Lawsuit: Massachusetts rejects foster parents’ adoption due to transgender beliefs.
A Catholic Couple Fights for Their Right to Foster Children
A Catholic couple in Massachusetts is taking legal action against the state for allegedly denying them the opportunity to adopt children based on their religious beliefs regarding transgender procedures for minors.
“After months of interviews and training, and after years of heartbreak, we were on the verge of finally becoming parents,” the Burkes said in a statement. “We were absolutely devastated to learn that Massachusetts would rather children sleep in the hallways of hospitals than let us welcome children in need into our home.”
Mike and Kitty Burke, who have struggled with infertility, made the decision to become foster parents. As devout Roman Catholics, they attend church regularly and hold the belief that children should not undergo procedures to change their biological sex. They also adhere to Catholic teachings on marriage and sexuality.
Despite their genuine love and support for all children, a Massachusetts adoption official wrote that their faith and beliefs were not considered supportive. However, the official did acknowledge that the Burkes are “lovely people.”
The lawsuit filed by the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty argues that Massachusetts’ interpretation of its regulations creates an “absolute bar” for Catholics who follow the tenets of their faith. This has resulted in a shortage of foster families in the state, leaving some children without proper homes and care.
Lori Windham, Vice President and Senior Counsel at Becket, expressed her disappointment, saying, “It’s really sad to see that families who would love and care for children are not able to bring those children into their home because of their religious beliefs.”
During the Burkes’ interview process, they were extensively questioned about their views on LGBTQIA+ children and gender interventions. Kitty, in particular, expressed her concern about subjecting a child to a lifetime of medical appointments and potential pain. She referred to hormone blockers as “chemical castration” and believed that affirming a child’s physical appearance as perfect was the best approach.
While it remains unclear if there is an official transgender litmus test for foster care in Massachusetts, the state’s Commission on LGBTQ Youth has recommended expanding child abuse laws to potentially prosecute parents who do not allow their child to transition.
The Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services, which oversees the Department of Children and Families, has not provided a comment on the matter.
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