“Everywhere in this world trans folks exist and it is our responsibility to support and love them”
BY SARAH KENNELLY, IMAGE BY PEACOCK
Nyad star Annette Bening spoke in defence of trans rights at a Supreme Court rally on Thursday (5 December). The star, who has a trans son, delivered a moving speech on the steps of the court as justices heard oral arguments for United States v. Skrmetti.
The legal battle marks one of the most important cases for trans rights ever heard in American history. It asks whether transphobic discrimination constitutes a violation of the constitution. But Conservative justices appear ready to uphold Tennessee’s laws which bans gender-affirming healthcare for transgender youth.
This will set a dangerous legal precedent for similar laws to be enacted across the country, restricting access to hormonal therapy for queer children. The decision, which is expected in June, will follow 26 states that have passed bans on gender-affirming healthcare affecting 39.4% of trans minors, according to the HRC.
Bening dubbed trans rights the “civil rights issue of our era” in a powerful address to the crowds gathered outside of the court. She also spoke in support of her son who she described as: “A remarkable trans man, an extraordinary human being.”
She said: “As a well-meaning parent, I didn’t always know how to support my teenager – my vulnerable teenager who was just trying to live his truth – but you know what? I learned.”
“I learned that what these kids and families need is judicious counselling, sound medical advice and an atmosphere of calm and love and acceptance,” she added.
In the emotional speech, she encouraged those who are suspicious of trans people to become allies: “Trans folks are everywhere. They’re your doctors in your emergency rooms. They’re your firefighters. They’re your teachers, your librarians, the store clerks, the clerks in the bookstores. Everywhere in this world trans folks exist and it is our responsibility to support and love them.”
“There’s nothing to be frightened of. Everyone just wants to live in freedom, safety and dignity,” she told the crowd.
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