Tennessee’s ban on certain medical treatments for transgender youth is causing difficult decisions for families with transgender children. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing a legal challenge to this ban.
Tennessee’s ban on certain medical treatments for transgender youth is causing difficult decisions for families. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing a legal challenge to this ban.
The ban has had a significant impact on children and teenagers, as it has disrupted their typical adolescent experiences by adding the additional layer of being transgender.
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Written by Emily Cochrane
Writing from the city
Some families decided to leave immediately after Tennessee prohibited gender-transition care for their children, while others stayed behind and made sacrifices in order to travel out of state for necessary doctor appointments. This included cutting back on expenses like vacations and Christmas spending.
Some residents who have chosen to remain in Tennessee are still considering the option of relocating in the future.
Families are feeling immense pressure as the Supreme Court considers a challenge to a Tennessee law. They are concerned that a decision in support of the ban, implemented last year, could worsen the already limited care available for their children. This worry is heightened by the promised restrictions on transgender rights by the incoming Trump administration.
Kristen Chapman, who moved away from Tennessee with her teenage daughter after the law was enacted, explained that dealing with a situation where there are no good choices forces you to adapt to a new way of living. It’s like experiencing a family tragedy, as it alters your sense of self and comfort in your surroundings.
Five families of parents and three children agreed to be interviewed on the condition of anonymity due to fears of retaliation and ongoing harassment.
In my opinion, when your child opens up to you about their identity and needs, it is your responsibility as a parent to show them understanding and support.
The name Kristen Chapman
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