Columbia ordinance protects young people from dangerous anti-LGBTQ ‘conversion therapy,’ which can increase depression, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. 20 states and 100+ cities have similar protections in place.

Lawmakers amended and advanced S.811 to preempt communities from passing local laws protecting youth from anti-LGBTQ ‘conversion therapy.’

Here are the facts about ‘conversion therapy’ and why we must take action to protect young people from this practice.

The amendment is a direct response on the city of Columbia, SC's correct and ethical decision to pass a local ordinance protecting minors from anti-LGBTQ 'conversion therapy.'

It’s part of a coordinate effort from anti-LGBTQ activists, who are grasping at new school-based discrimination attempts, including excluding transgender students from school sports, banning LGBTQ-themed books from school libraries, and altogether chilling speech about LGBTQ identity and history.

We wanted to be sure you were aware of two dangerous bills that will be heard this week by the South Carolina Senate Medical Affairs Subcommittee.

We need to hear from all sorts of parents – parents of LGBTQ+ kids, parents of non-LGBTQ+ kids, and parents who are LGBTQ+ themselves! We are building a roster of parents and allies who are ready to take action in South Carolina, whether that’s by testifying against discriminatory bills, speaking to the press about their support for equality, or sharing their story online.

The SC Trans and Queer Youth Leadership Program is a collaborative program of the SC United for Justice and Equality Coalition open to middle and high school age trans and queer youth in SC.

Every year the Joint Citizens and Legislative Committee on Children hosts a series of annual fall hearings – a powerful opportunity for South Carolinians to influence future policies that concern our children across the state.

Today, we say with one voice: This lawsuit does NOT represent South Carolina. It does not speak for us.

The ordinance’s passage is a breakthrough for LGBTQ South Carolinians, who have built momentum for dignity and equality over the past year.

On May 16, 2021 in Columbia, SC, members of the LGBTQ and allied community in South Carolina came together for Trans & Queer Field Day, an afternoon of community-building and celebration about the end of the 2021 legislative session.

Thanks to everyone who came out to testify against S.531 in South Carolina, to support transgender youth!

RSVP for this special event in Columbia, SC!

Today nearly 90 educators – including teachers and counselors – from across South Carolina released a statement expressing strong opposition to anti-transgender legislation.