West Tennessee ELCA Synod endorses transgender youth following Supreme Court decision rejecting gender-affirming treatment
In a 6-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favour of Tennessee's ban on gender-affirming care for transgender and nonbinary youth in the case of U.S. v. Skrmetti. This ruling permits similar bans in 25 other states where an estimated 39.4% of trans youth live.
Amidst this controversial decision, various religious communities and advocacy groups have stepped forward to express their support for transgender youth and their families. The Diocese of West Tennessee and the Southeastern Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America released a pastoral letter, affirming their commitment to stand with trans youth.
The letter lists four commitments: praying for trans youth, working to understand practical inclusivity, supporting organisations for trans people, and proclaiming God's love for all. The Diocese and Synod emphasised that God's justice is not bound by human institutions or court decisions, and they expressed their support for transgender, gender non-binary, and gender fluid individuals.
Shireen Korkzan, a reporter and assistant editor for our website, can be reached at [email protected] for more information.
Meanwhile, TransEpiscopal, a group advocating for inclusive church policies, released a statement calling on Episcopalians to stand with them in response to United States v. Skrmetti. The statement drew inspiration from the Bible, referencing struggles against spiritual forces of evil and the visibility of Jesus' risen life in our bodies.
Several independent studies conducted by professional medical organizations find that access to gender-affirming care improves the mental health of trans and nonbinary youth, reducing depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. However, recent politics have negatively impacted the well-being of young LGBTQ+ people, with 90% reporting such an impact, according to The Trevor Project.
The Trevor Project's data also reveals that young LGBTQ+ people who live in "very accepting" communities attempt suicide at less than half the rate of those who live in "very unaccepting" communities. Consequently, 45% of trans and nonbinary people or their families have considered moving to a different state due to LGBTQ+-related politics and legislation.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee and other legal groups have sued the state on behalf of a Nashville couple and their 15-year-old trans daughter, a Memphis-based doctor, and two other anonymous plaintiffs. The Lutheran Church of the Reformation held a gender-affirming care rally on June 18, 2025, in response to the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling upholding Tennessee's ban.
Out of 940 anti-trans bills introduced in 49 states so far in 2025, 115 have already passed, and 729 cases remain active. Despite these challenges, it is heartening to see religious communities and advocacy groups rallying their support for transgender youth and their families.
On a more concerning note, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration announced that the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline will no longer offer the "Press 3 option" for LGBTQ+ youth-specific services. This decision could potentially worsen the mental health crisis faced by young LGBTQ+ people.
As we navigate these challenging times, it is crucial to remember that every human being is created in the image of God and is therefore deserving of dignity, respect, and love. Let us continue to support and uplift our transgender youth and their families.
For more updates and information, please follow our website or contact Shireen Korkzan at [email protected].
