Demand New Jersey Medical Institutions to Eliminate Newborn Sexuality Questions

The Issue

Speaking as a strongly concerned parent, I find it disconcerting and wholly inappropriate that medical institutions in New Jersey, such as Inspira and Advocare, consider a newborn's sexuality as a compulsory query on their medical forms. Bringing the concept of sexuality into the scope of a newborn's existence seems largely out of place and is a violation of their innocence – an aspect that should be most revered and protected.

This is not a matter that should lightly be ticked off by the parents nor is it indeed a matter of any relevance or urgency for any hospital or medical facility.

Sexuality is a deeply personal aspect, pertaining to the individual's emotional, romantic, and sexual attractions which can only be discerned at a much later developmental stage. It's profoundly irrational to attempt to label or predict a newborn's sexuality.

Moreover, according to the American Psychological Association, sexual orientation generally becomes apparent in adolescence or early adulthood, meaning any question about a newborn's sexuality is premature at best and propagates misinformation at worst.

In practice, it could have inadvertent harmful effects such as pressure to adhere to a certain designation or the potential for stigmatization as they grow older.

Let us urge the state of New Jersey to take swift action and eradicate this question from any and all medical forms, thereby ensuring the sanctity and innocence of our vulnerable newborns.

We appeal to your sense of justice and ask for your signature in support.

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The Issue

Speaking as a strongly concerned parent, I find it disconcerting and wholly inappropriate that medical institutions in New Jersey, such as Inspira and Advocare, consider a newborn's sexuality as a compulsory query on their medical forms. Bringing the concept of sexuality into the scope of a newborn's existence seems largely out of place and is a violation of their innocence – an aspect that should be most revered and protected.

This is not a matter that should lightly be ticked off by the parents nor is it indeed a matter of any relevance or urgency for any hospital or medical facility.

Sexuality is a deeply personal aspect, pertaining to the individual's emotional, romantic, and sexual attractions which can only be discerned at a much later developmental stage. It's profoundly irrational to attempt to label or predict a newborn's sexuality.

Moreover, according to the American Psychological Association, sexual orientation generally becomes apparent in adolescence or early adulthood, meaning any question about a newborn's sexuality is premature at best and propagates misinformation at worst.

In practice, it could have inadvertent harmful effects such as pressure to adhere to a certain designation or the potential for stigmatization as they grow older.

Let us urge the state of New Jersey to take swift action and eradicate this question from any and all medical forms, thereby ensuring the sanctity and innocence of our vulnerable newborns.

We appeal to your sense of justice and ask for your signature in support.

The Decision Makers

Philip Murphy
Former New Jersey Governor

Supporter Voices

Petition Updates