Elliot Page is speaking out to help protect the rights of trans youth in Texas.
The Juno actor, who came out as transgender in 2020, said he is "horrified" after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton issued a written opinion on Feb. 21 defining gender-affirming care, such as hormone therapy and puberty blockers, as child abuse under state laws.
A day after Ken's opinion was released, Gov. Greg Abbott showed his support by issuing a directive for the state's child welfare agency to launch "prompt and thorough investigations" into reports of "gender-transitioning procedures."
Elliot, who has become one of Hollywood's most prominent trans figures, condemned the move. In a statement to E! News, the Umbrella Academy actor said, "I am horrified by the inhumane and downright dangerous declarations by the Texas Governor and Attorney General. Trans youth deserve gender-affirming care and to be able to live their true, authentic selves without fear and oppression. I stand with trans youth and their families."
And Elliot wasn't alone in speaking out against the new anti-trans order. Gabrielle Union, whose 14-year-old stepdaughter Zaya Wade came out as transgender in February 2020, also slammed the Texas governor.
"This is where we are," the Bring It On actress tweeted Feb. 22. "We shot past dangerous and horrific a long time ago. The rubber has hit the road so who is standing shoulder to shoulder in this fight? Who truly gives a shit and whose on that performative bs? Let's see."
Kerry Washington echoed Gabrielle's sentiments and tweeted that the new anti-trans order was "horrific," adding, that her "heart goes out to the entire Trans community of Texas and their families. Texas, this is happening in your state. Now is the time to use your voice and your VOTE."