The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear arguments on Wednesday regarding a critical case focused on transgender rights, specifically addressing a Tennessee law that prohibits gender-affirming healthcare for minors.

The key issue will be whether this law infringes upon the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment, which mandates that individuals in similar situations must receive equal treatment under the law. Advocates on both sides assert that their actions are motivated by the desire to shield minors from potential harm.

Currently, at least 26 states have enacted legislation that either restricts or outright bans such healthcare for minors, many of which are now facing legal challenges.

Following are the developments surrounding this case:

Chase Strangio, an attorney who is openly transgender, will make history by being the first to represent clients before the Supreme Court on this issue. Strangio represents families who argue that Tennessee’s prohibition on healthcare for transgender minors instills fear about their children’s future.

Drawing on an extensive amount of legal preparation as well as his personal experiences, Strangio states, “I am able to do my job because I have had this health care that transformed and, frankly, saved my life.” He emphasizes that he exemplifies the diversity and presence of transgender individuals in society.

Hailing from outside Boston, Strangio came out as transgender during his time in law school. At the age of 42, he works for the American Civil Liberties Union and has participated in significant legal battles, including representing Chelsea Manning, challenging military bans on transgender individuals, and contributing to the success of an LGBTQ+ workplace discrimination case at the Supreme Court. Strangio is also the father of a 12-year-old boy, has a familial connection to a conservative father who supports Donald Trump, and maintains a close relationship with his brother, who is a military veteran.

The previous time the Supreme Court dealt with a significant transgender rights case was in 2020, when it ruled that workplace discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals constitutes sex discrimination under federal civil rights legislation known as Title VII. In separate cases involving a transgender woman and a gay man, the court found that both were discriminated against due to their gender. Justice Neil Gorsuch, appointed by Donald Trump during his first term, provided the 6-3 majority opinion, joined by Chief Justice John Roberts and several other justices.

What arguments will be presented before the court?

The Supreme Court will examine whether the Tennessee law breaches the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment, with each side asserting they are acting in the best interests of minors. Strangio, advocating on behalf of families, will argue that Tennessee’s ban fosters anxiety about the future for their children and that access to gender-affirming care is crucial for their well-being.

In defense of its law, Tennessee will contend that treatments like puberty blockers and hormone therapies pose risks for young individuals, arguing that the legislation serves to protect minors from making premature medical decisions.