Dear Reader,
The recent federal executive orders create new challenges for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking safe and affirming healthcare. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and their implications:
- Loss of Transgender Protections: The federal government now reduces identity to a rigid male-female binary, erasing transgender and nonbinary individuals. This policy threatens access to life-saving care by opening the door for Medicaid and Medicare to deny gender-affirming services.
- Reduced Protections Against Discrimination: Changes to the Affordable Care Act weaken protections that prohibit healthcare discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. This means insurers may deny coverage for essential LGBTQ+-specific services, leaving many patients with few options.
- Elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs: Federal funding for DEI initiatives, which help address systemic inequities in healthcare, has been eliminated. This reduces critical resources for organizations like Identity that focus on equitable care for underserved populations.
Why This Matters for Alaskans
These policy changes don’t just affect LGBTQ+ individuals nationally—they have profound implications for Alaskans:
- Limited Access: LGBTQ+ individuals in Alaska already face significant challenges due to provider shortages and the high cost of care. These new policies will further restrict access to affirming healthcare, making it even harder for many to receive the services they need.
- Behavioral Health Strain: Discrimination and systemic inequities are known to increase mental health challenges, which these policies will only worsen.
By staying informed about these changes, you’re standing with Identity as a vital resource for equitable care in Alaska. Your understanding and support help ensure that we can meet the increased demand these policies create.
How You Can Help
In moments like this, your support is more than a donation—it’s a statement. By giving to Identity, you are ensuring that every individual has access to affirming care, even in the face of systemic challenges.
Your generosity powers our ability to meet this moment, to adapt and lead, and to show that equitable healthcare isn’t just possible—it’s essential.
Thank you for being a part of this critical work. Together, we will continue to ensure that no one is left behind.
With gratitude,
Tom Pittman
Executive Director
