This all started earlier this week, days before SF Pride was set to announce Twisted Sister's anthem "We're Not Gonna Take It" as this year's Pride anthem.
RELATED: San Francisco Pride addresses controversial tweet from musician Dee Snider
SF Pride addresses controversial tweet from musician Dee Snider
Snider reposted and commented in support of a tweet from KISS singer Paul Stanley that was considered transphobic.
"Dee Snider was not dropped from this year's San Francisco Pride celebration; it was a mutual decision after a productive, educational conversation with him," said Nguyen Pham, President of SF Pride.
Snider issued a statement Friday standing by his views on gender-affirming care for transgender youth.
"I've recently stated I do not believe young children are ready to decide their gender allocation. I believe their choices should be supported and accepted by their parents, but I do not think kids have the mental capabilities to make rational, logical decisions on things of a magnitude that will affect them for the rest of their lives," said Snider.
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Snider went on to say he is still an LGBTQIA+ ally.
"Like any ally, we're glad that Dee wants to continue learning about the issues that affect the transgender community. As a trans woman, I can tell you that no two stories are alike - this isn't a black-and-white conversation, which is why educating the public is so critical. By donating to SF Pride, you're creating a safer space for that scared trans child who was brave enough to stand up and tell the world who they really are - receiving the support they need from their parents, a medical professional, and their community," said Suzanne Ford, Executive Director of SF Pride.
Studies, including research in JAMA Surgery, have shown that gender-affirming care can be life-saving for transgender and nonbinary children and adolescents, promoting positive mental and physical health and well-being.
Several major national medical associations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Public Health Association, say that gender-affirming care is safe and effective. Some, like the American Medical Association, deem it "medically necessary."