Comment Submitted by Erin McCleary
AnonymousOpposeIndividual
Summary: Erin K. McCleary, a licensed mental health professional, opposes the proposed revisions to the Equal Access Rule. She argues that the changes would remove critical protections for transgender, nonbinary, and intersex individuals, potentially leading to discrimination and unsafe housing conditions.
I am writing to strongly oppose the proposed changes to the Equal Access Rule issued by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This proposal would remove critical protections that ensure fair and equal access to housing and services, particularly for transgender, nonbinary, and intersex people. By redefining “sex” in a restrictive way and allowing providers to require documentation or proof, the rule opens the door to discrimination, denial of services, and unsafe conditions for people seeking housing assistance.
As a licensed mental health professional who sees and treats many members of the LGBTQ community, the compounding stresses on these communities far outweigh those in the general population. Removing these protections will be an added stressor that could have far-reaching consequences. Please deeply consider the dignity and worth of all before acting.
Sincerely,
Erin K. McCleary