In a recent interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Tesla CEO Elon Musk made controversial statements regarding his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson. During the discussion aired on Monday, Musk claimed that after receiving gender-affirming care, his daughter was “killed,” and he expressed a strong desire to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
Musk referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” criticizing the medical options available to minors. He revealed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, his daughter came out as transgender at the age of 16 and that he felt pressured to consent to the medical procedures due to concerns for her mental health.
He expressed regret for signing documents related to his daughter’s care, stating that he felt deceived and insufficiently informed about the implications of puberty blockers. Musk asserted that he has essentially lost his son, pointing out a term called “deadnaming” that refers to the process of referring to a transgender person by their birth name.
Musk’s remarks come in the wake of his decision to relocate his businesses, including Tesla and SpaceX, to Texas, citing opposition to California’s legislation known as AB1955, or the SAFETY Act. This law restricts parental notifications in schools regarding students identifying as transgender and mandates state support for LGBTQ+ youth. Recently, Musk has faced criticism for perceived transphobic remarks.
Vivian Jenna Wilson’s transition has been marked by her legal name change and her desire to sever ties with her father, whom she believes has contributed to an environment of misunderstanding regarding her identity.
Despite Musk’s declarations aligning him with right-wing viewpoints, particularly on issues like gender identity and the oil industry, it is noteworthy that the conversation surrounding gender-affirming care remains complex and contentious, involving deep-seated perspectives on identity, healthcare, and parental rights.
This discussion underscores the ongoing dialogue about the effects of gender-affirming care and the importance of understanding diverse perspectives. As society continues to evolve in its comprehension of gender identity, the hope remains for continued support and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of their gender identities or personal struggles.