The Texas order will not prevent gender transitioning or affirming procedures — which Abbott defines as “child abuse.” Instead, this will lead to more devastating consequences.

Pitt hosted the event “To Be Oneself” on Wednesday afternoon, which focused on ways the University can take action to support transgender students, faculty and staff and how everyone can support Pittsburgh’s trans community, specifically trans people of color.

The recent increase in anti-trans legislation is harmful and a step backward for America in acknowledging and accepting the LGBTQ+ community. Trans people need access to health care just as much as any cisgender person does, if not more, and their needs must be respected just like anyone else’s.