Tennessee’s ban on certain medical treatments for transgender youth is causing families to make difficult decisions. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing a legal challenge to this ban.
Tennessee’s ban on certain medical treatments for transgender youth is putting pressure on families to make difficult decisions. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing a legal challenge to this ban.
The ban has had a significant impact on the everyday lives of children and teenagers who are transgender, as it has affected their typical adolescent experiences.
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Written by Emily Cochrane
Writing from the city
Some families left their homes and schools quickly after Tennessee prohibited gender-transition care for their children. Others decided to stay, making sacrifices such as reducing vacation and holiday expenses to travel out of state for medical appointments.
Some people who have chosen to remain in Tennessee have not completely dismissed the idea of moving away 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 favor of the ban, which was enacted last year, could negatively impact the care their children receive. This comes at a time when the incoming Trump administration has promised to impose restrictions on transgender individuals.
Kristen Chapman, who moved from Tennessee with her teenage daughter after the law was enacted, explained that living under such circumstances forces you to adapt to a new way of life. It feels like a crisis has struck your family, altering your sense of normalcy and wellbeing.
Five families and three children agreed to participate in interviews on the condition of anonymity due to fears of retaliation and ongoing harassment.
In my opinion, if your child confides in you about their identity and needs, it is your responsibility as a parent to provide them with support.
Kristen Chapman
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