Laura Bryant Hanford and Erin Friday:
Even when courts determine no child abuse has occurred, children are being removed from homes through networks of runaway shelters and nonprofits. Nonfamilial adults are hiding children who are confused about their sex, and child-welfare departments extend investigations until the child turns 18, rendering the cases moot.
Many states permit or require that foster placements and residential facilities affirm a child’s “gender identity” and consent to medical interventions. That sends a message that the foster-care system offers an exit from parental authority.
The mantra offered to parents is no longer “would you rather have a dead daughter or a living son?” It is “would you rather lose custody of your child, or ‘transition’ her?” Sage Blair’s story is far from unique, and its ending is a relatively happy one.