Renowned in his field, Dr. Jake Kleinmahon, a gay specialist paediatric cardiologist, has departed Louisiana due to the state’s contentious anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. The introduction of a ‘Don’t Say Gay’ copycat bill, alongside a ban on gender-affirming care for trans youth, has compelled Kleinmahon and his family to seek a safer environment elsewhere. Once instrumental in bridging the gap for heart transplant patients in Louisiana, Kleinmahon’s departure underscores the implications of discriminatory laws on healthcare professionals and patients alike.
Kleinmahon’s decision to leave was cemented by the passing of the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill, which he deemed particularly concerning for LGBTQ+ families. He articulated the repercussions on children’s education, noting, “To think that if our kids went to public school and they were made fun of because they had two dads, the teacher would not be able to step in and make a learning experience about different types of families.”
In the wake of the legislature’s move to enact anti-LGBTQ+ bills, including a veto-overridden prohibition on gender-affirming care for trans youth, Kleinmahon’s departure unveils the potential trajectory of LGBTQ+ rights in Louisiana. He expressed sadness about leaving, yet emphasized the family’s choice to ensure their children’s freedom and ability to celebrate diversity.
Dr. Kleinmahon’s relocation to New York signifies a notable loss for Louisiana’s medical community, leaving only two specialist doctors in the state capable of conducting children’s heart transplants. As he embarks on his new role at Cohen Children’s Medical Center in Long Island, his departure serves as a poignant testament to the impact of legislation on medical professionals’ lives and the critical care they provide.
In a heartfelt farewell message to his beloved New Orleans, Kleinmahon conveyed both love and disappointment, attributing his departure to the state’s lack of support for his family. This departure, driven by the tides of intolerance, underscores the far-reaching consequences of discriminatory policies and the importance of upholding inclusivity and respect within society.