Joshua Jernigan: The truth about gender-affirming care for trans children

Light Work by Dear Patriarchy

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Welcome to the sixth episode of series 4, where we’re focusing on the educators, activists, and influencers who inspire and guide us.

In this week’s episode, we’re hosting the incredible Joshua Jernigan, a trans rights activist and philanthropist living in Charlotte, North Carolina. Josh started the GEN (Gender Education Network) organization which helps transgender and gender diverse kids aged 12 and younger. Josh is a born educator and is deeply passionate about ensuring every child has a safe and loving home to nurture their growing identities.
In this episode, we cover big topics: What does gender affirming care look like for kids 12 and younger? What do parents of gender diverse kids get tripped up by or stuck on when trying to educate themselves and support their kids? Josh expertly breaks these topics down and gives advice to parents and family members of gender diverse kids and also what gender diverse kids need in order to survive and thrive. We talked about the importance of trans kids having a consistent affirming, loving adult presence in their lives and how we all have it in us to be that person. With the rise of anti-trans policies being brought forward in the United States, the UK, and around the world, Josh shares his hopes for the future: That we all be cycle breakers for our children and parent our children in ways which are right for them, ignoring what doesn't fit or is outdated and dangerous. We hope this educational episode sparks your activism - trans and gender diverse kids need your voice!
How you can find Josh & GEN:

• Gender Education Network website (donation link at the top of the page!)
• GEN on Facebook

- Josh mentions the Gender Spectrum website during our conversation which is a fabulous resource for parents, educators, therapists, WHOEVER, to learn more about how to support the health & wellbeing of gender diverse children & teens.
- Continue the conversation by picking up our book Dear Patriarchy: The Gaslit Women's Guide to the (Corporate) World

• International orders
• North American orders

- Check out our website AND our new feminist merch collection

• Dear Patriarchy Podcast Website

- Please check out our "Feminism 101" suggested reading list here if you're at a loose end for a great read from an incredible female author.
- Find out more about Nubefy, the amazing artists behind the graphics we use, here.