Summer's Here!

Last Week’s Wins and Challenges for America’s Kids

Happy summer, Restore Childhood community!

As the season heats up, so does the fight to protect childhood. You have not heard from us for a few weeks and this is because all efforts have been focused on finalizing 15 Days, our documentary on the Covid school closures. Our post-production team now includes acclaimed composer Scott McRae, and editor Megan Swados who are working alongside Stephanie Edmonds, Hawk Jensen and me (Natalya) to release the film later this summer.

Here’s a roundup of last week’s key stories impacting America’s kids, from a landmark Supreme Court victory to emerging concerns.

Supreme Court Victory in Skrmetti

Last week, the Supreme Court ruled 6–3 in United States v. Skrmetti, upholding Tennessee’s ban on puberty blockers and hormone therapy for minors with gender dysphoria. Restore Childhood signed onto an amicus brief for this case, and the decision is a major win for children’s health. Chief Justice John Roberts’ majority opinion held that Tennessee’s law, SB1, passes rational basis review, protecting minors from irreversible treatments based on age and medical needs, not sex-based discrimination.

The Court cited the Cass Review, highlighting uncertainties about the long-term effects of gender-affirming care for youth. This ruling strengthens protections for kids in Tennessee and bolsters similar laws in 25 other states. While parental rights weren’t directly addressed, it affirms states’ role in prioritizing child welfare. Details are available on SCOTUSblog.

MAHA Movement Gains Momentum

Last week, the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement grew, with parents and advocates on X sharing efforts to improve children’s health. From school districts adopting farm-to-table lunches to pushes for cleaner air and water, these grassroots wins align with Restore Childhood’s mission to foster healthy environments for kids. MAHA’s focus on nutrition and holistic wellness is encouraging, though no major policy announcements have surfaced yet. Check X for the latest MAHA updates.

Parental Rights Progress

On April 22, the Supreme Court heard Mahmoud v. Taylor, a case involving Maryland parents seeking to opt their children out of public school curricula with LGBTQ+ themes. The Court’s sympathetic tone toward the parents during arguments suggests a potential win for families asserting control over their kids’ moral and religious upbringing. Covered by PBS News, this case reinforces parental authority, a core Restore Childhood principle. A decision is anticipated by early July.

Looking Ahead

The Skrmetti win, MAHA’s rise, and Mahmoud’s promise are steps forward but we are not there yet. Restore Childhood remains dedicated to evidence-based care and parental rights, opposing ideological overreach that harms kids.

I will continue sharing updates about the 15 Days release here. Meanwhile, you can support our mission by becoming a paid subscriber and follow us on X.

Here’s to a summer of restoring childhood!