2024 Year in Review
In 2024, the Courage Coalition solidified its reputation as a fearless champion for advocacy, ethical reform, and the safeguarding of the vulnerable. With strategic public demonstrations, significant legal triumphs, global alliances, and a strong voice in public dialogue, the coalition injected urgency, evidence, and bravery into discussions typically mired in institutional silence and cultural discord. This year we not only tackled systemic issues head-on but also fostered a burgeoning community of advocates, providing them a platform to amplify their voices.
A Year of Bold Public Actions and Growing Membership
Public demonstrations became a defining feature of the Courage Coalition’s work in 2024. These protests were not just about visibility—they were about mobilizing a growing network of individuals who share the coalition’s vision. Each event attracted new members, gay men, lesbians, and bisexuals who had felt isolated or unheard in their concerns about gender medicine, pediatric care, and institutional accountability. Through these actions, we provided a platform for those looking to speak up, to act, and to be part of a larger movement.
The coalition’s year began with a demonstration at the Endocrine Society’s ENDO 2024, where members called for the organization to reexamine its guidelines for hormonal treatments in youth. This action engaged directly with practicing endocrinologists. We educated them on the problems with the Endocrine Society’s stance on pediatric transition.
Following this, the Courage Coalition turned its focus on the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). At the AAP National Conference and Exhibition, advocates challenged the organization’s stance on gender-affirming care, pushing for the inclusion of dissenting evidence and a more cautious approach. This was followed by a demonstration at the AAP’s national meeting in Orlando, where a robust turnout reflected the growing momentum behind the coalition’s cause. The keynote speech by Admiral Rachel Levine was disrupted as reported on by Ben Ryan. For many attendees, these events were not only moments of protest but also opportunities to connect with likeminded individuals and join the coalition’s expanding community.
The year’s public actions culminated in a powerful rally at the Supreme Court, where advocates gathered to raise critical questions about constitutional rights, parental authority, and the role of the judiciary in safeguarding vulnerable individuals. The Courage Coalition’s ability to mobilize at such a visible and impactful venue underscored its growing influence and organizational strength.
International Engagement: SEGM, Genspect and the LGB Alliance Conference
While much of our work focused on domestic institutions, the coalition also extended its advocacy to the international stage in 2024, joining critical conversations and actions in Europe.
A key moment came during the Society for Evidence-Based Gender Medicine (SEGM) conference, where whistleblower Jamie Reed participated for the second year in a row. SEGM has become an important hub for medical professionals seeking to promote cautious, science-driven approaches to gender medicine. Reed’s presence at the conference solidified her position as a credible and impactful voice for reform, with the Courage Coalition providing critical support and visibility for her advocacy.
Our European efforts continued with a significant speaking engagement at the LGB Alliance Conference. Both Jamie Reed and Ben Appel delivered talks that resonated deeply with the international audience. The event, however, was not without its disruptions. At the start of Jamie Reed’s speech, opponents of the coalition’s mission—often referred to as TRA activists—released crickets into the venue in an attempt to silence her. This bizarre and hostile act only underscored the contentiousness of the coalition’s message, yet Reed continued undeterred, embodying the very courage that defines the movement.
Through these engagements, the coalition built alliances with organizations and advocates across the globe, proving that the fight for evidence-based, ethical care transcends borders.
Landmark Legal Victories in Missouri and Ohio
Litigation was another arena in which the Courage Coalition made significant strides this year. The coalition played a pivotal role in two landmark cases that will have lasting implications for gender medicine and parental rights.
In Missouri, the coalition provided expert testimony in a case challenging medical protocols for youth experiencing gender dysphoria. This case represented a watershed moment, as the court considered concerns around informed consent, long-term outcomes, and parental oversight. Sara Stockton was an expert witness amplifying the voices of sidelined families and experts, helping to secure a decision prioritizing patient protections and ethical accountability.
Similarly, in Ohio, the coalition lent its expert witness to litigation that pushed back against policies seen as prioritizing ideology over medical caution. This victory reaffirmed the importance of balancing individual rights with rigorous evidence, further establishing the Courage Coalition as a trusted advocate in the legal landscape.
Media Influence and Collaborations
Throughout 2024, the Courage Coalition worked to reshape public discourse by engaging with media narratives and amplifying whistleblowers like Jamie Reed. Reed’s courageous decision to speak out about the questionable practices of a pediatric gender clinic became a focal point for the coalition’s advocacy, drawing attention to the urgent need for reform.
The coalition played a central role in influential media coverage, including Pamela Paul’s New York Times op-ed. The article, which sparked national debate, explored the ethical complexities of gender-affirming care and questioned why major medical institutions remain resistant to engaging with dissenting evidence. By participating in this conversation, the Courage Coalition ensured that concerns about transparency, safety, and long-term outcomes were brought to the forefront.
In addition, the coalition offered critical commentary on the Cass Review, an independent UK-based investigation into youth gender care. By contextualizing the review’s findings for a US audience, the coalition underscored the global significance of its mission and highlighted the need for cautious, evidence-based approaches to care.
Building a Community of Courage
Perhaps one of the most significant outcomes of the Courage Coalition’s work in 2024 was the community it fostered. At each public action, in courtrooms, and on international stages, individuals who had felt isolated or silenced found a place to gather, to speak, and to act. The coalition not only advocated for systemic change but also provided a home for those seeking to add their voices to the cause.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The Courage Coalition’s accomplishments in 2024—bold public actions, international collaborations, legal victories, and media influence—lay the foundation for an even more impactful year ahead. With a growing membership, strengthened alliances, and a clear vision, the coalition is poised to continue its fight for evidence-based, ethical care and systemic accountability.
As 2025 approaches, the Courage Coalition remains steadfast in its mission: to speak truth to power, to protect vulnerable individuals, and to provide a platform for those who have been silenced.
In a year defined by courage, resilience, and action, the coalition proved that meaningful change begins when individuals dare to stand together.
For continued updates and reflections, follow the Courage Coalition’s work on LGBT Courage Coalition Substack and other advocacy platforms.
So great to meet and stand with you all at Skrmetti. 2025 is going to be a great year of progress on this front. Happy New Year! The momentum is in our favor.
Brilliant work! Thank you so much for all you do!