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Dear Editor, The 2023-2024 Minnesota Legislature and the Governor is controlled by the DFL. For some reason, legislation passed and signed has touched and changed almost every part of government including the state flag. One of the actions taken was amending a state statute allowing courts to remove custody of children from parents that have denied their children access to gender transition services. Minnesota is now a sanctuary state for medical gender transitions for minors.
The topic of sex change and gender identity is complex and controversial, and many wonder if it’s appropriate to discuss it with grade school children. While it’s important to be open and honest with children about the world around them, there are several reasons why sex change discussions should be reserved for older audiences.
Firstly, children’s minds are fragile and impressionable, and they may not have the emotional maturity or the cognitive capacity to fully comprehend the concept of sex change. Discussions about sex change and gender identity can be confusing and intimidating to young children, and it may lead to uncertainty, anxiety, and even trauma.
Secondly, sex change discussions may conflict with the values and beliefs of some families, leading to tension, confusion, and dissent. Children are in a crucial stage of development, and such discussions can lead to a contradiction with their parents and social environment.
Finally, it’s important to let children be children. They have other issues to deal with, such as school, homework, making friends, and developing social skills. Children should be focusing on their hobbies, interests, and personalities and build their growth and development.
While it’s important to create a safe and accepting environment for children to learn about the world around them, sex change discussions should be reserved for older audiences. It is important for children to learn about sex education and puberty, but it should be age-appropriate and communicated in a way that respects and complements their young minds.
Chuck Novak Ely Mayor Emeritus Ely, MN
