Last night, as the final votes were tallied and the reality set in, I found myself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions. Apparently, Donald Trump has been re-elected as the President of the United States, and for many in our transgender community, this news feels like a heavy weight pressing down on our hearts. The policies and rhetoric of the previous administration left scars that have yet to heal, and the prospect of facing another term is daunting.
But today, I refuse to let despair take hold. I am a 55-year-old transgender woman who has weathered storms before, and I stand before you not in defeat but in defiance. The new resistance starts now.
A Night of Uncertainty and Resolve
Throughout the night, my phone buzzed incessantly. Each update seemed to chip away at the hope I clung to. I was texting with my best friend, a pillar of strength who has been my confidante for the past two years. As the results became increasingly clear, I confessed my fears and frustrations. But she reminded me of something crucial: while we may not control the outcome of elections, we do control our response to them.
“We still have our voices,” she told me. “And you have yours—use it to advocate for all of us.”
Her words resonated deeply. They ignited a fire within me that had been dimmed but not extinguished. I realized that now, more than ever, our voices are needed. Silence is not an option when our rights and existence are on the line.
Standing Firm in the Face of Adversity
The road ahead will not be easy. We anticipate challenges to transgender rights, including potential policies like Project 2025 that threaten to roll back the progress we’ve fought so hard to achieve. It’s natural to feel fear and uncertainty, but we cannot allow these emotions to paralyze us.
As the owner of TransVitae.com, I am committed to maintaining vigilance in promoting and supporting our community. This platform exists for all of us—for transgender individuals, our families, and our allies. It is a space where we can share our stories, mobilize, and support one another.
To every member of our transgender community, I urge you to channel your emotions into action. Here’s how we can move forward together:
Stay Informed and Engaged
- Knowledge is power. Keep abreast of policy changes and proposals that affect our community.
- Attend local meetings, town halls, and engage with your representatives. Make your voice heard.
Support Advocacy Groups
- Organizations dedicated to transgender rights need our support more than ever.
- Volunteer your time, donate if you can, and amplify their messages on social media and within your networks.
Build and Strengthen Alliances
- Our allies play a crucial role in advocating for our rights. Engage with supportive communities and individuals.
- Encourage open dialogues with family and friends to foster understanding and support.
Focus on Legal and Peaceful Resistance
- It’s imperative that our actions remain within legal boundaries. Our opposition often seizes upon any misstep to further marginalize us.
- Participate in peaceful protests, sign petitions, and utilize legal channels to challenge unjust policies.
Support Our Community Members in Red States
- Those living in states with less supportive environments need our solidarity.
- Connect through online platforms, offer resources, and create networks of support.
Keeping Democratic Politicians Accountable
We must also turn our attention to those who have the power to enact change. Democratic politicians need to know that our community will not be sidelined. We must:
- Demand Commitment: Urge them to prioritize transgender rights and not sacrifice our wellbeing for political convenience.
- Monitor Actions: Hold them accountable for their promises and call them out when they fall short.
- Collaborate: Work with their offices to provide insights and personal stories that highlight the importance of protective legislation.
A Note to Those in Red States and Those Afraid to Speak Out
To our cherished members of the transgender community residing in red states or those who find themselves fearful of voicing their resistance to the upcoming administration: we see you, we hear you, and we stand with you.
The landscape you’re navigating is fraught with challenges that can make everyday life feel overwhelming. The fear of discrimination, legal repercussions, or social ostracization is real and valid. It’s okay to prioritize your safety and well-being. If protecting yourself means retreating into the shadows or stepping back from activism, know that these choices do not diminish your strength or worth.
Your journey is uniquely yours, and every step you take to safeguard yourself is an act of courage. Self-preservation is not surrender; it’s a strategic pause. In times when the environment feels hostile, taking measures to ensure your safety is both wise and necessary.
TransVitae.com is committed to being a steadfast resource for you. Here’s how we aim to support:
- Confidential Resources: Access information and support discreetly. We provide materials that you can engage with privately, ensuring your safety while keeping you informed.
- Online Support Networks: Connect with a community that understands your experiences. Our online forums and groups are moderated to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
- Legal Guidance: Stay updated on your rights and the legal protections available to you. Knowledge can be a powerful tool in navigating challenging circumstances.
- Mental Health Support: Your emotional well-being is paramount. We offer connections to professionals who are experienced in supporting transgender individuals facing hostile environments.
Your Choices Are Respected and Valid
Please remember that there is no “right” way to be part of this community. Whether you’re on the front lines of advocacy or maintaining a low profile for personal safety, your identity and your place in our community are invaluable.
We understand the complexities and the tough decisions you have to make. Your safety comes first, and there’s no shame in doing what you need to do to protect yourself. The act of surviving in a world that can be unkind is, in itself, a form of resistance.
We Stand with You
As we move forward, please know that TransVitae.com is your ally. We’re dedicated to providing a haven where you can find solace, information, and a sense of belonging—no matter where you are or how visible you choose to be.
You’re not alone. Even in moments of isolation, we’re connected through our shared experiences and mutual support. Together, in ways big and small, visible and unseen, we contribute to the strength and resilience of the transgender community.
Stay safe, take care of yourselves, and reach out whenever you need. We’re here for you—today, tomorrow, and every day that follows.
Embracing Hope and Resilience
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but remember that we are a community defined by resilience. Our history is rich with individuals who have stood up against oppression and paved the way for the rights we enjoy today. We owe it to them, ourselves, and future generations to continue that legacy.
Every challenge we face is an opportunity to strengthen our bonds and reaffirm our commitment to equality and justice. Let us draw strength from one another and from the knowledge that we are not alone in this fight.
TransVitae.com will remain a beacon for our community. I pledge to:
- Provide Resources: Offer information on legal rights, mental health support, and advocacy opportunities.
- Amplify Voices: Feature stories, art, and expressions from transgender individuals across the country.
- Foster Community: Create spaces for connection, dialogue, and mutual support.
The election results may not be what we hoped for, but they are not the end of our story. Now is the time to stand tall, to support one another, and to push back against any attempt to undermine our rights and dignity.
Remember the words of my dear friend: we have our voices. Let us use them—not just for ourselves, but for every member of our community who cannot. Together, we will navigate the challenges ahead and continue the fight for a more inclusive and just society.
The new resistance starts now. Join me.
