As the holiday season wraps us in its warmth and festive spirit, it also provides a unique opportunity for reflection and, perhaps, a touch of seasonal judgment. While Santa Claus is diligently checking his list to ensure everyone receives their well-deserved gifts, there are individuals and organizations who, year after year, find themselves on the proverbial naughty list for their actions against the transgender community. At TransVitae.com, we believe in spotlighting these actions—not to incite hatred, but to inform and empower our community, their families, and allies. Here are ten prominent figures and organizations who, through their consistent and often blatant opposition to transgender rights, have earned a spot on Santa’s not-so-nice list this Christmas.
1. Donald Trump – The Former President’s Anti-Trans Legacy
As the nation grapples with the implications of President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, transgender individuals, their families, and allies are bracing for a challenging road ahead. Trump’s recent statements and outlined policies signal a significant rollback of transgender rights, sparking concern and fear within the LGBTQ+ community. His administration has made it explicitly clear that reversing many of the protections implemented during President Joe Biden’s term is a priority. From attempting to dismantle Title IX protections that safeguard transgender students from discrimination in schools to proposing bans on transgender individuals serving in the military, Trump’s agenda is a direct attack on the progress made for transgender rights.
Additionally, Trump’s push to cut federal funding for schools promoting what he terms “radical gender ideology” has created ripples of anxiety across educational institutions. His administration’s efforts to nationalize bans on gender-affirming healthcare for minors further exacerbate fears within the transgender community. By leveraging political power to implement these restrictive policies, Trump not only marginalizes transgender individuals but also institutionalizes discrimination, making everyday life more challenging and unsafe for the transgender community.
Why He’s on the Naughty List: Donald Trump’s policies and rhetoric have systematically undermined transgender rights, from military bans to educational restrictions. His administration’s actions institutionalized discrimination, making everyday life more challenging and unsafe for the transgender community.
2. The Heritage Foundation – The Think Tank’s Anti-Trans Policies and Project 2025
The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank in the United States, has long been a proponent of policies that undermine transgender rights. In 2025, they launched Project 2025, a comprehensive initiative aimed at rolling back transgender protections and embedding anti-trans policies across various sectors. This project includes advocacy for legislation that restricts gender-affirming healthcare, limits transgender individuals’ participation in sports, and excludes transgender people from public restrooms aligned with their gender identity.
Project 2025 also involves extensive lobbying efforts to influence state and federal lawmakers, ensuring that anti-trans policies are not only enacted but also sustained and expanded. The Heritage Foundation utilizes its research and policy recommendations to support legislative measures that institutionalize discrimination against transgender individuals, arguing that these actions are necessary for preserving traditional values and ensuring public safety.
Furthermore, Project 2025 encompasses public education campaigns designed to reshape societal perceptions of transgender individuals. By disseminating misleading information and promoting harmful stereotypes, the Heritage Foundation aims to normalize anti-trans sentiments and reduce public support for transgender rights initiatives. This multi-faceted approach ensures that the transgender community remains marginalized and that discriminatory practices are deeply entrenched within societal structures.
Why They’re on the Naughty List: The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 systematically targets transgender individuals by advocating for policies that restrict their access to essential services and public spaces. By promoting legislative measures that limit transgender rights and recognition, the Foundation plays a significant role in institutionalizing discrimination. Their efforts to exclude transgender perspectives in research and policy-making further marginalize the transgender community, making it more difficult for transgender individuals to live safely and authentically. Project 2025 exemplifies The Heritage Foundation’s commitment to undermining progress toward equality and acceptance for transgender people, solidifying their position on Santa’s naughty list.
3. State Politicians Crafting Anti-Trans Legislation – The Collective Adversaries
Across the United States, numerous state politicians are actively crafting and enacting legislation aimed at restricting transgender rights. From banning transgender girls in girls’ sports to prohibiting gender-affirming medical care for minors, these lawmakers are systematically targeting the transgender community. States like Texas, Tennessee, and Alabama have introduced bills that limit transgender individuals’ ability to express their gender identity, access healthcare, and participate fully in society. This collective effort not only marginalizes transgender people but also sets a troubling precedent for the erosion of civil rights at the state level.
These legislators often justify their actions by invoking concerns about privacy, safety, and the protection of women’s spaces, despite a lack of evidence supporting such claims. Their persistent push for anti-trans laws creates an environment of fear and uncertainty, making it difficult for transgender individuals to live openly and authentically. Additionally, these state-level actions contribute to a patchwork of discriminatory policies that vary widely across the country, further complicating the fight for nationwide transgender equality.
Why They’re on the Naughty List: State politicians crafting anti-trans legislation consistently work to restrict transgender individuals’ rights and access to essential services. Their efforts institutionalize discrimination, promote harmful stereotypes, and create significant barriers to the safety and well-being of the transgender community. By prioritizing partisan agendas over human rights, these lawmakers undermine the progress toward equality and acceptance for transgender people across the nation.
4. The Cass Review – The UK’s Anti-Trans Policy Playbook
The Independent Review of Gender Identity Services for Children and Young People, commonly known as the Cass Review, was commissioned in 2020 by NHS England and NHS Improvement and led by Hilary Cass. Published on April 10, 2024, the review led to a UK-wide ban on prescribing puberty blockers to those under 18 experiencing gender dysphoria, with limited exceptions. The closure of the Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) at the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust and its replacement with new regional centers marks a significant shift in transgender healthcare provision. While the review was endorsed by both the Conservative and Labour parties and welcomed by several UK medical organizations, it has faced substantial criticism from numerous medical organizations and academic groups globally for its methodology and findings.
By restricting access to essential gender-affirming treatments and overhauling referral pathways, the Cass Review has effectively curtailed support for transgender youth, reinforcing systemic barriers and contributing to the marginalization of transgender individuals in the UK. Critics argue that the review’s approach lacks comprehensive understanding of transgender healthcare needs and fails to consider the long-term benefits of gender-affirming care, thereby prioritizing political agendas over medical and psychological well-being.
Why It’s on the Naughty List: The Cass Review is being used to implement policies that severely restrict transgender youth’s access to gender-affirming healthcare, including a ban on puberty blockers for those under 18 except in specific cases. These measures have been widely criticized for their flawed methodology and harmful impact on the transgender community, institutionalizing discrimination and limiting essential support for young transgender individuals.
5. Nancy Mace – The Conservative’s Stance Against Trans Rights
In a political climate where transgender rights are increasingly weaponized by lawmakers seeking to shore up partisan support, Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC) has become a focal point of controversy. Recently, an incident on Capitol Hill involving Mace and foster care advocate James McIntyre has underscored the high stakes for the transgender community and their allies. Mace accused McIntyre, whom she described as a “pro-trans man,” of assaulting her after he approached her to advocate for transgender foster youth. Despite eyewitness accounts contradicting her narrative, the incident has been leveraged to frame her anti-trans agenda as a matter of personal security, while masking a broader political strategy aimed at marginalizing transgender individuals.
Mace’s actions extend beyond isolated incidents. She has been at the forefront of efforts to ban transgender women from women’s restrooms in the Capitol and, more broadly, in all federal buildings. This push follows the election of Sarah McBride, the nation’s first openly transgender member of Congress, and aligns with a broader Republican strategy to capitalize on fear and misinformation to energize their base. Mace’s abrupt pivot from previously identifying as “pro-transgender rights” to aggressively opposing trans-inclusive policies highlights a calculated move to secure her political standing by demonizing transgender individuals.
Why She’s on the Naughty List: Nancy Mace has actively spearheaded legislation aimed at restricting transgender individuals’ access to gender-affirming care and participation in women’s sports. Mace’s strategic use of personal attacks and misinformation fosters a hostile environment, reinforcing systemic discrimination and hindering the transgender community’s quest for equality and acceptance.
6. Libs of TikTok – The Social Media Harbinger of Hate
Libs of TikTok, a widely followed social media account, has gained notoriety for its targeted harassment of transgender individuals and LGBTQ+ communities. By selectively highlighting and often distorting the content of transgender creators, Libs of TikTok fuels misinformation and spreads transphobic narratives. This platform has become a breeding ground for hate, encouraging followers to harass and bully transgender individuals, thereby perpetuating a hostile online environment.
The account’s modus operandi involves taking snippets of conversations or clips out of context, presenting them in a misleading manner that paints transgender individuals in a negative light. This selective portrayal not only spreads false information but also incites real-world harassment and discrimination. By amplifying these distorted narratives, Libs of TikTok undermines the safety and well-being of transgender individuals, making it harder for them to live openly and authentically.
Why They’re on the Naughty List: Libs of TikTok consistently spreads misinformation and targets transgender individuals for harassment. Their platform serves as a catalyst for online bullying and discrimination, undermining the safety and well-being of the transgender community.
7. J.K. Rowling – The Author’s Antagonistic Stance on Trans Issues
J.K. Rowling, globally renowned for her Harry Potter series, has become a controversial figure due to her outspoken views on transgender issues. Her tweets and essays have been widely criticized for perpetuating transphobic sentiments and misinformation. Rowling’s position as a beloved author gives her anti-trans commentary significant visibility, influencing public opinion and contributing to the marginalization of transgender individuals. Her actions have sparked widespread backlash, but her continued stance ensures her place on Santa’s naughty list.
Rowling has been vocal in her opposition to certain aspects of transgender rights, particularly concerning gender identity and expression. Her statements often question the validity of transgender identities and promote the idea that biological sex should be the primary determinant of gender. This perspective not only invalidates the experiences of transgender individuals but also fuels societal stigma and discrimination. By leveraging her fame and influence, Rowling amplifies anti-trans narratives, making it more challenging for transgender people to gain acceptance and equal treatment.
Why She’s on the Naughty List: J.K. Rowling uses her influential platform to spread transphobic views and misinformation, undermining transgender identities and contributing to a hostile environment. Her high-profile status amplifies the negative impact of her rhetoric, making her a significant adversary to transgender rights and acceptance.
8. Graham Linehan – The Comedy Writer’s Anti-Trans Crusade
Graham Linehan, an Irish comedian and writer known for creating beloved sitcoms like Father Ted and The IT Crowd, has become a prominent anti-trans activist in recent years. Linehan has utilized his public platforms to voice vehement opposition to transgender rights, often engaging in online harassment and disseminating harmful misinformation about the transgender community. His involvement with movements such as TERF (Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminist) has further cemented his role as a key adversary to transgender equality.
Linehan’s actions extend beyond mere commentary; he has actively participated in campaigns aimed at discrediting transgender identities and obstructing the advancement of transgender rights. By leveraging his fame and influence, Linehan has been able to reach a wide audience, spreading narratives that delegitimize transgender individuals and foster a climate of fear and hostility. His efforts not only harm the transgender community but also undermine the broader fight for LGBTQ+ rights by perpetuating divisive and exclusionary ideologies.
Why He’s on the Naughty List: Graham Linehan has actively used his public influence to spread transphobic views and misinformation, undermining transgender identities and contributing to a hostile environment. His involvement in anti-trans movements and campaigns promotes harmful stereotypes and fuels discrimination, making him a significant adversary to transgender rights and acceptance.
9. Vocal Anti-Trans Detransitioners – The Self-Proclaimed Protectors
Vocal anti-trans detransitioners have emerged as a significant force in the ongoing battle against transgender rights. These individuals, often presenting themselves as protectors of truth and science, claim that detransitioning exposes the supposed flaws and dangers of the transgender movement. By highlighting alleged cases of individuals who have reverted to their birth gender, they aim to discredit the legitimacy of transgender identities and the necessity of gender-affirming care.
These detransitioners utilize various platforms, including social media, podcasts, and conferences, to spread their narratives. They often present selective anecdotes as evidence, ignoring broader scientific consensus and the majority of transgender individuals who report improved well-being post-transition. By focusing on isolated incidents of detransition, they create a misleading portrayal that suggests a high rate of regret and negative outcomes associated with being transgender.
Moreover, vocal anti-trans detransitioners frequently collaborate with other anti-trans groups, amplifying their messages and reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Their rhetoric not only invalidates the experiences of transgender individuals but also stigmatizes those who may need to detransition, further complicating their personal journeys. This relentless campaign against transgender identities and rights fosters an environment of fear and uncertainty, making it difficult for transgender individuals to seek the support and acceptance they deserve.
Why They’re on the Naughty List: Vocal anti-trans detransitioners actively work to undermine the legitimacy of transgender identities by misrepresenting the experiences of those who detransition. Their selective use of anecdotal evidence and collaboration with other anti-trans groups promote misinformation and harmful stereotypes, exacerbating discrimination against the transgender community. By invalidating transgender experiences and advocating against gender-affirming care, they contribute to a hostile environment that hinders the transgender community’s pursuit of equality and acceptance.
10. Elon Musk – The Tech Mogul’s Anti-Trans Rhetoric
Elon Musk, CEO of companies like Twitter, Tesla and SpaceX, has increasingly become a controversial figure within the transgender community due to his public statements and actions that are perceived as anti-trans. Musk has made remarks on social media that dismiss the legitimacy of transgender identities and has been criticized for not supporting inclusive policies within his companies. His comments often downplay the importance of gender-affirming care and the challenges faced by transgender individuals, contributing to a broader environment of misunderstanding and stigma.
Additionally, Musk’s influence in the tech industry means that his views can shape company policies and workplace cultures. Critics argue that his stance fosters a non-inclusive environment that discourages transgender employees from feeling safe and supported. By using his platform to express skepticism about transgender rights and protections, Musk reinforces harmful stereotypes and undermines efforts to create a more accepting and equitable society for transgender individuals.
Why He’s on the Naughty List: Elon Musk has utilized his significant influence to spread rhetoric that undermines transgender identities and rights. His public statements and lack of support for inclusive policies contribute to a hostile environment, making it challenging for transgender individuals to feel safe and accepted within the tech industry and beyond. Musk’s actions and words perpetuate harmful stereotypes, fostering discrimination and stigma against the transgender community.
Honorable Mention: Gays Against Groomers (GAG)
Gays Against Groomers (GAG) deserves an honorable mention for their ongoing efforts to undermine transgender rights under the guise of protecting children. GAG continues to propagate harmful and unfounded accusations that link transgender identities with grooming, further entrenching stereotypes and fostering division within the LGBTQ+ community. Their actions serve as a reminder of the persistent challenges faced by transgender individuals in the fight for equality and acceptance.
Why They’re an Honorable Mention: Gays Against Groomers persistently spread misinformation and engage in rhetoric that delegitimizes transgender identities. Their focus on creating fear and misunderstanding continues to harm the transgender community, making their actions worthy of recognition as significant adversaries to transgender rights.
Wrapping It Up with a Bow: Why Awareness Matters
While Santa’s list is often seen as lighthearted, the underlying message of accountability is essential. Highlighting these figures and organizations serves not only as a form of social commentary but also as a call to action. By understanding who is actively working against transgender rights, the transgender community, their families, and allies can better navigate challenges, advocate for change, and support one another during the festive season and beyond.
This Christmas, as we celebrate inclusivity and acceptance, let’s also commit to recognizing and challenging the forces that seek to undermine these values. Whether it’s through activism, education, or simply supporting transgender voices, every action counts in creating a more equitable and loving world for everyone.
We want to hear from you! What are your thoughts on this list of adversaries to transgender rights? Do you believe there are others who should be included, or are there specific actions you think are most impactful? Share your opinions in the comments below and join the conversation to help foster understanding and drive positive change.
Stay Merry and Empowered, TransVitae Community!
