5 Things to Know - 6/26/2025
1. Join AFFA's Decompression Session on July 2nd
Join AFFA for a virtual community care session following the detrimental news from the Supreme Court and Columbia City Council, outlined below. This therapist-led space will help us process grief, anger, and exhaustion in community, offering grounding tools and collective support.
Date: Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Time: 6:30–7:30 PM ET
Facilitator: Meg Goettsches, MA, LPC-A, ADC-IP (she/they), With You Therapy, LLC
Participation is free but registration is required.
Note: This is not a clinical service, and emergency contact info will be collected to ensure participants' safety.
2. U.S. v. Skrmetti: The Court Chose Injustice
Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a devastating 6–3 ruling in U.S. v. Skrmetti, upholding Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for youth. The majority claimed the law doesn’t discriminate based on sex or trans status—denying trans youth the dignity and protection they deserve.
Let’s be clear: this decision is cruel, and it endangers lives. But while the court can strip legal protections, it can’t take away our commitment to transgender youth, our organizing power, or our hope.
This is a dark moment, but not the end. We will keep fighting. Together.
3. Columbia Repeals Its Conversion Therapy Ban
On June 24, Columbia’s City Council repealed Ordinance 2021-021, which had banned conversion therapy. This rollback not only puts LGBTQ+ youth at risk, but also sends a chilling message about our city’s priorities.
This decision is painful. It disregards the real harm of so-called “conversion therapy” and undermines hard-won progress. AFFA remains committed to protecting LGBTQ+ youth across South Carolina, and so are our partners.
The hard work that went into fighting against this repeal locally by The Harriet Hancock Center and ACLU SC has not gone unnoticed. We thank them, and you, for standing up for what's right.
4. Thank You, Park Circle Pride!
In much lighter news, Park Circle Pride 2025 was a shimmering success. With over 44 local businesses involved and 55+ events in just six days, our community came together in full force. You showed up with joy, resilience, and solidarity; even in tough times.
Thank you to every performer, sponsor, vendor, volunteer, and guest who made it happen. You danced, donated, and fought for a better future. Even if all you did was make a friendship bracelet or grab a sticker; we see you, and we thank you.
We’re honored to be in community with you.
5. KKBE Pride Shabbat - June 27
Happy Pride Month from Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim! Their annual Pride Shabbat service is Friday, June 27 at 7:00 p.m. and you’re invited. Come celebrate with inclusive songs, readings, and reflections from Charleston’s Jewish LGBTQ+ community.
All are welcome to worship, sing, and honor Pride together in sacred space.
You can register to attend here.
