We are deeply saddened by today’s Supreme Court ruling on US v. Skmetti that upholds Tennessee’s prohibition on gender-affirming medical care for minors. This decision may have far reaching long term implications.
Right now though, we are focused on those affect right now this moment. On the LGBT National Youth Talkline we talk with young people every day who are affected by decisions like today’s ruling. Today young people are hurting.
Today we all should take a moment to double down on our convictions to support and uplift the lives and voices of young trans and non-binary people. And if you are a young trans or non-binary person, you are seen, you are valid, and we are ashamed that you even have to deal with any of this. What came down today is not right or just. It is cruel and hurtful.
This decision, what is it saying to our young people? It’s telling them they are thought and seen as less than. They are being told their intimate knowledge about themselves is worthless. They are being told that their lived experiences are not valid.
That’s simply not true.
Everyone who has come to an understanding of their identity and wishes to move forward deserves to have access knowledgable gender-affirming care. Young trans and non-binary people deserve to be able to continue their journey of self determination. It is shameful that there are those who have made decisions on their behalf without their consent.
We hope that the rest of the LGBTQ+ community nationwide continue to stand with each other, offer support, care and love for each other and that allies stand with the community on not letting actions like this stand.
And know that there are those who are continuing to put up a fight in court and there are those organizations and individuals that continue to provide vital support, aid and care to those affect by today’s decision.
Our dedicated peer support is here for you. Free and confidential.
LGBT National Youth Talkline
800-246-7743
or through keyboard based online 1-to-1 conversations: lgbthotline.org/chat
Moderated youth chatrooms: lgbthotline.org/youthchatrooms
