Washington, DC In a groundbreaking move, the National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) and the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund (TLDEF) have officially announced their intent to merge, creating a new organization called Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE). This historic collaboration brings together two leading national trans civil rights organizations, doubling their resources and commitment to justice for transgender individuals in America.
The Birth of Advocates for Trans Equality
The merger, announced on January 17, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the fight for transgender rights. Andrea “Andy” Hong Marra, the executive director of TLDEF, and Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, the executive director of NCTE, will jointly lead the new organization as CEO and Executive Director, respectively. Their shared vision is to amplify the impact of trans advocacy and create lasting change.
Strength in Unity
Both NCTE and TLDEF have a long history of collaboration, working tirelessly to protect the legal rights and well-being of transgender people. Now, by combining their strengths into a single entity, Advocates for Trans Equality aims to be a highly influential and effective voice in the national movement for trans rights.
Marra emphasizes the power of this union: “With double the resources, expertise, and fearless commitment to justice, we will be a powerful national organization to lead the next chapter of the transgender rights movement. Advocates for Trans Equality will show exactly what can be materially achieved when trans advocates come together and seek nothing less than equality for trans people in America.”
Heng-Lehtinen echoes this sentiment: “Even though we’ve achieved many victories over the years, it feels like it was just a warm-up for the journey ahead. With a record number of attacks on trans people and trans rights, now is the time to unite and use our combined power and influence to advance trans equality in bigger and bolder ways than our organizations could alone.”
Advocacy and Impact
Advocates for Trans Equality will operate as both a 501©(3) organization focused on litigation and public education and a 501©(4) organization influencing policy at local, state, and federal levels. Their comprehensive approach ensures that trans experiences and perspectives guide the movement for trans rights.
“Now, more than ever, we need trans voices and organizations leading on the issues that impact the trans community. In the face of discrimination and injustice, the trans community needs the strength that this historic merger will create. It is an essential step toward achieving equality for all.”
Shelby Chestnut, Executive Director of the Transgender Law Center
Continuing the Legacy
Advocates for Trans Equality will build upon the life-saving policies and legal programs for which NCTE and TLDEF are known. The organization will maintain offices in both New York City and Washington, D.C., with staff working across the country. Their collective efforts will shape the future of transgender rights, ensuring that no one is left behind.
As the fight for equality continues, Advocates for Trans Equality stands as a beacon of hope, resilience, and progress. Together, they will champion the rights, dignity, and well-being of transgender individuals, leaving an indelible mark on history.
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