Organizations Fighting for Trans Rights
There are some great organizations fighting for trans rights, both in the U.S. and internationally. At present, the rights of transgender individuals in the United States are complex and continue to be the subject of much debate. The Trump administration has issued executive orders and directives that have rolled back significant protections for transgender people. These actions limit the ability for transgender people to obtain official identification in their appropriate gender. These actions also limit access to gender-affirming care.
These federal actions have been accompanied by some state-level legislative efforts to restrict transgender rights, such as prohibiting gender-affirming medical care for minors, limiting restroom access, and banning transgender students from participating in sports.
Organizations in the Fight
A number of organizations are leading the fight to protect the rights of the transgender community and resist the current discriminatory legislation:
Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE)
Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE) was created by the combination of the National Center for Transgender Equality and the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund and it concentrates on advocacy, legal services, and public policy to fight for transgender rights. Advocates for Trans Equality’s Impact Litigation Program brings cases and files amicus briefs (friend-of-the-court briefs) in state and federal courts across the country to protect the rights of transgender and nonbinary people. Visit Advocates for Trans Equality website.
Transgender Law Center (TLC)
TLC is the largest national trans-led organization and it works to promote self-determination and provides legal services to transgender and gender nonconforming people. TLC is involved in advocacy and litigation in areas including employment, prison conditions, education, immigration, and healthcare. TLC is dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights of transgender and gender nonconforming people across the country. Visit Transgender Law Center website.
Human Rights Campaign (HRC)
HRC works to raise public awareness about the transgender community and offers resources that assist transgender and non-binary people in living their most authentic lives. HRC promotes a variety of trans programs, including the Trans Justice Initiative Small Grants Program. Visit Human Rights Campaign website.
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
The ACLU is involved in legal work and advocacy to defend the rights and safety of transgender people in schools and detention centers and other settings. The ACLU works in courts, legislatures, and communities to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties that the Constitution and the laws of the United States guarantee everyone in this country. Visit American Civil Liberties Union website.
PFLAG
PFLAG is the nation’s largest organization that provides support to LGBTQ+ people and their families through education, advocacy, and support to advance equality. LGBTQ+ people and those who love them know firsthand the impact of discriminatory laws, and no one is better suited to advocate against harmful legislation than PFLAG members and supporters. Visit PFLAG website.
Lambda Legal
Lambda Legal is a national organization that works to secure full recognition of the civil rights of LGBTQ+ individuals through impact litigation, education, and public policy work. Lambda Legal’s lawyers have won precedent-setting civil rights cases on everything from marriage equality to expressions of gender identity to health care discrimination. Visit Lamda Legal website.
Social Media Warriors
Other talented and dedicated transgender rights warriors are very active on social media. We intend to create another article highlighting some of these individuals and groups who are making their voices heard. We encourage everyone to engage with social media. Join conversations about transgender rights and the topics that matter to you. Social media is a great way to amplify your voice.
How You Can Fight for Trans Rights
Some ways that transgender people and their allies can fight against discriminatory efforts are:
- Stay Informed: Be aware of what is going on in terms of legislation and policy regarding transgender rights. Some of the resources that are very helpful include the ACLU’s legislative tracker.
- Engage in Advocacy: Be part of the campaigns, write to the representatives and support the laws that champion for the rights of transgender people. You can get involved with organizations such as A4TE.
- Support Affected Individuals: Provide emotional and practical assistance to transgender people being discriminated against. This can include attending events with them, helping them get resources or just being there for them.
- Educate Others: Raise awareness of transgender issues in your community to ensure that the community is more accepting.
- Donate: Give to those organizations that are fighting for the rights of transgender people and defending them.
Everyone can play a part in the larger struggle to ensure that the rights of transgender people are protected.