Monstera Production via Pexels, Cropped by Resist the Mainstream

A Christian couple, Shane and Jennifer DeGross, has taken Washington state to court, alleging discrimination in the denial of their foster care license renewal.

The Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), a legal advocacy group, spearheaded the federal lawsuit filed on March 25, accusing Washington officials at the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) of bias against the DeGrosses due to their religious beliefs regarding gender ideology.

The crux of the lawsuit revolves around the DeGrosses' assertion that the DCYF denied their license renewal application based on their refusal to adhere to certain aspects of gender ideology.

Specifically, the couple claims they were unwilling to use pronouns based on perceived gender identity rather than biological sex for foster children. Moreover, they argue that the agency mandated parents to take children to cultural events, such as pride parades, which clashed with their Christian convictions.

Quoting from the lawsuit, the DeGrosses emphasized the detrimental impact of the state's actions, stating, “Washington revoked their foster-care license because of their religious beliefs about human sexuality — prioritizing an ideological agenda over children’s best interests by excluding capable parents who can care for children in need.”

The legal battle is rooted in the couple's deep commitment to providing foster care, spanning over nine years of service in Washington state. However, their journey took an unexpected turn in 2022 when they sought to renew their license. The DeGrosses discovered new regulations concerning gender ideology within the application process, prompting them to voice their objections to the agency.

The DeGrosses underscored their dedication to caring for vulnerable children, citing their Christian faith. Shane DeGross articulated their motivation, citing biblical directives to support widows and orphans.

Over the years, the couple has provided a nurturing environment for four foster children, with hopes of continuing their service as respite-care providers to bridge the gap for children without stable homes.

Their aspirations, however, were thwarted by the denial of their license renewal by state officials, despite multiple appeals by the licensing agency.

ADF legal counsel Johannes Widmalm-Delphonse condemned the state's actions, alleging illegal discrimination against families like the DeGrosses. He highlighted similar cases, including one from 2020 where another Washington couple faced obstacles in fostering their great-granddaughter due to opposition to gender ideology.

The legal battle extends beyond Washington state, with similar disputes unfolding in neighboring Oregon. Jessica Bates, a mother of five, for example, is challenging Oregon's foster care system over allegations of religious discrimination.

The shortage of caregivers in Washington's foster care system further underscores the significance of the DeGrosses' case, with state reports acknowledging the need for racially and culturally diverse foster parents who affirm LGBTQIA+ youth.

Widmalm-Delphonse emphasized the broader implications of the case, arguing that it not only harms children but also violates fundamental constitutional rights, including freedom of speech and religion.

ADF continues to fight against similar policies in various states, emphasizing the need to ensure every child has access to a loving home while upholding constitutional principles.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case of Shane and Jennifer DeGross serves as a rallying point in the ongoing debate surrounding religious freedoms and the welfare of foster children.