 |
| Martin do Nascimento/ CalMatters |
Michael Shellenberger, known for his conservative views and criticisms of climate activism and gender identity politics, expresses strong concerns about a new law signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom. According to Shellenberger, the law prevents schools from informing parents when their children adopt a different gender identity, which he believes puts millions of children at risk of irreversible medical abuse.
Shellenberger argues that this legislation goes against the interests of children and parents, citing the recent ban on puberty blockers in the UK as a contrast. He highlights that pediatrician Hillary Cass, in a report commissioned by the British government, concluded that medical interventions such as puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones are unethical and can cause permanent harm.
Furthermore, Shellenberger mentions that, according to leaked documents from WPATH, these medical interventions can result in sterilization and loss of sexual function, which he asserts children and adolescents are not mature enough to comprehend and consent to. He believes Newsom's law facilitates the possibility for activists to convince children they were born in the wrong body and hide this "social transition" from parents, leading to harmful medical treatments.
Shellenberger emphasizes the importance of schools immediately notifying parents if their children express gender dysphoria, a diagnosable psychiatric condition, to ensure they receive necessary support. He concludes that legislative, judicial, or electoral efforts will be necessary to overturn this law and protect the rights of children and parents in California.
Support Independent Journalism
Your support is crucial. Help us continue our investigative reporting.