In a challenging environment for LGBTQ+ rights, Phoenix Lemke, a 20-year-old from O’Fallon, Missouri, found solace in an unexpected ally: Rev. Susan Shumway, a local pastor. Lemke's journey took a drastic turn in December 2021 when he left home after his family rejected his queer identity. With nowhere to go, he initially relied on friends before finding refuge with Shumway, who offered him a room in her home.
Rev. Shumway, known for her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights in a predominantly conservative state, has made it her mission to support those in need. “She has a history of letting people stay here when they are struggling,” Lemke said. The bond between them grew strong, and he eventually began referring to her as “mom.”
Missouri has become a focal point in the national debate over LGBTQ+ rights, with state lawmakers pushing to restrict healthcare access for transgender youth, limit participation in sports, and censor LGBTQ+ content. These policies have been supported by some Christian nationalist groups, with officials invoking religious justifications for their actions. For example, state Senator Mike Moon, who authored a bill to ban trans youth healthcare, has cited his faith to defend such legislation.
In stark contrast, Rev. Shumway believes in advocating for inclusivity. “I’m a Christian who believes in trans rights,” she stated, asserting the need for a vocal opposition to the Christian right's agenda. Currently, she is campaigning to become a state representative, aiming to amplify the voices of those marginalized in the legislative process.
Shumway's advocacy dates back to 1999 when a youth confided in her about his sexual orientation. Her affirming response—“I love you”—was pivotal for her understanding of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth. As a member of the United Church of Christ, she has worked to transform congregations into "open and affirming" communities that support LGBTQ+ individuals.
For Lemke, moving in with Shumway was life-changing. It provided him with the freedom to express his identity fully. After transitioning, he celebrated his legal name change, marking a significant step in his journey. However, he remains estranged from his family, who refuse to acknowledge his identity. “By insisting they had a daughter, they lost the opportunity to have a son,” he expressed, highlighting the deep emotional toll of such rejection.
Despite the progress he's made, Lemke continues to face challenges, particularly regarding safety in public spaces and access to gender-affirming healthcare. He criticizes the narrative that anti-trans laws protect children, arguing that such legislation contributes to increased mental health struggles among trans youth. “They want to die because they aren’t allowed to be themselves,” he said.
Shumway draws inspiration from Lemke's journey and remains committed to fighting for LGBTQ+ rights. “It’s such a privilege to see him become such a confident young man,” she said.
While Lemke is not religious, he occasionally cooks for Shumway’s congregation, challenging the stereotype that faith communities are inherently intolerant. Shumway acknowledged the harm caused by some religious institutions and emphasized the need for healing within the church.
As she campaigns for a seat in the state legislature, Shumway plans to advocate for nondiscrimination laws in Missouri, where current regulations do not protect LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination in the workplace. Other faith leaders in Missouri are also mobilizing against anti-trans legislation, driven in part by their own experiences with LGBTQ+ family members.
Rabbi Daniel Bogard of St. Louis has openly criticized lawmakers for their treatment of his trans son, urging them to recognize the longstanding existence of diverse identities. He emphasizes the importance of standing up for the dignity of trans youth. “These kids need to know there are people who love them and are fighting for them,” Bogard stated.
As the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights continues in Missouri, the collaboration between Shumway, Lemke, and other advocates serves as a beacon of hope for those facing adversity. Their efforts highlight the importance of acceptance, support, and advocacy in the ongoing fight for equality.
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