I was born in Jackson, Tennessee, and while my family and I moved to a few different areas when I was young, I’ve called Nashville home for more than 20 years. I attended college here, and over the decades, I’ve built a fulfilling life with a supportive community, a successful career, a loving partner of 17 years, and a deep sense of pride in being a true Nashvillian.
However, one thing makes me question how long I can continue to call this place my home: State lawmakers persist in pushing harmful and unnecessary anti-transgender legislation. As a Tennessean who is also transgender, the message that many of my lawmakers are sending is, “You don’t belong here.”
Tennessee politicians are currently considering several anti-transgender bills. One particularly egregious measure aims to prevent trans people from using restrooms or locker rooms that match their gender identity, fostering discrimination and targeting based on appearance.
Research reveals the impact of discriminatory laws
It’s understandable if you’re not familiar with the experiences of your transgender neighbors. However, these bills are based on stereotypes and unfounded fears about the transgender community, rather than reality.
This type of anti-transgender policy, whether enacted or not, poses significant harm to LGBTQ+ individuals – particularly young people. As an employee at The Trevor Project, the leading suicide prevention organization for LGBTQ+ youth, I hear from young people about the distress caused by these bills and the hateful rhetoric surrounding them. Our research shows that nearly one in three LGBTQ+ young people attribute their poor mental health to anti-LGBTQ policies and legislation. With 48% of LGBTQ+ and 58% of trans and nonbinary youth in Tennessee seriously considering suicide in the past year, legislators should prioritize policies that support these vulnerable young people instead of further isolating them.
Working in suicide prevention, I encounter heartbreaking stories and statistics about LGBTQ+ youth. However, I also understand the positive impact of affirming and supportive environments. It’s clear: when adults create inclusive spaces for young people, their mental health and well-being improve. Research consistently shows that LGBTQ+ youth accepted by their families, schools, and communities have lower rates of suicide attempts than those who are not.
Legislators should prioritize the public good
There are many issues that I want my lawmakers to address in Tennessee. Housing costs are skyrocketing, making it difficult for people to afford homes. Our educational system is struggling due to insufficient resources for teachers and schools. And groceries are becoming increasingly expensive.
Our legislators should focus on addressing these pressing issues. I don’t know anyone who wants lawmakers to pass laws restricting transgender rights, yet it seems too many elected officials prioritize such measures. It’s time for them to redirect their energy toward solving the problems affecting their constituents and improving our state.
I cherish living in Nashville. It’s where I’ve built my life, surrounded by family and friends, and where I feel a sense of belonging that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
Legislators should strive to make Tennessee a place where everyone can proudly call home, rather than attempting to expel transgender individuals like myself from the state.
Nathanio Strimpopulos serves as the creative director of The Trevor Project, a renowned organization for LGBTQ+ youth.
This article was originally published on Nashville Tennessean: Anti-transgender laws: Tennessee lawmakers target vulnerable individuals
