Transgender people across the United States are facing increasing threats to their rights, safety and identities. These challenges affect real people: our friends, family and neighbors. Everyone deserves dignity, respect and the freedom to live authentically.
The good news? There are actionable, meaningful steps we can take to help support the transgender community.
Advocate for Gender-Affirming Legislation & Healthcare Access
Gender-affirming care is essential, often lifesaving, healthcare for transgender individuals. As many states enact harmful restrictions that limit access to this care, here’s how you can help:
- Write or call your representatives — Elected officials are your representatives, and they respond to their constituents and public sentiment. Calling, writing or emailing lawmakers about the importance of protecting transgender rights demonstrates their constituents care about this issue, which in turn, can help influence policy decisions:
- Get involved with advocacy organizations — Groups like the Human Rights Campaign, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Transgender Law Center and local LGBTQ+ organizations are actively working to counter these restrictive policies. Support their efforts through donations, volunteering and/or amplifying their messages:
- Support the ACLU’s Efforts:
- Engage with the Human Rights Campaign:
- Volunteer with Local LGBTQ+ Organizations in San Francisco and Los Angeles:
Promote Safety & Well-being
The rise in anti-trans rhetoric fuels discrimination and increases the risk of violence against transgender individuals. You can foster a supportive environment for the transgender community by:
- Checking in — A simple message asking, “How are you?” can mean a lot.
- Creating safe spaces — Let trans friends, colleagues, and loved ones know you support them and are open to listening to their concerns without judgement.
- Speaking up — Challenge misinformation and transphobic rhetoric when you hear it. Correcting misconceptions and standing against discrimination helps shift societal attitudes.
Support Trans Visibility & Representation
Representation matters – highlighting trans stories and voices in media, business, and culture promote understanding and inclusion. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Amplify trans voices — Follow, share and support transgender activists, educators and content creators on social media:
- Human Rights Campaign
- SF LGBT Center
- LA LGBT Center
- American Civil Liberties Union
- GLAAD
- NGLCC
- The Trevor Project
- Blair Peters (@queersurgeon)
- Marci Bowers (@marcibowers76)
- Champion Trans-Owned Businesses & Artists – Support trans-owned brands, read books by trans authors and engage with LGBTQ+ media:
- Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters
- Redefining Realness: My Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More by Janet Mock
- Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
- If I Was Your Girl by Meredith Russo
- Encourage Inclusive Media – Advocate for films, shows, and publications that accurately and authentically portray transgender experiences.
- Clean Slate
- Will & Harper: Take a Road Trip (2024)
- Emilia Perez
- Tales of the City
- I saw the TV Glow (2024)
- The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)
- Boy Meets Girl (2014)
- The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson (2017)
- Disclosure (2020)
- Passing (2015)
Be an Active Ally
Allyship requires ongoing effort and advocacy. Meaningful ways to support trans rights include:
- Attending Protests, Rallies and Events – Show up and stand in solidarity with the trans community:
- Staying Informed – Knowledge is power — it’s about understanding, questioning and applying what you’ve learned in meaningful, productive ways. One way to put this into action is by following trans-led organizations, subscribing to newsletters, and keeping up with legislative changes affecting trans rights.
- Engaging in Conversations – Discussing transgender rights with friends, family, and colleagues who may not be aware of current challenges can foster understanding. Even small conversations can create ripple effects, building greater awareness and allyship.
- Supporting Trans Rights Through Donations — Donating to local and major trans-led initiatives and mutual aid organizations can provide critical housing, employment, health, and legal resources and support to the trans and LGBTQ+ community.
Your advocacy matters now more than ever. Taking action helps protect fundamental rights and ensures that every person is treated with dignity and respect.