Tennessee is peeling back the rights of transgender people for the third year in a row. This session, the state legislature passed a ban on drag shows and gender-affirming health care for minors. The bills are now headed to Gov. Bill Lee, who indicated he’ll sign them.
Many trans people and the families of trans kids have left Tennessee in recent years because of these anti-LGBT laws. But, many others want to stay and fight for the state they call home.
In this episode, we’ll talk to trans Tennesseans about gender identity, recent bills and the joys of being a part of the trans community.
But first, it’s time for @ Us! Host Khalil Ekulona and digital lead Anna Gallegos-Cannon respond to listener feedback about the third-grade retention law and the future of Nissan Stadium.
Guests:
- Ray Holloman, chair of the TN Transgender Task Force
- Claire Steele, community member
- Lennon Freitas, high school student
- Maxine Spencer, community organizer and advocate
- Hella Skeleton, genderfluid actor and drag performer
Previous WPLN coverage:
- After House vote, Tennessee governor will soon decide if drag shows should be banned from public spaces
- Tennessee has passed a ban on gender-affirming health care for trans kids. The bill’s exceptions may only exist on paper.
- ‘Because others can’t leave’: Inside the fight for transgender rights in Tennessee
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