LGBTQ+ Tennesseans React to Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation
By Kal Reasons
	Recent legislation has led to significant fears in the LGBTQ+ community because of the potentially disastrous effects. Ivy Pepper, a member of the community with a transgender, nonbinary child, described some of the effects these bills will have on their family. 
	Because of HB1/SB1, which is a bill that is meant to ban any medically gender-affirming care for minors across the state of Tennessee, Pepper has had to stop pursuing the option of puberty blockers for Xavier Pepper, 11, who has been experiencing increasing dysphoria without treatment. HB3/HB9 is another bill that opponents call an egregious attempt to restrict human rights.
	“I feel that it takes away my rights as the parent to do what I feel is best for my child,” Pepper said.
	In combination with the more than two dozen anti-LGBTQ+ bills being introduced, bullying is also a significant part of life for the public school student. They have been left questioning the laws that are hurting them.
	“Why would you do this? Because that’s something that’s both interesting and so odd to me. People who can take something from people who are just trying to be themselves, live their lives and rip that away,” Xavier said.
	Although fear is a major aspect of their daily lives, the Pepper family is striving to live authentically in a loving environment. For more information on upcoming legislation, please visit West Tennessee LGBTQ+ Support on Facebook.

LGBTQ+ Tennesseans React to Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation JOUR3526 MP2

LGBTQ+ Tennesseans React to Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation JOUR3526 MP2

Kal Reasons

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