What are puberty blockers and why do we need to fight the decision to ban them?

a collaborative resource by Ellen Jones and Wednesday Holmes

and

Dec 12, 2024

Yesterday, the 11th of December, the Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced that the ban on puberty blockers - initially introduced by a singular Conservative politician just hours before parliament was dissolved this summer - would be extended indefinitely.

Put simply, this healthcare for transgender young people would be banned. This is not a case of the medication being harmful - children who are not trans will still be able to access it and there is over 40 years worth of evidence of the medications being used.

My friend & fellow community organiser Wednesday Holmes decided to put together this resource rather than sinking into despair, which we have shared online and now have also developed into a zine to be distributed.

If you are an organisation which would like to purchase these zines (which covers the cost of manufacturing and postage), please email Wednesdaycommunityart@gmail.com.

1. An illustration with the text "What are puberty blockers and why do we need to fight the decision to ban them," on a purple and pink background. Below is a byline that reads "By Ellen Jones & Wednesday Holmes." Surrounding elements include flowers, butterflies, and LGBTQ+ pride symbols. The borders display patterned designs and phrases like "Protect our community" and "Protect trans youth”

2. A green background illustration with the text "Puberty blockers are used to delay puberty. For trans+ young people, they give them space and time to understand their identity, access support, and decide if they would like to transition further." The bottom features a pink caterpillar transforming into a butterfly. The border contains decorative patterns and affirming phrases like "Protect our community."

A lavender background illustration stating, "They are also used for non-trans young people who go through puberty too young and for some cancer treatments. We have used these medications safely for 40 years. They will be continue to be used for people who are not trans.” Decorative motifs include flowers, butterflies, and pride symbols.

A blue background illustration with the text "The ban on puberty blockers was rushed through by a Conservative politician. It has now been extended and extended again by Wes Streeting, a gay man. Wes Streeting’s funding is ⅔ from private healthcare organisations and those with links to private healthcare. ". Decorative elements include flowers, butterflies, and a stylized drawing of a politician. The borders feature colorful patterns and affirming messages.

An illustration with pink and green backgrounds, featuring the text "This is a step towards restricting the existence of trans people, full stop. It’s rooted in the idea that if we stop young trans people from having support, they will become cis”. A pencil draws a cross over the trans symbol.

A yellow background illustration with the text "We will fight to protect trans people!" surrounded by suggestions like "Support trans+-centered community initiatives," "Call & email your MP," and "Act up, get loud”, Listen & support trans+ voices” Support trans+ activists”. The artwork includes flowers, butterflies, and pride symbols. The borders display bright patterns and phrases such as "Protect trans youth."

A guest post by

Wednesday Holmes

Activist illustrator & Author| ND, butch non binary dyke | dreaming of queer anarchist futures 🌱🐌 | they/them | get my art & zines at www.mygaylittleshop.com

What are puberty blockers and why do we need to fight the decision to ban them?

a collaborative resource by Ellen Jones and Wednesday Holmes

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