The families of transgender children in Tennessee are facing difficult decisions due to the state’s ban on certain medical treatments for transgender youth. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing a legal challenge to this ban.
Tennessee’s ban on certain medical care for transgender youth is causing families of transgender children to make difficult decisions. The Supreme Court is set to hear a legal challenge to the ban on Wednesday.
The ban has had a significant impact on the lives of young people who are transgender, overshadowing their typical experiences as adolescents.
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Written by Emily Cochrane
Writing from the city
Some families quickly left Tennessee after the state banned gender-transition care for their children, leaving their homes and schools behind. Other families decided to stay, sacrificing vacations and holiday spending to travel out of state for their children’s medical appointments.
Some individuals who have chosen to remain in Tennessee have not completely dismissed the idea of relocating in the future.
Families are feeling extremely anxious as the Supreme Court reviews a challenge to a Tennessee law. They are worried that if the ban is upheld, it could put their children’s care at risk, especially with the new Trump administration promising to impose more restrictions on transgender individuals.
Kristen Chapman, who moved out of Tennessee with her teenage daughter after the law was enacted, expressed that constantly having to explain that she didn’t have a choice and that there were no good options forces her to adopt a different mindset. She likened the experience to a natural disaster occurring within her family, altering her sense of self and comfort.
Five families and three children agreed to participate in interviews anonymously due to fears of facing backlash or ongoing harassment.
In my opinion, if your child opens up to you about their identity and needs, it is your responsibility as a parent to show them your support.
Name of person:
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