In a bold rejection of international pressure, Governor Greg Abbott of Texas is standing firm in the face of backlash over the state’s recent laws targeting LGBTQ individuals. Abbott disregarded claims that these new regulations violate federal and global human rights standards, including allegations brought to the United Nations regarding the infringement of LGBTQ rights in Texas.
In a direct and uncompromising response to the UN’s concerns, Governor Abbott boldly stated, “The UN can go pound sand.” This is not the first time Abbott has dismissed international criticism, as he previously exhibited a similar stance towards the UN on issues related to the state’s economy.
LGBTQ rights organizations, such as Equality Texas, GLAAD, the Human Rights Campaign, and the ACLU of Texas, joined forces in a collective effort to address the UN about the discriminatory legislative measures enacted in Texas. The groups highlighted the detrimental impact of laws signed by Abbott that restrict gender-affirming healthcare for minors and limit the participation of transgender athletes in school sports.
The joint letter to the UN condemned the seven specific bills signed into law by Governor Abbott, emphasizing that these measures collectively constitute a systematic assault on the rights and identities of LGBTQ individuals. Furthermore, the letter criticized the Texas state leadership for their actions prior to the legislative session, including Attorney General Ken Paxton equating gender-affirming medical care with child abuse.
Both the UN and LGBTQ advocacy groups have raised concerns about the increasing wave of anti-LGBTQ legislation in the United States, holding the Biden administration accountable for not taking stronger action to challenge these laws. As the debate continues, Governor Abbott remains resolute in his stance, unwavering in the face of international scrutiny.
