artificial insemination kit for humans
“Where’s the outrage, America?” by Jamie Carter
Recently, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed state child welfare officials to initiate child abuse investigations concerning reports of transgender children receiving gender-affirming care. This move is part of a troubling trend of anti-trans legislation that has emerged across the nation, particularly in Texas, while trans youth continue to endure significant hardships; over half of trans and non-binary young people contemplated suicide in 2020.
This latest directive has left mothers like Lisa Reynolds, a dedicated advocate for trans children and their families in Texas, feeling alarmed. We spoke with Lisa to understand how this week has impacted her family and what message she wishes to convey.
“Last week, I felt frustrated, concerned, and furious with politicians targeting families like mine. But now, I’m just filled with fear. The threats have intensified; Child Protective Services (CPS) is investigating families despite their claims otherwise. I’m overwhelmed. I can’t stop crying. I finally managed to eat after days of stress. I’m supposed to be the strong one, the Texas mom who stands firm, but I’m terrified. I keep asking, where’s the support? Where’s the White House? Where’s the Equality Act? Where’s the media? Where’s the outrage? We can’t fight this battle on our own.”
“Families are leaving the state as political refugees, and I don’t blame them. If the choice is between staying and risking my children being placed in foster care or leaving to keep my family together, it’s an easy decision. Logistically, it would be a nightmare; my husband is a tenured professor, and I run a small business. But if that’s what we have to do to protect our family, then we will.”
“But the pressing question is: why is the solution for us to leave? Why isn’t America doing more to support families like mine? My child deserves the same respect as anyone else’s.”
“I wish more parents could empathize with our situation—regardless of whether their children are transgender or not. It’s not abusive to love them and follow medical guidance; being investigated as if it were is horrifying. Our foster care system is already in shambles. Instead of sending CPS workers to investigate loving families, they should be ensuring that all children get the care they need. Kids will suffer, whether it’s trans kids facing suicidal thoughts due to this treatment or children in foster care lacking adequate support from their caseworkers. It’s disgraceful.”
“My children aren’t doing well right now. We’ve prepared them for the possibility of CPS involvement, explaining their rights. They need to know they can refuse to answer questions or leave class if approached by CPS. We’re having these tough conversations because we must. They say they’re fine, but I can sense they’re not.”
“I’m trying to raise awareness. Where’s the outrage, America? These are kids! They’re well-adjusted, articulate, loving, and deserving of support, yet the nation is silent. I urge everyone to contact their senators and advocate for the Equality Act, which would extend protections for sexual orientation and gender identity. Also, please check your voter registration and participate in the primaries. These two actions could significantly impact the lives of these children.”
This conversation has been edited for clarity.
If you or someone you know is seeking assistance with LGBTQ+ mental health or safety issues, please visit The Trevor Project for support.