In the United States, there are more than 1.6 million individuals who identify as transgender, gender non-conforming, and/or non-binary (TGNCNB), inclusive of gender fluid and two-spirit individuals, hereafter referred to as the transgender community. The transgender community includes parents, family members, coworkers, neighbors, and friends. Despite progress in visibility, we must continue to advocate for basic human rights for transgender persons.
NYC Pride is and always will be committed to supporting and advocating for the trans community, working to ensure equal opportunities for success and progress for trans individuals. While advocates strive to address disparities, swift, sustainable, and equitable change is essential so that the trans community can have basic human rights and exist without fear.
The identities, physical forms, and life experiences of trans individuals are not open to political– or any debate. Individual identity is integral to every person’s quest for freedom, and every person deserves the safeguarding of basic human rights, enabling them to live and flourish without fear for their bodies or their existence.
Positive visibility in media and society plays a crucial role, but it also carries risks, particularly for those of marginalized identities, and especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community. At NYC Pride, we welcome and support trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, gender fluid, and two-spirit members and volunteers,and support organizations led by and focused on these communities. We partner with community groups who support efforts to eradicate anti-trans legislation, and who advocate for trans rights.
Unfortunately, the trans community continues to come under attack and an ongoing epidemic of violence, particularly affects Black and Brown trans women. It is crucial to celebrate and support all trans people, but we must also continue to combat misinformation, discrimination, and hate – and recognize that our identities and experiences are fundamental and deserving of protection.
