Yet Hope Is Not Lost
With the swift passage of legislation infringing on LGBTQ+ freedoms, it is imperative that queer allies and LGBTQ+ friendly organizations stand with and support their fundamental rights. Whether you are someone who identifies as an ally or a member of the community, there are many ways to get involved and advocate for the lives of transgender and nonbinary persons.
You can support LGBTQ+ rights by tracking the myriad of bills proposed this year, bills that would affect queer residents in the U.S., or you can follow anti-trans bills here in order to advocate against them.
Since we are in the midst of an election year, research where your candidates stand on these issues and where their votes lie.
One underutilized way to exercise your political voice is to leave public comments on rules that are proposed on the federal register.
If you are unsure of how to leave a public comment, utilize this how-to guide! You may also elect to comment anonymously. Check out this resource to discover additional information for your specific state.
If you identify as transgender or nonbinary, you can learn more about your rights by visiting the National Center for Transgender Equality. Its website is a one-stop shop for the most current healthcare, employment, education, and immigration protections for trans people. You can also find resources on how to file complaints and obtain legal assistance if you have experienced discrimination or mistreatment.
Looking for a simple way to support? You can give financially! Consider donating to organizations like the ACLU as they sponsor lawyers working pro bono to ensure the rights and safety of queer Americans, from trans youth in Texas to active-duty service members who are transgender.
If you do not identify as a member of the queer community, using your status and power to support trans and other queer people is indispensable. Advocate to adopt inclusive policies in your workplace or school and stand with spaces and resource groups serving as safe havens for the queer community.
As we close out Pride month, celebration is another crucial aspect of building resilience and continuing the fight for equal, human rights. The beauty and vibrance of the transgender community are things not to be silent about!
Trans owned or operated businesses and organizations are excelling in art, consulting, social work, and the trades, to name a few industries. Trans actors and influencers are prominent in media.
Overall, trans individuals are making the United States a better place by their mere presence, whether siblings who share inside jokes, partners who shower you with love, neighbors who tend the apartment’s flowers, friends who lend an ear, or managers who lead with empathy.
As veteran Lexie Thach shares, “Be genuinely honest with [your]self and to the world.” By acting through love, you will move the needle a little closer to acceptance, perhaps equity, and eventually liberation.
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