Dear BALIF Members,
This morning, the Supreme Court issued an opinion in US v. Skrmetti, upholding the Tennessee ban on gender affirming care for minors. A link to the full opinion can be found here.
U.S. v. Skrmetti is one of the most consequential cases involving transgender rights to ever come before the Supreme Court. But the Supreme Court’s decision today is part of a larger story. Namely, transgender people across the country are facing an onslaught of attacks – political and otherwise – as the Trump administration and extremist politicians nationwide attempt to strip members of the community of their basic rights to workplace protections, health care, the use of accurate identification, and so much more. These dangerous efforts, which reflect a broader agenda of erasure and discrimination, must be denounced for what they are: ignorant, bigoted and hateful.
In December, several BALIF members attended the Skrmetti oral argument in person, and BALIF signed on to an amicus brief alongside many LGBTQIA+ organizations and Bar Associations. That amicus brief can be viewed here.
BALIF unequivocally supports transgender youth and the entire trans community. We stand in unwavering solidarity with the individuals and families most directly impacted by this decision, and with the trans community nationwide.
In the face of adversity, we remain steadfast in our pursuit of justice, equality and equity, and we will continue to use our collective voice, resources, and platform to defend the rights of trans youth and ensure their voices are heard.
Thank you and in solidarity,
BALIF Board