Clergy members across the United States are expressing their outrage and disappointment over current anti-trans laws, particularly those that target transgender children. Clergy members and faith leaders from various denominations have expressed solidarity with the transgender community, citing that the rules unfairly and unjustly target vulnerable populations.
Clergy are also raising awareness about how such laws can further marginalize minorities, perpetuating discrimination, and hate.
The new anti-trans laws threaten to deny transgender students access to education services, including sports participation and access to restroom facilities that match their gender identity. Clergy argues that this violates religious freedom and civil rights, mainly as it targets people who already face significant social stigma, potential bullying and harassment, and an increased risk of violence.
Clergy has noted that these laws can have dire consequences on young transgender people's mental health and well-being, exacerbating existing feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.
Gender-affirming care for minors has been a significant controversy in this debate. One side argues that medically transitioning a child to their preferred gender is child abuse, and the other insists that not transitioning a child to their preferred gender is child abuse.
More than half of U.S. states have proposed bills in some way restricting gender-affirming care for minors, and five so far have passed bills doing just that. Some states – Texas, Missouri, Oklahoma – have introduced upwards of 20 bills that in some way restrict the rights of trans people this year.
In some communities, local clergy say they want to protect children from overzealous parents and doctors by legally preventing trans youth from transitioning until they reach 18.
But clergy members with trans children see firsthand the effect these bills have on their kids, and they're sounding the alarm.
In response to such damaging legislation, clergy have organized prayer vigils and marches to protest against such anti-trans policies. Clergy have also spoken up to support trans rights at churches nationwide, discussing why such legislation harms transgender youth. Clergy members have been vocal about advocating for inclusive policies that protect the rights of all citizens regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
Clergy are also encouraging others to stand with the transgender community and speak out against such oppressive policies. Clergy are making their voices heard, providing much-needed support to those who feel powerless in the face of discriminatory laws. With their efforts, clergy members hope that anti-trans laws can be repealed and replaced with more inclusive legislation that supports everyone in the United States.
But state lawmakers passing these bills say they’re doing it to protect children and that God is on their side.
Proponents of restricting gender-affirming care argue that transgender children will have every right to medically transition… when they’re 18.
“I am a man of faith, and I am a Christian, and I believe the Lord gives us free will,” explained MO. state Rep Justin Sparks in a legislative session. “And when you are above 18, you will have free will.”
Others argue that transgender identity is an affront to their religious freedom.
In sum, clergy nationwide have become vocal proponents for transgender rights and protections by standing up against anti-trans laws. Clergy views these laws as dangerous and highly detrimental to vulnerable populations within the transgender community, particularly young people.
Clergy have organized protests and prayer vigils, spoken up in churches about trans rights issues, and encouraged others to join them in their fight for justice and equality.
Clergy members are working hard to ensure that everyone in the United States is protected from discrimination and hatred, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
What is your reaction – do you foresee a resolution to these complicated questions? What is the best way forward?