remaining family friendly. Many of the children brought homemade signs and excitedly waved trans flags that were handed out during the event.

The protest was emceed by Asher McMaher and our teen speaker, Noella Bella (youngest out trans person to walk in both New York and Paris fashion week, and a patient whose care was denied at Lurie's Gender Clinic). Speakers included Mel Tully from Chicago Democratic Socialists of America, Dr Corey Blake from the Chicago Teachers Union, Channyn Lynne Parker from Brave Space Alliance, Tanya whose child's care has been impacted by the executive order, and Charlee Friedman from Trans Up Front.

Trans Up Front was honored to partner with with Indivisible Chicago, Equality Illinois, and the Chicago Democratic Socialists of America to host the protest. The protest was also endorsed by the Gay Liberation Network, Illinois Parents & Caregivers of Transgender & Gender Expansive Individuals, 48th Ward Neighbors for Justice, Buffalo Grove Pride, Brace Space Alliance, WORTHy Youth Community, Chicago Teachers Union, Socialist Alternative, Organizing White Men for Collective Liberation, Chicago Abortion Fund, and Gender Affirming Evanston.

Media coverage:

Block Club Chicago: Hundreds Protest Lurie Children's Hospital's Pause of Gender-Affirming Surgeries

WBEZ Chicago: Hundreds Gather Outside Lurie Children's Hospital to Protest Youth Gender Care Change

Chicago Sun Times: Hundreds Gather Outside Lurie Children's Hospital to Protest Youth Gender Care Change: 'I Want My Healthcare.'

WGN: Protesters Rally Outside Lurie Children's Hospital Over Halt in Gender-Affirming Surgeries

Windy City Times: Hundreds Protest Lurie Children's Hospital's Pause on Gender-Affirming Surgeries for Youth

Hoodline: Chicago Protesters Rally Against Lurie Children's Hospital's Pause on Gender-Affirming Surgeries Following Executive Order