A Call To Action: Protecting Black Trans Lives

Black transgender people face disproportionate levels of violence, discrimination, and marginalization, compounded by the intersecting oppressions of racism and transphobia. The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) reported that, in 2020, anti-LGBTQ+ violence reached its highest recorded levels in a decade, with Black trans people—especially Black trans women—being the most targeted.

This violence is not random but systemic, fueled by anti-Blackness, misogynoir, and deeply entrenched transphobia. Black trans individuals are often denied access to stable housing, employment, and healthcare, making them more vulnerable to violence. Law enforcement and the legal system fail to protect Black trans people, and in many cases, actively contribute to their criminalization and mistreatment.

Despite these challenges, Black trans people continue to lead movements for justice, demanding protections, resources, and societal change. This crisis requires urgent action from everyone. Here’s how you can help make the world safer and more inclusive for Black trans lives.

Understanding Intersectionality

Intersectionality describes the overlapping forms of discrimination that arise from multiple aspects of identity—such as race, gender, sexual orientation, and class. Black trans individuals face unique challenges that cannot be understood by examining each aspect of their identity separately. Recognizing intersectionality allows for more effective advocacy, support, and policy reforms tailored to the specific struggles of Black trans people.

Addressing Systemic Oppression

Black trans people are disproportionately impacted by systemic inequalities in education, healthcare, housing, and employment. Many institutions continue to deny them basic rights and access to resources. To combat this:

• Demand and support policy reforms that protect Black trans people from discrimination in education, healthcare, and the workplace.

• Support laws addressing hate crimes targeting trans and Black communities.

• Advocate for gender-inclusive education that includes Black trans history and anti-racist curricula.

Combating Transphobia and Racism in Everyday Life

Everyday actions play a key role in shifting societal norms:

• Speak up against transphobic and racist remarks, jokes, or behaviors.

• Educate yourself and others on intersectionality and the lived experiences of Black trans people.

• Stand up against microaggressions in the workplace, social settings, and online spaces.

Ensuring Safe Public and Private Spaces

Black trans individuals face harassment in public spaces such as restrooms, workplaces, and schools just for existing. To foster safer environments:

• Advocate for gender-neutral restrooms in public places and workplaces.

• Support anti-harassment policies that protect trans individuals.

• Intervene when witnessing harassment or violence against Black trans people.

Supporting and Empowering Black Trans Voices

Representation matters in breaking harmful stereotypes and fostering understanding. Elevating Black trans voices in media, politics, and activism is crucial. Here’s some tips:

• Promote the work of Black trans activists, artists, and writers

• Attend events and share discussions led by Black trans individuals.

• Spread resources created by Black trans individuals to amplify their impact such as TransLash, a media organization uplifting Black trans narratives and producing educational content.

Advocating for Access to Healthcare

Black trans individuals experience significant barriers in healthcare, including discrimination and lack of access to gender-affirming care. You can help by:

• Supporting trans-inclusive healthcare policies.

• Pushing for medical training on trans healthcare needs.

• Donate to organizations that prioritize the needs of Black trans people such as:

  • National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network (NQTTCN)
  • Black Trans Advocacy Coalition (BTAC)
  • The Okra Project
  • Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund (TLDEF) 
  • Center for Black Equity

Promoting Economic Empowerment

Economic hardship, including high unemployment and workplace discrimination, disproportionately affects Black trans individuals. To support economic stability:

• Donate to mutual aid funds providing financial assistance to Black trans individuals such as For The Gworls, and or The Okra Project.

• The Okra Project: Provides home-cooked meals and food support for Black trans people experiencing food insecurity. 

• Advocate for and support policies ensuring equal pay and employment opportunities for Black trans people.

• Buy from and promote Black trans-owned businesses such as:
  • House of AFRO
  • Femme Power Health
  • BlkTransLove
  • M.A.A.R.I.E. Studios
  • NuTrans*Health
  • Tareeq "Tariq" King’s Portrait Photography

A Collective Responsibility

The fight for Black trans safety and equality requires collective action. Moving beyond awareness to active participation is essential. Some take-a-ways:

• Speak up against injustice whenever you see it.

• Support Black trans-led initiatives and organizations.

• Commit to long-term advocacy and education to drive systemic change.

Protecting Black trans lives is not just a moment but an ongoing commitment. We must all play our part in dismantling the structures of oppression and fostering a world where Black trans individuals can live safely, authentically, and with dignity.

This article is also available as a graphic slide show on Instagram and Facebook.

References:

• Human Rights Campaign. (2020). A National Epidemic: Fatal Anti-Transgender Violence in America.

• National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP). (2020). Anti-LGBTQ Hate Violence in 2020.

• National Center for Transgender Equality. (2015). The U.S. Transgender Survey.

• The Williams Institute. (2016). The Economic Impact of Discrimination on Black Transgender People.

• GLMA. (2017). Health Care Needs of Transgender People of Color.

• Black Trans Advocacy Coalition. (2020). Black Transgender Health and Wellness Report.

• PFLAG National. (2021). Guide to Being a Trans Ally. Includes resources on supporting Black trans people in everyday life