Story perspectives

2025 Survey: Anti-LGBTQ Climate, Dobbs Hinder Trans, Nonbinary Parenting

6/6/2026

Summary

Trans Parents Struggle

A 2025 survey of transgender and nonbinary parents found 52% view the hostile anti-LGBTQ climate as a parenting barrier.
Respondents were young, with 65% aged 18-35, 37% nonbinary, and one-third people of color.
Fifty-five percent said 2022 Dobbs decision affected plans, prompting 33% to cite President Donald Trump’s re-election for fewer children.
Financial strain and mental-health issues each affected 49% of respondents, with 59% fearing lacking federal parenting protections.

Summary

Trans Parents Conceal

Thirty-nine percent limit public visibility because of safety concerns tied to President Donald Trump’s anti-trans policies.
Twenty-five percent plan to restrict their children’s speech about the parents’ transgender identity to avoid outing.
Forty-one percent fear schools, daycares, or neighbors might report them to child-welfare agencies.
Thirty percent have added legal safeguards for their child relationship and twenty-five percent for their partnership.

History

Historical Context

Congress introduced the Defense of Marriage Act in May 1996; 342 House members and 84 Senators approved it, and President Bill Clinton signed it on September 21, 1996. The Supreme Court invalidated Section 3 in United States v. Windsor (2013) and Obergefell (2015) nullified Section 2. After the 2022 Dobbs ruling and former President Donald Trump’s anti-trans agenda, transgender parents warn similar federal bans could return.

1 of 3

Trans Parents Struggle

A 2025 survey of transgender and nonbinary parents found 52% view the hostile anti-LGBTQ climate as a parenting barrier.
Respondents were young, with 65% aged 18-35, 37% nonbinary, and one-third people of color.
Fifty-five percent said 2022 Dobbs decision affected plans, prompting 33% to cite President Donald Trump’s re-election for fewer children.
Financial strain and mental-health issues each affected 49% of respondents, with 59% fearing lacking federal parenting protections.

1 / 3