Mass. Christian Foster Parents Lose License After Refusing To Sign Transgender Policy Over Faith

A Woburn, Massachusetts couple lost their foster care license after refusing to sign a state policy requiring foster parents to affirm the gender identities of children in their care.
Lydia and Heath Marvin, who have three teens and have fostered eight children since 2020, say their Christian faith motivates them to help children in need. Their license was revoked in April after they declined to sign the Department of Children and Families’ LGBTQIA+ Non-Discrimination Policy, which requires foster parents to affirm a child’s LGBTQIA+ identity, including using chosen names and pronouns.
“We’d love and care for any child,” said Lydia Marvin. “But we can’t sign something that conflicts with our faith. We asked for an accommodation and were told we must sign or lose our license.”
The Marvins appealed unsuccessfully and are considering legal options. Two other Christian families have joined a federal lawsuit against DCF, backed by the Massachusetts Family Institute and Alliance Defending Freedom, arguing the policy violates free speech and religious liberty.
The Trump administration recently sent a letter to DCF referencing the case, calling the policy “deeply troubling” and a violation of First Amendment rights.
Supporters of the policy say it protects vulnerable youth. “The state must ensure children are safe and supported,” said Polly Crozier of GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders. “Foster parents are temporary caretakers.”
A report suggests about 30% of Massachusetts foster youth identify as LGBTQ. The Marvins say DCF has allowed flexibility before and that they would continue fostering while being transparent about their beliefs.
DCF declined to comment due to pending litigation.

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