He Came to Support a Ban on Trans Healthcare—Then Had a Change of Heart
It’s common for people to take a stance on issues based on what they’ve been told by those around them—family, friends, or political groups—without truly understanding the people impacted. Many are persuaded to fight against something they don’t fully comprehend, assuming they already have all the answers. But Mr. Larry showed us what’s possible when someone chooses to listen, learn, and remain open to change.
At a Wisconsin State Assembly hearing for Assembly Bill 104, which aimed to prohibit gender-affirming medical care for individuals under 18, hours of testimony filled the room. Among those present was Mr. Larry Jones, who arrived that day intending to support the bill. But as he listened to testimony after testimony—stories from parents, doctors, and transgender individuals—his perspective began to shift.
When it was finally his turn to speak, instead of advocating for the bill as he had planned, Mr. Larry did something unexpected. He took a deep breath, walked to the microphone, and with humility, offered an apology.
His full testimony:
“First of all, I'd like to apologize to you people. I was invited here to give my support for Bill 104. I have very little knowledge of gay people and things like that there. So when I came here, my eyes were open. I was one of the critics that sat on the side and made the decisions there was only two genders. So I got an education that was unbelievable. And I don't know just exactly how to say this, but my perspective for people has changed... So I don't want to take no more of your time, so I apologize for being here, and I learned a very lot about this group of people.”
His words were raw, unpolished, and entirely sincere. In a space where ideological lines often seem immovable, Mr. Larry demonstrated that minds—and hearts—can change. His simple yet profound statement was met with quiet astonishment, and then, something even more powerful: understanding.
Too often, debates around LGBTQ+ rights are painted as battles between unwavering opponents, but Mr. Larry’s testimony is proof that dialogue still matters. It reminds us that people do not have to remain locked in their initial beliefs, that exposure to real stories can shift perspectives, and that it is never too late to grow.
His moment of reflection and courage is not just a singular event—it’s a reminder to all of us. If someone like Mr. Larry, who came in prepared to support a bill restricting care for trans youth, can change his mind after truly listening, then perhaps there is hope for more hearts to open. Maybe, just maybe, change begins when we stop speaking long enough to hear the truth in someone else’s voice.
Mr. Larry didn’t just leave the hearing as the same person who walked in—he left as someone transformed by empathy. And that is the power of listening.
Looking for more ways to advocate for trans youth? Check out our Protect Trans Youth page for allyship opportunities
