Protest held against South Dakota’s Gender-affirming care ban going into effect

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Last Friday, a sense of urgency and determination filled the air at Van Eps Park in downtown Sioux Falls. A group of individuals, united by a common cause, gathered to raise their voices against the recently enacted House Bill 1080. This legislation, which took effect on July 1, imposes restrictions on specific medical and surgical interventions for minor patients.

Amazing speakers stepped forward, including youth like Wyatt Daniels! We also heard from: Samantha Chapman of the ACLU. Dylan Daniels who is a nurse and father. Elizabeth Broekemier spoke as the mother of a trans child. Representative Kameron Nelson spoke wearing his famous quote on his shirt, “I’m here, I’m queer, and I’m not leaving Pierre.”

Their words echoing through the crowd. Protestors held signs high, their messages advocating for compassion, understanding, and access to essential healthcare. One sign read “Trust Parents Not Politicians” and to accompany it, “Trust Doctors Not Politicians”. Together, they marched along Minnesota Avenue.

And so they marched—each step fueled by hope and resilience—toward a horizon where every child's right to affirm their identity is honored.

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