Speaking in the nation’s capital, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said that her recently announced transgender policies partly stem from detrans horror stories where vulnerable youth were led to make highly regrettable and irreversible decisions to their bodies.
The Premier told reporters she was influenced by the UK’s Tavistock Centre saga, a gender clinic that was forced to shut down after a review found it was reckless in prescribing puberty blockers to vulnerable teenagers. Smith said she was moved by the story of Kiera Bell, a detransitioned woman who later sued the clinic for not protecting her while conducting experimental treatment with life-altering outcomes.
Between 2010 and 2020, 382 children aged six and under were referred to Britain’s infamous transgender services, some of whom were as young as three years old.
No word from Poilievre
Addressing inquiries about discussions with federal counterparts and other premiers regarding the policies, Smith clarified that no such conversations had occurred.
However, she expressed hope that Alberta’s initiatives might inspire similar reflections and actions elsewhere.
Smith also addressed criticism and concerns surrounding the policies, particularly regarding their potential impact on youth. She underscored the importance of family support and comprehensive counseling to ensure well-considered decisions by young individuals contemplating gender transition.
“I want to make sure that young people are not closing off options to themselves prematurely,” Smith said.
The debate on parental involvement in their children’s pronouns been reignited after Smith released a video on X where she introduced new policies surrounding gender ideology, trans people, or those who think they are trans.
Alberta’s trans policies meant to protect vulnerable kids, parental rights, women’s sports
L:ast week, the Alberta Premier announced two pronoun policies: for students 15 and under, parents must consent to pronoun changes; for 16-17-year-olds, parents must be informed of the changes.
Another related policy announcement was a ban on hormone therapy / puberty blockers for youth 15 and under (other than those who have already started).
Smith further said that parental notification and an opt-in requirement by parents is required if teachers intend to give formal instruction on gender identity, sexual orientation or human sexuality.
Moreover, the Premier said that ministry approval is needed for all third-party resource materials that woke teachers and school boards have infiltrated into K-12 schools.
Finally, Smith said the UCP will work with sporting organizations to ensure women and girls are able to participate in a women’s only division.
