This week U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle issued a preliminary injunction against Florida’s ban on transgender care for minors sought by their parents. Brought by 7 parents of children with gender dysphoria, the 44-page decision stated, first, that even the medical defendants in the case admitted that gender identity is real beyond external organ appearances.
Noting that the “overwhelming weight of medical authority” supports treatment for such minors, the Court stated, “There is no rational basis for a state to categorically ban these treatments.” The Court made it clear that the State’s motivation was not the best interests of children, but pure politics, grounded in bigotry.
Using the medical testimony of the defendants, the Court stated Florida’s law was based on nothing more than opposition to people who are transgender, clearly discriminatory, violating the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution. The injunction will, most likely, be appealed, but for now it stands as one small victory against the bigots and fear-mongers on transgender care running rampant.
Prayer for the Day
Like the Psalmist, O God, we pray for justice and protection,
For so many are caught up in rigid beliefs that hurt others;
Like the Psalmist, we are grateful when voices for understanding
Are often silenced by fear and hate from others.
Help us, O God, to reach out to those trapped by their fears
So we as a people may care for the variety of your creation.
In the name of the One who cares for all,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
If ever a pot called a kettle black it is here. The statute and the rules were an exercise in politics, not good medicine.
- From the decision in Doe v. Lapado, et al
The lord rebuke you, Satan, and all of your demons and all of your imps who come parade before us,” Barnaby said. “That’s right, I called you demons and imps, who come and parade before us and pretend that you are part of this world.
- Statement by Webster Barnaby, State Representative in Florida
Lead me, O Lord, in our righteousness because of my enemies …
For there is no truth in their mouths; their hearts are destructive;
Their throats are open graves; they flatter with their tongues.
Psalm 5: 8-9