With a growing number of states passing laws that curtail LGBTQ+ rights, the US is becoming an increasingly dangerous place for trans and nonbinary Americans to go to school, play sports, and simply live, even in states where their rights aren't being directly limited. Tennessee recently made headlines for becoming the first state to restrict public drag performances, and a US House panel is currently considering a federal bill that would ban transgender women and girls from competing in team sports. Last year, the US Air Force even offered to transfer active-duty members with an LGBTQ+ family member to safer states within the country.
Who is helping?
- The Trans Empowerment Project supports trans people in the community with emergency needs like transportation to shelter, and it also works to combat misinformation and education.
- Here's a lengthy list of organisations to support in Tennessee in particular, which has been thrust into the national spotlight in recent months.
- The Attic Youth Center in Philadelphia is the only LGBTQ+ youth center in the city. It provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth, "whether you're interested in dance, cooking, or art; want to talk to a therapist about coming out to your friends and family; need help finding a job or writing a paper; or just want to meet other LGBTQ youth." It also supports education, skills development, and cultural projects.