Evidence Synthesis Methods Interest Group

Hi all,

You may or may not know that McMaster University has published several systematic reviews around trans heath commissioned and funded by the Society for Evidence-Based Gender Medicine (SEGM). SEGM is an American organization that commissions pseudoscience to undermine trans healthcare. SEGM is a hate group that has been identified as the "hub" of the anti-LGBTQ+ pseudoscience network by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC). These Systematic Reviews have been cited in Supreme Court decisions and other places (like the HHS's report on Gender Dysphoria.)

A grassroots campaign calling out these poor research practices, their widespread affects, and encouraging corrective actions began at McMaster, but they have also prepared an Open Letter that anyone can sign. They are collecting signatures until September 12. Sorry I wasn't able to post this information sooner!

Elizabeth

Thanks for raising this Elizabeth - it is really alarming to see systematic review research weaponized against vulnerable populations, including transgender youth and adults.
I'm encouraged and very grateful to see so many librarians signing the open letter! 
We have expertise in evidence synthesis research and - depending on our roles and workplace privileges - are well-placed to advocate for best practices in ES methods, especially data collection, to help ensure decisions around gender-affirming care are based on sound evidence, not political agendas.

You can see the statement from the publishers of the review here: Systematic reviews related to gender-affirming care  - Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (HEI) 
This was published August 14, and the university states that they no longer accept funding from SEGM. It would seem like your post implies that they have rescinded this policy. If so, that is really sad. 
It's always devastating to see how those in power use scientific inquiry to violate human rights.