Understanding Violence Against Trans Communities:A Call for Action and Allyship

I want to take a moment to address an issue that's not only important to me but is a stark reality we must confront: the violence faced by the transgender community. The recent murder of Sam Nordquist is a painful reminder that these events are tragically not new. We’ve seen this cycle repeat itself time and again, with historical markers like the murder of Matthew Shepard in the nineties capturing media attention, and even long before that with people such as Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson fighting for transgender equality—even within their community. Yet, it often seems that it takes a tragedy to obtain sustained visibility in larger society.

Our awareness of the reality for trans individuals, especially during politically charged times, is crucial. Rates of violence against trans people, particularly Black trans women, have skyrocketed. Research indicates that from 2017 to 2021, the rates of violence against Black trans women significantly rose, nearly doubling in the four years leading up to Trump’s last election. 

It is disheartening to see that as we have started the next presidential term, there have already been acts of violence against transgender individuals. We’ve also seen the concerning removal of LGBTQ language from federal government websites, sending a very clear message about the current political climate: the rights and recognition of the queer community, especially the trans community, are under threat. 

The emboldenment of individuals to act violently aligns with a political rhetoric that essentially gives a green light for such behavior. This correlates with other events we’ve seen in recent years, such as January 6th, illustrating how supporters respond to the tone set by their leaders.

The key right now is to think about how we can protect one another. There is a strong call to action for cisgender, particularly straight individuals, to be true allies. Allyship doesn’t end at the voting booth; it continues in our daily lives and in our communities. Real change requires us to stand alongside queer and trans peers, ensuring everyone feels safe and heard. 

One practical step many in the queer community have taken is to go out in groups. 

With the nature of recent incidents there's a pressing need to prioritize safety. It’s vital to be cautious, especially when meeting people online, and to look out for one another in public spaces. Understandably, with our community being centered around love and acceptance, I think we too often expect the same from everyone, but it’s essential we lead with a sense of caution first. It is possible to still have an overpouring of love while ensuring the safety of ourselves and those we care about.

The daily reality for many trans people is one of heightened anxiety. The fear of violence and discrimination can push individuals toward social detransitioning as a means of self-protection. Detransitioning can lead to profound mental health struggles, including increased suicide risk. The pressure to alter one’s authentic self for safety is alarming and reflects the deeper systemic issues at play.

We must confront not only the direct acts of violence encouraged by our political climate but also the insidious impacts of feeling unseen and unheard. 

As we navigate this difficult landscape, one piece of advice I often share with my clients is for them to be mindful of their news and media consumption. It can be overwhelming to stay constantly updated on such distressing news. While awareness is important, so is self-care. I recommend setting boundaries—aim for a check-in once a week to understand what’s happening without getting lost in the constant churn of information. 

We can engage with the stories around us, but we shouldn’t let them consume our entire existence. And remember that your voice has power. From Suffragettes to the Southern Christian Leadership Conference to the Gay Liberation Front, and most recently, the Gay and Lesbian Advocates & Defenders - no change has happened with silence. Supporting one another, especially our queer and trans friends, is necessary to ensure everyone can live authentically and safely. Together, we can amplify stories, push back against violence, and advocate for a world where everyone can live openly and proudly as their true selves.