Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently expressed strong views regarding his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson. Musk suggested that his daughter was “killed” in a metaphorical sense after she received gender-affirming care, and he vowed to combat what he refers to as the “woke mind virus.”
Musk labeled gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” stating that he was unaware of the implications when documents were signed for his child’s gender-affirming treatment during the pandemic. His comments indicated that he felt misled and expressed anguish over his daughter’s transition, which she began at age 16.
The CEO criticized practices involving minors receiving such care, stating that these actions occur at ages below the legal consent threshold. He mirrored Peterson’s sentiments on the matter, calling the promotion of these procedures “incredibly evil” and suggested that advocates for these practices should face severe penalties. Musk claimed that he was unaware that puberty blockers could ultimately lead to sterilization, though experts note that these treatments do not directly affect fertility in all cases.
His comments come at a time when Musk is actively opposing California legislation related to transgender student rights, having announced plans for several of his companies to relocate to Texas. His daughter, in her quest for a name change last year, made it clear she wishes to sever ties with her father.
In recent years, Musk has shifted from his formerly moderate political stance to align more closely with right-wing views, supporting initiatives that resonate with more conservative audiences.
While Musk’s comments about his daughter reflect deep personal and familial tensions, discussions about gender-affirming care are complex and evoke strong reactions from many sides. It is vital to maintain a dialogue that respects individual experiences and choices, especially within the LGBTQ+ community.
Ultimately, the situation showcases the importance of open and respectful conversations around gender identity and parental rights, highlighting the need for compassionate understanding and support for those navigating these challenging topics.