As the new term begins at the United States Supreme Court, a number of high-stakes cases involving LGBTQ+ issues are on its docket. These cases will shape the future of rights and protections for queer and transgender Americans — affecting everything from youth health care and school curricula to athletic participation and “conversion therapy.” For LGBTQ+ individuals, allies, educators, and policymakers, the upcoming decisions are deeply consequential.
One of the most closely watched cases is Chiles v. Salazar, in which the Court agreed to hear a challenge to a state ban on “conversion therapy” for minors in Colorado. Supporters of the ban argue it protects young LGBTQ+ people from harmful and pseudoscientific practices. Opponents — including the therapist challenging the law — claim that the ban violates First Amendment protections for speech and religious expression. SCOTUSblog+2National Council of Jewish Women+2
If the Court rules in favor of the therapist, striking down the ban could jeopardize similar protections in many other states. Advocates warn that this could reopen the door to licensed professionals offering so-called “therapies” aimed at suppressing LGBTQ+ identity in minors — a move they argue would endanger the mental health and safety of queer youth. STAT+1
Another major case is West Virginia v. B.P.J., which challenges state laws banning transgender girls and women from participating in female sports teams. The Court’s decision could either affirm or roll back transgender students’ right to compete in school athletics according to their gender identity. Wikipedia+2National Council of Jewish Women+2
The outcome in West Virginia v. B.P.J. matters far beyond athletics. It is about whether transgender people’s identities are recognized and respected under law — whether public institutions must accommodate gender identity or whether biological definitions of sex will continue to dominate court rulings. For families and trans youth, the case carries symbolic importance as well as practical consequences. Wikipedia+1
A third major legal showdown before the Court is Mahmoud v. Taylor. In this case, parents in Montgomery County, Maryland are challenging the inclusion of LGBTQ+ themed books in public-school curricula — arguing that requiring their children to participate violates their religious convictions. Specifically, they object to readings featuring LGBTQ+ characters, and seek to force the school to allow opt-outs. SCOTUSblog+2SCOTUSblog+2
For LGBTQ+ advocates, a ruling siding with the parents could undercut efforts to promote inclusivity and representation in schools. For opponents, it raises concerns that such a decision would embolden further challenges to LGBTQ+ visibility in education, eroding support for equity and acceptance. SCOTUSblog+1
At the same time, another case has already drawn a ruling: United States v. Skrmetti, decided in 2025. In that case, the Court upheld a Tennessee law banning gender-affirming medical treatments — such as hormone therapy or puberty blockers — for transgender minors. The decision affirmed that the law does not classify based on “sex” or “transgender status,” and thus only merits deferential review under the Constitution. Wikipedia+1
That ruling has been denounced by civil-rights groups, who argue it undermines the rights and well-being of transgender youth. For many trans families, it restricts access to medically necessary treatment, and sends a message about whose identities are legally recognized and whose are not. National Center for LGBTQ Rights+1
Beyond individual cases, the broader significance of this Supreme Court term lies in how it frames LGBTQ+ rights within America’s legal and cultural landscape. The Court’s decisions could redefine the balance between religious freedom, parental rights, free speech, and civil protections — with long-term implications.
For queer and trans communities, this is a moment of uncertainty — and activism. Advocates for LGBTQ+ rights are watching closely and mobilizing, knowing that the outcomes will affect representation, safety, and equality in everyday life: in schools, health care, workplaces, and public institutions.
No matter how the Court rules, the coming months will be pivotal. Some decisions could protect existing rights and expand inclusion — others might roll back decades of progress. What’s clear is that the eyes of the nation are on SCOTUS — and so are the hopes, fears, and resilience of LGBTQ+ communities.