"Trans epidemic" is a *particularly* cruel framing device in 2020

The concept of "eradication" is so close to the surface of this discussion it honestly leaves a cold, hard lump in my belly

Queerness and the metaphor of plague are always closely linked in the public consciousness, but notice how "epidemic" is a very slight rhetorical adjustment from "plague." It suggests dispassionate treatment, extreme measures, existential threat.

"Plague" implies a degree of powerlessness, an act of God. "Epidemic" is very human and very clinical. It implies ways of knowing, and ways of treating. It is so easy to make Foucauldian notions of disciplining unhealthy bodies painfully literal if this is the starting point.

"Trans epidemic" is a phrase that suggests—perhaps endorses—real and immediate harm on queer youth. Every author, newspaper, pundit, and politician that uses it has blood on their hands.

It's also a phrase designed to exhaust you, dear ally. The traumatic response you feel from merely reading words like "epidemic" is a real one, and the rhetorical link created with "trans" is one designed to erode your good will. It's weaponized COVID trauma.