People who do not identify with the sex they were assigned at birth are three to six more times as likely to be neurodivergent as cisgender people, according to these studies. Some experts refer to this as a “double-minority” experience—but we know it as a beautiful, multifaceted way of experiencing the world.

On April 2nd, World Autism Awareness Day, we’re sharing love for all of our TGNC siblings on the spectrum. This day also kicks off a month-long campaign toward greater acceptance and appreciation of neurodiversity. 

Whether you are seeking an affirming therapist, a support group that understands your sensory needs, or simply a community that validates your entire self without asking you to mask, you are not alone. In this TransLash guide, we have compiled a comprehensive list of resources, organizations, and media dedicated to the intersection of being trans and on the spectrum.

General Overviews

The word ‘neurodiversity‘ was created as a term to describe a movement towards neurological diversity being accepted and respected in society. Neurodivergence includes those who live with Dyslexia, Autism, ADHD, Dyspraxia and other neurological realities.

“On the spectrum” usually refers to the specific set of behavioral and developmental realities associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A diagnosis of ASD means that a person’s communication, social, and play skills are affected in ways that aren’t coded as neurotypical. 

The Intersecting Realities of Neurodiversity and Gender

Finding safe, supportive spaces where you can be your authentic self is vitally important for life happiness and health. Unfortunately, many trans autistic individuals face unique systemic barriers, from healthcare providers who dismiss their gender identity due to their neurodivergence, to sensory-overwhelming environments in traditional LGBTQIA+ spaces.

Affirming care must address the whole person. The resources below are dedicated to providing support that respects the intertwined realities of being both trans and neurodivergent, ensuring that you don’t have to leave a part of your identity at the door.

National Organizations & Advocacy

When looking for systemic support, education, and advocacy, these organizations center the voices of autistic and neurodivergent queer folks:

• Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network (AWN): AWN provides community, support, and resources for autistic women, girls, transfeminine and transmasculine nonbinary people, and trans people of all genders. They frequently publish guides specifically tailored to trans autistic healthcare access, such as their guide on what to expect at the doctor.
• NeuroClastic: A collective of autistic individuals providing an inside look at the autistic identity. They have an extensive, intersectional catalog of articles and resources written by and for trans, non-binary, and queer autistic people.
• AANE (Asperger/Autism Network) LGBTQIA+ Resources: AANE provides online support groups specifically for LGBTQIA+ adults on the spectrum, offering a safe space to discuss the intersection of gender identity, sexual orientation, and neurodiversity.
• FORGE: While focused on reducing the impact of trauma on trans/non-binary survivors, FORGE actively provides neurodivergent-affirming practices and panels on the unique experiences of trans and Autistic people healing from trauma.

Mental Health & Affirming Care

Finding a therapist or medical provider who understands both gender dysphoria/euphoria and autistic traits is critical.

• National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network (NQTTCN): A healing justice organization committed to transforming mental health for queer and trans people of color (QTPOC). Their directory allows you to filter for providers experienced with neurodivergence.
• Inclusive Therapists: A directory that centers the needs of marginalized communities. You can specifically search for neurodiversity-affirming and trans-affirming therapists who do not practice applied behavior analysis (ABA) or other harmful modalities.
• Therapist Neurodiversity Collective: A global network of neurodiversity-affirming therapists, educators, and advocates. They are an excellent resource for finding professionals who respect autistic autonomy and gender identity.

Community Building & Peer Support

Sometimes, the best resource is simply talking to other people in similar situations.

• Trans Lifeline: Run completely by and for trans people, Trans Lifeline connects trans people to the community support and resources we need to survive and thrive. They offer a crisis hotline and peer support without non-consensual active rescue, making it a vital tether for trans autistic folks who may fear police involvement.
• Digital Peer Communities (Discord & Reddit): Digital spaces are often much more accessible for neurodivergent individuals. Subreddits and highly moderated Discord servers (searchable via platforms like Disboard using tags like “Autistic Trans” or “Neuroqueer”) provide low-pressure socialization and robust T4T (Trans-for-Trans) community building.

Content Creators, Media, & Books

Seeing yourself reflected in media is a powerful form of validation. Here are a few starting points:

• Unmasking Autism by Devon Price: Written by a transgender autistic author, this book is essential reading for understanding how masking affects marginalized groups, specifically queer and trans folks, and offers a roadmap to living authentically.
• Jessie Gender (YouTube): Jessie frequently discusses the intersection of being transgender, neurodivergent, and navigating the world, alongside deep dives into sci-fi and media analysis.
• Autism Weekly Podcast (Gender-Affirming Care Episodes): This podcast frequently hosts specialists, such as Ruchi Kapila, who focus on gender-affirming care (like voice therapy) specifically tailored for trans and autistic individuals. Listen on YouTube

You deserve spaces that celebrate your entire identity. Navigating the world as a trans person on the spectrum comes with unique hurdles, but it also introduces you to a profoundly vibrant, creative, and resilient community.

For more resources and stories that save trans lives, make sure to check out our other guides like the Trans Relocation Guide: Finding Trans Asylum and Safe Havens and the TransLash Guide to T4T Love. Subscribe to TransLash for alerts and updates.

Personal Experience Essays, Advice And Articles

Sometimes the most validating resources are the lived experiences of our peers. These essays and articles explore the beautiful, often complex realities of existing as both trans/queer and on the spectrum.

• Eve on Special Interests and Finding Your Place by Anonymous An intimate reflection on how neurodivergent “special interests” function not just as hobbies, but as vital tools for survival, self-soothing, and ultimately, finding a like-minded community where one’s queer and autistic self can thrive.
• Gendervague: At the Intersection of Autistic and Trans Experiences by Lydia X. Z. Brown In this foundational piece, Brown explores the concept of being “gendervague”—a term coined within the autistic community to describe a uniquely neurodivergent experience of gender. Brown beautifully articulates how their autism and gender identity are inextricably linked, noting that for many autistic folks, traditional, rigid gender binaries simply do not make sense.
• Growing up queer with Asperger’s by Austin Houck A candid personal essay that delves into the dual journey of coming to terms with an autism diagnosis while simultaneously navigating the coming-out process, highlighting the unique intersections of neurological and sexual discovery.
• How Our Society Harms Trans People Who Are Also Autistic by Katelyn Burns Burns dives into the systemic barriers that exist at the intersection of transness and autism. This piece highlights how the medical-industrial complex often weaponizes an autism diagnosis to gatekeep gender-affirming healthcare, dismissing the autonomy of neurodivergent trans individuals.
• I’m Autistic and I’m Sick of Feeling Excluded from Queer Spaces by Chrysanthe Tan A necessary exploration of how mainstream LGBTQIA+ spaces—often loud, crowded bars or sensorily overwhelming parades—unintentionally alienate those on the spectrum. Tan advocates for accessible, sensory-friendly community spaces where neurodivergent queer people can celebrate without suffering from sensory overload.
• “There are a lot of false assumptions made about autistic people, when it comes to sexuality and relationships.” by George Morl Through an insightful interview, artist and facilitator George Morl discusses the lack of intersectionality within queer culture. They break down the pervasive, infantilizing myths that autistic people do not experience complex sexuality or desire.
• Why I’m Proud To Be Queer and Autistic by Y Rai Jayne Powell A powerful manifesto on refusing to separate or mask parts of one’s identity, and instead embracing both queer and autistic labels with radical pride.

Scientific Studies

For those who want to look at the data, a growing body of research confirms what our community has known for a long time: gender diversity and neurodiversity overlap significantly.

• A comparison of gender diversity in transgender young people with and without autistic traits (The Lancet Regional Health / PubMed, 2024) Drawing from the Trans 20 cohort study, this research compared trans youth with and without autistic traits. Crucially, the study found that gender dysphoria was equally severe in both groups—debunking the gatekeeping myth that autistic youth are somehow “confused” about their gender. The findings advocate strongly that trans youth with autistic traits must be given the exact same opportunities to access life-saving gender-affirming care, while noting that some social transitions (like changing pronouns) are actually embraced at higher rates by neurodivergent youth.
• Transgender and gender-diverse autistic adolescents are at elevated risk of depression (Autism, 2025) This critical study analyzed a massive cohort of over 9,000 autistic adolescents. The researchers found that autistic youth who are also transgender or gender-diverse (TGD) experience profoundly higher rates of depression than their cisgender autistic peers. The study emphasizes that these elevated risks are heavily tied to the stigma, social rejection, and discrimination inherent in navigating the world with a “double-minority” identity, highlighting an urgent need for protective, affirming environments.
• Autism traits in transgender and gender-diverse adults seeking gender-affirming medical treatment (International Journal of Transgender Health, 2024) This paper explored the prevalence of autism traits specifically among adults actively seeking gender-affirming medical interventions. Interestingly, the researchers found that non-binary and genderqueer (NBGQ) adults reported significantly higher autism traits compared to strictly binary-identifying trans adults and cisgender adults. The study asserts that clinical guidelines must evolve to personalize care for autistic NBGQ individuals, respecting their specific support needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all medical model.
• Transidentities and autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review (Psychiatry Research, 2023) A comprehensive, systematic review of the global data regarding the co-occurrence of autism and trans identities. The authors synthesize various theories—including the idea that autistic individuals are simply less pressured to conform to arbitrary social gender norms. Most importantly, the review firmly concludes that being autistic is never a contraindication for gender-affirming treatment, and calls out the medical system for routinely discrediting the autonomy of trans autistic patients.
• Elevated rates of autism, other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric diagnoses, and autistic traits in transgender and gender-diverse individuals (Nature Communications, 2021) Widely considered the landmark modern study on this intersection, this massive data analysis from the University of Cambridge looked at over 600,000 individuals. It confirmed definitively that transgender and gender-diverse people are between three and six times more likely to be autistic than cisgender people. It serves as the foundational benchmark for the 2020s, proving that this intersection is a widespread, natural variation of human experience rather than an anomaly.

Trans And Queer People On The Spectrum To Follow (Updated for 2026)

Curating your social media feed to include voices that authentically reflect your own experiences is an incredible way to build passive community and combat isolation. Here are some of the most impactful trans, queer, and neurodivergent creators, activists, and writers to follow right now:

Dr. Devon Price | author and social psychologist Dr. Price is a transgender, autistic social psychologist and the author of the landmark book Unmasking Autism. His ongoing work on Substack and Instagram breaks down the exhaustion of masking, the realities of neurodivergent burnout, and how trans and autistic identities inherently rebel against rigid societal norms.

Follow: Instagram | Substack

Jessie Earl (Jessie Gender) | director, writer, and video essayist Jessie is a trans and autistic filmmaker and prominent YouTuber whose long-form video essays masterfully weave together media analysis (especially sci-fi and Star Trek), transgender advocacy, and the nuances of navigating the world as an autistic woman. Her recent work on Bluesky and YouTube remains a vital, compassionate resource for the neuroqueer community.

Follow: YouTube | Bluesky | Website

ChrisTiana ObeySumner | consultant, writer, and activist A Black, queer, non-binary, and multiply-disabled (autistic) thought leader. As the CEO of Epiphanies of Equity, they are a powerhouse in the consulting world, specializing in intersectionality, antiracism, and disability justice. Their social media presence offers profound, high-level insights into dismantling systemic ableism and transphobia.

Follow: Instagram | Website

Kayley Whalen | traveler, advocate, and creator Kayley is a transgender, autistic Latina who travels the world documenting the intersectional stories of transgender and neurodivergent people across different cultures and languages. Her vlog and Patreon offer a beautiful, global perspective on disability justice and trans joy.

Follow: YouTube | Patreon

Finn Gardiner | Director of Policy & Advocacy, The Autistic People of Color Fund Finn is a queer, Black, and disabled community organizer, researcher, and policy advocate. With a Master of Public Policy from Brandeis University, his work is essential for anyone wanting to understand the systemic side of disability justice, cognitive accessibility, and housing justice. He frequently translates dense, thorny policy matters into accessible language for the community.

Follow: The Autistic POC Fund

Lydia X. Z. Brown | advocate, organizer, and attorney A foundational voice in the neuroqueer movement. Lydia is a queer, disabled, East Asian attorney and the Director of Public Policy at the National Disability Institute. Their ongoing advocacy work and writing continue to provide essential frameworks for understanding the deep interconnections between neurodivergence, gender non-conformity, and systemic oppression.

Follow: Twitter/X | Website

Zavier Wileman | Storyteller and Writer Zavier is a queer, trans, and neurodivergent young writer making waves in the literary and theatre spaces. Their work focuses on storytelling from the heart and soul, providing a fresh, creative perspective on what it means to write from an intersectional identity.

• Follow: Centre for Stories Profile

Medical Resources

• Children’s National Medical Center Gender Development Program, Rockville, MD – The Gender Development Program is dedicated to supporting youth with gender and autism (or related conditions) through evaluations, consultation and a specialized ongoing support program.
• Working with LGBTQ Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Developmental Disabilities – If you’re a doctor looking to better understand ways to approach discussing gender with patients on the spectrum, the Children’s Hospital of Colorado offers these tips and tools. 

You deserve spaces that celebrate your entire identity. Navigating the world as a trans person on the spectrum comes with unique hurdles, but it also introduces you to a profoundly vibrant, creative, and resilient community.

For more resources and stories that save trans lives, make sure to check out our other guides like the Trans Relocation Guide: Finding Trans Asylum and Safe Havens and the TransLash Guide to T4T Love. Subscribe to TransLash for alerts and updates.

The post TransLash Guide for Trans People on the Spectrum appeared first on TransLash Media.

National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week: Promoting Equity and Inclusivity.

National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week was established by the National Coalition for LGBTQ Health, a leading organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community through advocacy, education, and research. 

The roots of this awareness week can be traced back to the LGBTQ health movement of the late 20th century, which aimed to shed light on the unique challenges and barriers faced by the community in obtaining affirming and culturally competent healthcare services. Building on this foundation, the National Coalition for LGBTQ Health launched National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week as a vital part of its mission to raise awareness, educate stakeholders, and advocate for policy changes to improve health outcomes for LGBTQ people across the United States.

Celebrated annually during the third week of March, this initiative aims to bring national attention to the specific health needs and disparities experienced by the LGBTQ population. It provides a platform for healthcare providers, policymakers, community organizations, and allies to engage in dialogue, share resources, and take action toward creating a more inclusive and equitable healthcare landscape for LGBTQ individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

By designating a dedicated week each year, the National Coalition for LGBTQ Health and its partners strive to raise public awareness, promote culturally competent care, and address the systemic barriers that contribute to health inequities for the LGBTQ community. Through a range of events, educational initiatives, and advocacy efforts, National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week aims to foster a healthcare environment that respects and affirms the identities and needs of LGBTQ patients. 

Alarming LGBTQ Statistics

• The LGBTQ community continues to face significant health disparities and challenges compared to their non-LGBTQ counterparts. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), LGBTQ individuals are at an increased risk for various mental health issues, substance abuse, and certain chronic conditions.
• Mental Health: LGBTQ individuals are at a significantly higher risk for mental health issues than their heterosexual counterparts. The Trevor Project’s 2024 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health found that 39% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year — including 46% of transgender and nonbinary young people. This is nearly four times the rate among heterosexual youth. 
• HIV/AIDS: The CDC reports that gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV, accounting for 71% of all new HIV diagnoses in the United States in 2022. 
• Access to Healthcare: LGBTQ individuals often face barriers to healthcare, including discrimination, lack of culturally competent care, and insurance issues. A 2020 survey by the Center for American Progress found that more than 1 in five LGBTQ adults postponed or avoided medical treatment due to discrimination fears. 
• Substance Use: According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), LGBTQ people are more likely to use alcohol and drugs, have higher rates of substance abuse, and are less likely to abstain from drug use compared to their heterosexual counterparts. 
• Cancer: Lesbian and bisexual women are less likely to get preventive services for cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Gay men are at a higher risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections that can increase the risk of certain cancers like anal cancer.
• Youth Homelessness: LGBTQ youth are disproportionately represented among the homeless population. LGBTQ+ youth are 120% more likely to face homelessness than their peers, while Black youth are 83% and Latine youth are 33% more likely, according to the True Colors United organization. 

What is Trans Affirming Healthcare?

Trans-affirming healthcare refers to a comprehensive approach that fully supports and affirms the gender identities of transgender and non-binary individuals. It encompasses two key aspects:

Gender-Affirming Care for Transitioning

Gender-affirming care involves medical interventions to help align an individual’s physical characteristics with their gender identity. This can include:

• Hormone therapy (estrogen or testosterone)
• Surgical procedures like breast augmentation/removal, facial feminization, or genital reconstruction
• Fertility preservation options
• Mental health support and counseling
• The goal is to provide transgender individuals the means to transition and live authentically as their true selves, which can greatly improve mental health and overall wellbeing.

Inclusive Healthcare Environment

Beyond transition-related care, trans affirming healthcare ensures transgender individuals receive respectful, inclusive treatment in any healthcare setting. This means:

• Using correct names and pronouns
• Understanding unique health risks and needs
• Providing bias-free care without discrimination
• Ensuring patients feel safe and respected
• Even for basic services like annual check-ups or flu shots, trans people deserve an affirmation of their identity and gender. No one should face being misgendered or subjected to an unsafe environment simply for seeking medical care.

Creating a truly trans affirming healthcare system requires cultural competency training, inclusive policies, and an organizational commitment to respecting all gender identities and expressions. This allows transgender patients to access comprehensive, high-quality care in an environment of trust and affirmation, regardless of where they are in their gender journey. 

Transgender Healthcare Advocates to Follow

1. Kai Potts

Kai Potts (he/him), known as @ohkairyn on social media, is a dynamic Two-Spirit Nakoda advocate, content creator, and performer from Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation. As a prominent voice for Indigenous LGBTQ+ rights, Kai fearlessly shares his journey and experiences to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by Two-Spirit individuals. Through his engaging and informative content on TikTok and Instagram, where he has amassed over 500k and 90k followers respectively, Kai educates his audience about the importance of decolonization, cultural preservation, and inclusive healthcare for Indigenous communities. His inspiring advocacy work has earned him recognition as an influential leader in the fight for Two-Spirit visibility and equality. Follow Kai on TikTok @ohkairyn and Instagram @ohkairyn to learn more about Two-Spirit identity, Indigenous rights, and how to support the well-being of Indigenous LGBTQ+ people.

2. Chase Strangio

Chase Strangio is a trailblazing transgender rights lawyer and activist serving as Deputy Director for Transgender Justice at the ACLU’s LGBTQ & HIV Project. He has been lead counsel on groundbreaking Supreme Court cases like EEOC v. Harris Funeral Homes, which secured workplace protections for transgender people, and represented high-profile clients like Chelsea Manning and Gavin Grimm in their fights for civil liberties. Strangio has co-authored guidance on best practices for protecting trans people’s rights in schools, prisons and more. Widely recognized as an expert commentator, he continues using his legal platform and advocacy to blaze trails toward full equity and inclusion for transgender and non-binary individuals. Follow him on Twitter @chasestrangio and Instagram @chase_strangio. 

3. Devin-Norelle

is a Black transgender model, advocate, and writer who has become a powerful voice in the fight for transgender rights and body positivity. As a non-binary individual, Devin-Norelle uses zir platform to raise awareness about gender identity, inclusivity, and self-love. Through thought-provoking posts on social media and features in prominent publications like Vogue and The New York Times, ze educates audiences about issues facing the transgender community, particularly at the intersection of race and gender identity. Devin-Norelle also advocates for equitable access to healthcare and mental health resources for transgender individuals. Follow Devin-Norelle on Instagram @steroidbeyonce to learn more about non-binary identity, transgender rights, and body positivity.

4. Charlie Amáyá Scott

Charlie Amáyá Scott (they/them) is a powerful Diné transgender scholar and advocate dedicated to educating others about Two-Spirit identity, Indigenous rights, and decolonization. As a former Gates Millennium Scholar and current doctoral student in American Indian Studies, Charlie brings a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to their advocacy work. Through engaging content on TikTok and Instagram, they celebrate the rich history and resilience of Two-Spirit individuals while shedding light on the struggles faced by Indigenous LGBTQ+ communities. Charlie incorporates their Navajo heritage into their work, preserving ancestral knowledge and creating a sense of pride and belonging for other Two-Spirit individuals. Their tireless efforts to promote understanding, equality, and justice have made them a respected leader in the fight for social change. Follow Charlie Amáyá Scott on TikTok and Instagram @dineaesthetics to learn more about Two-Spirit identity, Indigenous rights, and the importance of decolonization in achieving true equality for all

5. Ashlee Marie Preston

Ashley Marie Preston is a prominent Black transgender activist, media personality, and journalist who has made significant strides in advocating for transgender rights, racial equality, and HIV/AIDS awareness. As a survivor of sexual assault and homelessness, Ashlee uses her platform to shed light on the intersectional challenges faced by marginalized communities. She made history as the first openly transgender person to run for state office in California and has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Rolling Stone. Ashlee’s powerful voice and unwavering commitment to social justice have earned her recognition as one of the most influential LGBTQ+ activists of our time. She continues to inspire and empower others through her work as a public speaker, writer, and host of the podcast “Shook with Ashlee Marie Preston.” Follow Ashlee on Instagram @ashleemariepreston and to stay informed about her ongoing efforts to create positive change and advocate for the rights of transgender individuals and people of color.

6. Alok Vaid-Menon

Alok is a globally renowned gender non-conforming writer, performer, and advocate whose work explores themes of trauma, belonging, and the human condition. With a captivating presence both on and off stage, Alok uses poetry, comedy, and fashion to challenge societal norms and inspire others to embrace their authentic selves. Their groundbreaking advocacy has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times, National Geographic, and Vogue. As a mixed-race, transgender, and non-binary individual, Alok brings a unique perspective to their activism, highlighting the intersections of gender, race, and identity. They have performed in over 40 countries, using their art as a tool for social change and empowerment. Alok’s bestselling book, “Beyond the Gender Binary,” offers a powerful exploration of gender fluidity and the liberation that comes with living authentically. Through their work, Alok continues to inspire a global movement towards acceptance, self-love, and the celebration of diversity. Follow Alok on Instagram @alokvmenon to experience their transformative art, thought-provoking insights, and ongoing advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community.

7. Tiq Milan

Tiq is a groundbreaking Black transgender activist, writer, and public speaker whose work has been instrumental in advancing transgender equality and raising awareness about issues facing the Black LGBTQ+ community. As a former journalist and media strategist, Tiq has used his platform to amplify the voices of marginalized individuals and advocate for social justice. He has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times, The Root, and EBONY, and has appeared on national television networks such as CNN and MSNBC. Tiq’s powerful storytelling and ability to bridge gaps between communities have made him a sought-after speaker and consultant for organizations seeking to create more inclusive environments. He co-authored the book “What Becomes You,” which explores his journey as a transgender man and the intersections of race, gender, and identity. Through his tireless advocacy, Tiq continues to inspire and empower others to live their truth and fight for equality. Follow Tiq on Instagram @themrmilan to stay informed about his ongoing work to promote transgender rights and racial justice.

8. Chella Man 

Chella is a Deaf, genderqueer, Jewish person of color who has emerged as a powerful voice and representation for the intersections of the transgender, Deaf, and disability communities. An accomplished artist, author, and activist, Chella uses his various creative platforms to share his experiences, raise awareness, and advocate for greater equity and inclusion. His highly-acclaimed book “Continuum” delves into his life as a genderqueer person navigating intersecting identities. Chella’s artwork and social media presence have made him a celebrated figure, particularly inspiring Deaf/Trans youth by boldly living his truth. Through speeches, interviews, and multimedia projects, Chella amplifies the narratives of underrepresented groups while promoting acceptance of diverse gender identities and expressions. Follow Chella’s impactful work on Instagram @chellaman

Recent Anti-LGBTQ Bills

​In recent years, there has been a significant increase in legislation across various states aimed at limiting the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ individuals. These bills, introduced and sometimes enacted into law, encompass a range of issues from healthcare to education and public accommodations, profoundly affecting the lives and well-being of LGBTQ+ people.​

Recent Anti-LGBTQ+ Bills (2024–2025)

The following is a summary of notable anti-LGBTQ+ legislation from 2024 to 2025:

1. Iowa SF 418 (2025 – Passed): Removes gender identity as a protected class under the state’s civil rights act, effectively eliminating anti-discrimination protections for transgender individuals in areas such as housing, employment, and public accommodations.​
   
2. Kentucky HB 495 (2025 – Passed): Protects conversion therapy practices and prohibits the use of Medicaid funds for gender-affirming healthcare for transgender residents.​
   
3. Utah HB 77 (2025 – Passed): Bans the display of Pride flags in state government buildings, limiting the representation of LGBTQ+ symbols in public spaces.​
   
4. Ohio HB SB104 (2024 – Passed): Restricts transgender students from using bathrooms aligning with their gender identity in educational institutions from kindergarten through college.​
   
5. South Carolina S 627 (2024 – Passed): Bans gender-affirming care for minors and requires school staff to inform parents if a student wishes to use a different name or pronouns.​
   
6. New Hampshire HB 619 (2024 – Passed): Prohibits gender-affirming genital surgeries for minors while allowing other forms of gender-affirming care.​
   
7. Kansas SB 63 (2025 – Passed): Bans gender-affirming care for minors, with a requirement to cease existing treatments by December 31, 2025.​
   
8. Texas SB 14 (2024 – Passed): Prohibits gender-affirming medical care for minors, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy, with penalties for healthcare providers who violate the law.​
   
9. Florida SB 254 (2024 – Passed): Revokes the medical licenses of healthcare providers who administer gender-affirming treatments to transgender patients of any age.​
   
10. Wyoming HB 152 (2024 – Passed): Criminalizes the provision of gender-affirming healthcare to minors, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy.​
    

Implications of Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation

These legislative actions have significant consequences:

• Healthcare Access: Bans on gender-affirming care for minors restrict access to medically necessary treatments endorsed by major medical associations, potentially leading to adverse mental and physical health outcomes.​
  
• Educational Environment: Policies requiring school staff to disclose a student’s transgender status to parents or restricting bathroom access can create unwelcoming and unsafe environments for LGBTQ+ students.​
  
• Civil Rights Protections: Removing gender identity from protected classes under civil rights laws diminishes legal protections against discrimination, affecting various aspects of daily life for transgender individuals.​
  
• Symbolic Representation: Bans on displaying Pride flags in public buildings reduce the visibility and acknowledgment of LGBTQ+ communities, potentially fostering exclusion.​
  

This wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation underscores the importance of awareness and advocacy in protecting the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals.

Trans-Centered Resource List

Medical and Healthcare Information

• World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH): Provides clinical guidance for health professionals to deliver care to trans and gender-nonconforming individuals, including the Standards of Care for the Health of Transsexual, Transgender, and Gender Nonconforming People.
  
• Transgender Care Listings (Transcaresite.org): A directory of healthcare providers experienced in providing gender-affirming medical care to transgender patients.

Mental Health Support

• The Trevor Project: Offers crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth under 25, including a 24/7 crisis hotline, chat, and text service.
  
• Trans Lifeline: A grassroots hotline and microgrants organization offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis.

Legal Assistance and Advocacy

• Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE): Advocates for policy changes that promote the equality and well-being of transgender individuals.

Lambda Legal: a nonprofit organization that focuses on the civil rights of LGBTQ+ people and individuals living with HIV. Founded in 1973, it provides legal advocacy, impact litigation, and public education to fight discrimination and advance equality.

Health Insurance and Financial Assistance

• Healthcare.gov – Transgender Health Care: Offers information about health coverage options for transgender people through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace.
• Jim Collins Foundation: Provides financial assistance to transgender individuals for gender-affirming surgeries.

Peer Support and Community

• MyTransHealth: A resource designed to connect transgender people with qualified and compassionate healthcare providers.
• Gender Spectrum: Provides education, training, and support to help create a gender-inclusive world for all children and youth.

Trans Facilities

• Callen-Lorde Community Health Center: Offers comprehensive healthcare services tailored to New York’s LGBTQ+ community, including transgender health services. 
• TransThrive through San Francisco Community Health Center: Provides comprehensive support and healthcare services for the transgender community in San Francisco. 

The post TransLash’s Guide to National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week appeared first on TransLash Media.

This op-ed is the first in a series of pieces through our TransLash News and Narrative platform, launching in 2022. Subscribe for alerts. For more #TransBodiesTransChoices content, explore our film series guides for My Abortion Saved My Life and I Didn’t Think I’d Make It.

My own experiences with annual gynecological exams as a trans person have been consistently negative. I had grown accustomed to the base level of discomfort and fear—until my most recent visit. Feeling out of place usually starts in waiting rooms or during intakes. While gender nonconforming language in waiting room literature and on intake forms are not guarantees of trans competent care, these introductory elements can either include me or alienate me. At many offices, I was required to select “male” or “female” for my gender, leaving me totally unsure of what to do. I would be asked, “If you’re a woman, could you be pregnant?” The question made me feel invisible because I am not a woman, but I still have the ability to get pregnant. At the visit where I felt safest, the waiting room was full of information for people of all genders. The forms allowed me to indicate that I am trans and nonbinary, and medical questions related to specific body parts—not to gender. 

During regular intakes, I would typically be asked about my last menstrual cycle. Even before starting testosterone I had a highly irregular cycle and felt deep dysphoria about my period. When explaining why I didn’t know when the last period was, nurses often seemed surprised or annoyed. However, during my most recent visit where I felt welcomed, the person I met with asked questions about my experiences and needs as a trans person. She had a clear understanding of testosterone and simply asked if I ever bled during my menstrual cycle anymore. It was the first time I felt like I was going to get gynecological care that made my body feel accepted. 

But OBGYN visits weren’t the triggers for my dysphoria.

It was years before I realized that I was having dysphoria about my chest. This is why breast exams made me so uncomfortable. Every visit, without fail, I would laugh nervously and start to feel nauseated while the person doing my exam pressed their hands into my breasts. I would apologize for how nervous I was, but the examiner would say “you’re just ticklish,” or ignore what I was saying completely which left me even more anxious. This pattern continued after I came out. No providers ever offered any kind of solution or support.

During my recent gender-affirming visit, the registered nurse had me place my hand on top of hers and take deep breaths throughout the breast exam to lessen the sensation of surprise. For the first time, my body relaxed. I was able to get through it without any nausea or uncomfortable laughter. When I realized how simple the solution to my anxiety was I felt relieved and disappointed in every other provider I had been to. For trans people who often experience body dysphoria and have high rates of sexual trauma, going to a gynecologist for an annual exam can be anywhere from triggering to downright retraumatizing. According to a 2015 study of over 27,000 trans people across the United States, 47% of respondents had been sexually assaulted in their lifetime. One-third of these respondents also reported having a negative experience with a health care provider as a result of being trans. While I don’t know exactly where this nurse learned trans-affirming and trauma-informed approaches, there are plenty of resources that provide information on trans-specific health care needs and alternatives to standard testing procedures. 

In a study referenced in the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ page on Health Care for Transgender and Gender Diverse Individuals, transmasculine patients expressed an overwhelming preference (90%+) for self-collected vaginal swabs. A training module from Michigan Medicine describes some of the potential impacts of hormones and encourages providers to discuss options for testing with patients, like self-insertion of the speculum. The University of California San Francisco Gender Affirming Health Program provides a variety of techniques for providers to establish trust and perform pelvic exams, like using a mirror so patients can directly observe and checking with patients about their preferred language for their body parts. Additionally, examiners should clearly communicate what they are going to do before interacting with patients. Patients should have an opportunity to process these requests and verbally consent to each part of an exam. 

The registered nurse who provided a safe and comfortable exam for me demonstrated that she had a comprehensive clinical understanding of my needs, but also showed patience and empathy in her approach. She took time to listen to and acknowledge my previous negative experiences, and when she did, it felt like she made an effort to begin healing the wounds caused by medical institutions. She had a conversation with me about how we could proceed, asked me if I felt ready to move forward, and reminded me that I could stop the exam at any time. 

This is another crucial element of trans-affirming and trauma-informed care.

Medical professionals should slow down and clearly ask what the patient’s experiences with medical exams have been in the past. While some patients may know exactly what they need and be able to express it, others may not. With a strong understanding of trans-specific and trauma-informed health care, medical professionals can provide positive care to those who do not have specific requests by using good communication and giving as much control to the patient as possible throughout the exam. The opportunity to discuss safety at home is important, but some patients may also need the support of a partner, relative, close friend in the room, or on the phone. 

The stakes are high when gender-affirming care is inaccessible. Annual breast and pelvic exams are opportunities to screen for multiple types of cancer in addition to STD testing. When these are not caught early, they can develop into issues that are much harder to treat. It is essential that medical professionals stay up to date on their continuing education. 

For the safety and wellness of trans people, providers must adopt a trans-affirming and trauma-informed approach to annual exams because it can save our lives.

Trans Bodies, Trans Choices: Resources

Trans Bodies, Trans Choices Films

• Watch I Didn’t Think I’d Make It here and access the transcript.
• Watch My Abortion Saved My Life here and access the transcript.
• Watch the Trans Bodies, Trans Choices: Having a Baby IG Live replay here and access the transcript.
• Watch the #TransBodiesTransChoices Online Townhall replay here and access the transcript.

Getting an Abortion

• Under 18 and need an abortion + free legal representation for judicial bypass? Call or text Jane’s Due Process: 1-866-999-5263
• The National Network of Abortion Funds connects abortion seekers with grassroots organizations that can support financial and logistical needs here
• Tips on how to choose a good abortion provider and questions to ask a clinic
• The Brigid Alliance arranges and funds travel, along with related needs, to support individuals across the country who are forced to travel for later abortion care. 

For Clinicians and Providers 

• Trans-Inclusive Abortion Services: a manual for providers on operationalizing trans-incluslive policies and practices in an abortion setting 

Calls to Action

• Sign on and Demand #AbortionWithinReach: Abortion funds have come together to deliver an unprecedented bold statement, explicitly identifying what it means for abortion to be truly accessible for our callers. As we shine a light on these demands, we also want to spotlight independent clinics, who are our partners on the front lines giving support and care to abortion seekers. Independent clinics perform the majority of abortions in the U.S., and show up big as plaintiffs in the monumental cases of the past few years. 
• Expand the Supreme Court & Save Abortion Rights. Sign the petition here.
• Urge federal elected officials to end the Hyde Amendment, the Global Gag Rule, and the Helms Amendment. Learn more and take action to expressly urge support for the EACH Act, the Global Health, Empowerment, & Rights Act, and the Abortion is Healthcare Everywhere Act. 
• Invest in abortion clinics, especially community-led health care facilities. 
• Talk about abortion! Change culture and shift stigma through powerful, values-based conversations. We believe dialogue, storytelling, and intentional conversations are powerful tools to organize and strengthen our movement. This guide for heart-to-heart abortion conversations from NNAF   and this toolkit from Chicago Abortion Fund will support you to hold a small group gathering, house party, or action space where you can invite your friends, family, and acquaintances into meaningful conversations about abortion, issues that relate to abortion, and why you support abortion funds.
• Support the Black reproductive justice policy agenda, which outlines proactive policy solutions to address issues at the intersections of race, gender, class, sexual orientation, and gender identity within the situational impacts of economics, politics and culture that make up the lived experiences of Black women, femmes, girls and gender-expansive individuals in the United States.

• Invest in long-term sustainable models of care that supplement existing structures of support and center the expertise of those who have been laying this groundwork for years so that communities have reliable support systems that contribute to one’s current and future ability to thrive. 
• We urge all individuals knowledgeable about a person’s reproductive choices to make a commitment to not – under any circumstances – punish, criminalize or report any person for any pregnancy decision or seeking medical assistance for a decision. This includes abortion funders, public health authorities, clinicians, law enforcement, prosecutors, and community members.

Resources on Pregnancy as a Transgender Person

• The Queer & Trans People of Color Birthwerq Project
• BOOK: How We Do Family: From Adoption to Trans Pregnancy, What We Learned about Love and LGBTQ Parenthood by Trystan Reese
• Meet the birth workers helping transgender parents bring babies into the world and break stigmas.
• Preparing for Pregnancy as a Non-Binary Person (Family Equality)
• Transgender Pregnancy: Moving Past Misconceptions (Healthline)
• From erasure to opportunity: a qualitative study of the experiences of transgender men around pregnancy and recommendations for providers.
• TransLash Podcast, Episode 13 ‘Trans Love’ feat. Precious Brady-Davis, who appeared with her husband Myles on the TLC special, My Pregnant Husband.
• If a transgender man stops taking his testosterone, his menstrual cycle often returns, reportedly within about 6 months.
• Explore TransLash’s guide for trans dads and TGNC parents.

‘Trans Bodies, Trans Choices’ Press

• Teen Vogue [EXCLUSIVE]

Featured image courtesy of Broadly’s Gender Spectrum Collection.

Alex is a trans and sober 29-year-old living in Alaska with their partner, their cat, and their dog.  After graduating from law school and getting licensed as an attorney during the pandemic, Alex quit working as a lawyer. Since then, Alex has started working on a local farm, writing, and providing child care. Follow Alex on Twitter: @alexpetkanas

Did you find this resource helpful? Consider supporting TransLash today with a tax-deductible donation.

The post Finally Feeling Comfortable: The Necessity of Trans-Affirming, Trauma-Informed Care appeared first on TransLash Media.

Cannabis is an incredible gift for so many reasons—and  you don’t have to get high to tap into the blessings. On 4/20 and beyond, cannabis can offer an array of benefits from managing pain and physical ailments to helping with sleep disorders, from supporting creativity to providing mental health relief. Check out our trans-affirming guide to cannabis below and have a great 420!

420: What You Need to Know

In 1971, five teens in San Rafael, California, used the term “4:20” while coming up with a plan to find an abandoned cannabis crop, based on a treasure map made by the grower. High Times  popularized the story of the Waldos and the term eventually reached the mainstream through Grateful Dead followers after a roadie named Reddix called for 4:20 pm to be the socially accepted time of the day to consume cannabis.

Cannabis Action Network, a reform organization associated with High Times, is often credited for associating the date April 20 and 420 with political and cultural protest, organizing rallies on that date and assisting other groups in setting up other events. Since then, April 20 has become an international counter-culture holiday based on the celebration and consumption of cannabis.

Vivian McPeak, a founder of Seattle’s Hempfest, states that 4/20 is “half celebration and half call to action.”

Some people assume that hemp and marijuana are two different species of plant, with marijuana being the black sheep of the two, but that’s not the case! They’re actually just two different names for cannabis, a type of flowering plant from the Cannabaceae family.

As explained on healthline.com, while science doesn’t differentiate between “hemp” and “marijuana,” the law does: legally, the key difference between the two is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content.

THC is one of the many cannabinoids (chemicals) found in the cannabis plant. It’s also the one that’s primarily responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis, but you don’t need to get high to enjoy the benefits of cannabis! Folks should use discernment about how and when to incorporate the cannabis plant into their lives. 

Cannabis Glossary

Cannabis can be especially beneficial for the trans community, considering the immense difficulties and structural barriers trans people face. 

We should leverage all of nature’s blessings on our healing journeys, plus sober babes can still benefit from cannabis’ diverse range of healthy offerings.

Here is a mini cannabis glossary to get you started:

Hemp: a term used to define cannabis that contains 0.3 percent or less of THC content by dry weight. This definition was first proposed in 1979, in a book called “The Species Problem in Cannabis: Science & Semantics.” This number was used in the legal definition of hemp, as specified in the Agricultural Act of 2018 and other laws in the United States. 

People don’t typically get high ingesting or smoking hemp on 420 or any other day, because the THC level in hemp is so low. 

Hemp has so many wonderful applications to help make the world a better place; it is often used to create environmentally-friendly products such as rope, plastics, paper, building materials, biofuel, consumer goods like backpacks, textiles / clothing, laundry detergent, beauty supplies, pet products, food products, and more.

Hemp essential oils are even used therapeutically to address medical conditions such as sleep disorders, chronic pain, various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, and for other wellness plan needs.

Marijuana: the type of cannabis that can get you kind of high or very high, depending on the strain and your tolerance. This term is often used interchangeably with “weed” and other slang terms. Legally, “marijuana” is defined as cannabis that has more than 0.3 percent THC by dry weight & THC content can vary among cannabis plants, as many TV shows and movies have creatively illustrated.

Currently in the United States, the forms of cannabis that get you high are legal in 38 of 50 states for medical use and in 24 states for recreational use.

But be careful: marijuana is still illegal under federal law, but most folks in the USA now live in a state that has legalized it, and most also have at least one cannabis dispensary in their county.

Cannabis plants that get you high have been designated usually as sativa (generally uplifting), indica (induce sleepiness), or hybrid (mixed bag). There is a lot of anecdotal evidence that each of these has its own reported characteristics and effects, although science has yet to officially verify this. Okay, science.

Cannabidiol (CBD): many an elder millennial with back pain can attest to the medicinal (without getting you high) benefits of CBD, which has become increasingly popular since hemp was federally legalized in 2018. While CBD is found in some amount in all cannabis plants, CBD products are only federally legal if they’re derived from hemp that contains less than 0.3 percent THC. 

Some examples of CBD edible/ingestible products include oils that many people claim reduce inflammation and physical aches, along with gummies and tablets to address anxiety and overall mood. You can also use CBD topically: as oils, lotions, roll-ons, and more to support a range of medical needs.

Cannabis Industry: we’re talking about an old & profitable plant! Cannabis has been around since over 12,000 years ago. Today the cannabis industry is composed of legal cultivators and producers, consumers, independent industrial standards bodies, related products and services, regulators and researchers devoted to understanding and monetizing cannabis and its industrial derivative, hemp.

Unfortunately, the cannabis industry’s mellow has been harshed by regulatory restrictions for most of history, and in the USA, cannabis remains illegal on the federal level. But the legal market worldwide has emerged rapidly as more governments legalize medical and adult use.

Internationally, Uruguay became the first country to legalize recreational marijuana through legislation in December, 2013. Canada followed suit, becoming the first country to legalize private sales of recreational marijuana with Bill C-45 in 2018.

Back in the United States, today recreational use of marijuana is legal in 23 states and Washington, D.C. Additionally, in 37 states, medicinal use of marijuana is legal for specific patients.

Marijuana laws in the USA have changed a lot the last few decades and will likely continue to do so, so it’s important to remain aware of the risks of consuming cannabis on a state-by-state basis.

The United States’s relationship with marijuana dates back to the Colonial Era. However, during World War II, imports of hemp and other materials became crucial for producing marine cordage, parachutes, and other military necessities became scarce. This is when the cannabis industry had one of its bigger historical moments in the sun.

In response to the World War II need, the U.S. Department of Agriculture launched its “Hemp for Victory” program, encouraging farmers to plant hemp by giving out seeds and granting draft deferments to those who would stay home and grow hemp. By 1943 American farmers registered in the program harvested 375,000 acres of hemp.

After a lot of racism-fueled nonsense, the US Agricultural Act of 2014, known as the Farm Bill, allowed hemp production under pilot projects administered by state departments of agriculture and executed by state universities. In 2018 hemp was further defined as an agricultural commodity and removed from the controlled substances list.

This slow progress eventually created a pathway for the commercialization of cannabis/hemp production, which has led to the progressive evolution of what cannabis is today: an almost $40B industry in 2024. That’s a lot of flower and over 400,000 cannabis industry jobs!

420 Tea: How Does Cannabis Benefit Trans Folks?

While everyone has their own relationship to the plant, many TGNC folks have been vocal about the benefits of cannabis; from helping to reduce gender dysphoria, PTSD symptoms, cultivating body positivity, and even enhancing our sex lives. 

Activist and actress Blossom Brown has also written about marijuana’s benefits for trans folks and noted how the community is a major customer base of the industry.

Support Trans People on 420

According to Gallup, half (50%) of Americans say they have tried marijuana at some time. For those of us who use THC, CBD, and hemp products, why not put $5 (or more) on trans cannabis-based businesses? 420 is a great day to support trans folks in cannabis!

The above video features Renee Gagnon, a transgender woman and founder of HollyWeed, a cannabis brand based in California. She’s a pioneer and one of several out trans people who have been grinding in the cannabis industry.

Beyond Renee, let’s give more trans folks their flower(s): below is a list of 5 TGNC people who are making moves and opened doors for TGNC folks in the cannabis industry. From a Black, nonbinary-owned wellness company that supports its local Oakland community to a CBD brand co-founded by a Texas trans man, we hope you’ll find what you’ve been looking for! 

Chris Wakefield and KaliMa Amilak of Brown Sugar Botanicals

Brown Sugar Botanicals is a Black, queer, trans, and nonbinary-owned company with herbal and CBD products based in Oakland, California. Founded by Chris Wakefield and KaliMa Amilak, two Black, queer, and non-binary entrepreneurs, Brown Sugar Botanicals specializes in “disaporic healing for modern lifestyles.”

What that means for Wakefield and Amilak is approaching holistic wellness in the CBD arena with a deep awareness of the ways “people of the African diaspora are disproportionately affected by healthcare disparities and discrimination,” per an Instagram post. The online brand is all about putting ethics over profit and building wealth for the local Oakland community. Wakefield and Amilak achieve that by doing what few other CBD wellness brands do — intentionally sourcing their products from Black, brown, queer, and trans growers. 

Brown Sugar Botanicals’ online shop is currently under construction, but you can follow them on Instagram for updates. Don’t miss their informational IG posts about the benefits of CBD for a variety of things like Fibromyalgia, mental health, and COVID.

Zooey Zachow of Ritual Cannabis

Ritual Cannabis, a farm located in Windham County, Vermont, was co-founded by CEO Zooey Zachow. A trans woman and U.S. Army veteran, Zachow suffered from a neck injury and PTSD after returning from Iraq. Upon learning about how cannabis helped other vets manage their pain and symptoms, Zachow gave it a try. Weed, she told VICE back in 2016, saved her life. It also completely changed the course of her career. Zachow became a cannabis entrepreneur, opening up her first medical cannabis collective in 2011, according to Cannabis Now, and then finally started her farm, Ritual Cannabis. Initially based in eastern Washington, Zachow’s farm recently relocated to the forests of Vermont with a focus on using “natural, organic, and biodynamic practices.”

“Being a trans woman in the cannabis industry has been profoundly difficult and exhausting,” Zachow told grower magazine Big Buds in 2019. “At the same time, I know this industry is one of the few I would have the opportunity to be a leader in.”

While Ritual Cannabis doesn’t currently have a website, you can check out their Instagram for updates on sprouting cannabis seedlings across the farm.

Jordyn Pollack of Ziggy’s Naturals

Entrepreneur, social influencer, and trans man Jordyn Pollack is one of the co-founders of his family-owned CBD brand, Ziggy’s Naturals. The entire company is a true family affair, as Pollack started it with his father Marc and brother Jake, and even named the brand after his wife, Ziggy. Based in Austin, Texas, the brand specializes in purely organic, Full Spectrum CBD products such as CBD tinctures, gummies, muscle gels, and salves. On top of that they also offer a variety of Delta-9 products and pet-safe CBD tinctures.

In an interview with Collabs.io Pollack said Ziggy’s, which largely caters to an LGBTQ+ customer base, represents more than a CBD company. “We stand for family, love, and pride for all,” he said. “We like to show the community that we are here to support them in all ways we can, by hosting events, raising money, and many more things.” 

Check out Ziggy’s Naturals’ Instagram for recipe posts, like a mocktail using their Delta-9 syrup, and head to the online shop for a current sale on a CBD topical gift box.

Laganja Estranja, the ‘Queen of Weed’

While the trans drag artist may be known to most as a Drag Race alum, Laganja Estranja is also celebrated for her love of weed and cannabis advocacy. The plant itself has informed everything from her name to her green-infused, mary jane-centric drag looks. She’s even teamed up with multiple brands to launch 420 products, including a skin care line of hemp CBD-infused potions with Honey Pot CBD.

Laganja Estranja has notably been vocal about her personal experience with cannabis, sharing the ways it’s improved her mental health and even how her relationship with weed changed when she started HRT. The drag performer has also spoken about the importance of decriminalization and the need to give back to Black and brown folks who are disproportionately arrested and incarcerated for cannabis possession. “There’s a lot more work to do,” she told PinkNews in 2021, “because we need to free our brothers and sisters — particularly those of color — from jail, and create more space within cannabis activism for queer and gender non-conforming people to feel safe.”

Check out her YouTube channel for her latest cannabis brand partnerships and a new music video dropping on, fittingly, 4/20.

420 Racism: The Intersection of Blackness and Transness

When we talk about 420, it’s important to remember that there is enormous privilege involved in being able to walk around in public lighting up a joint, unafraid of police violence or arrest.

Trans people don’t share the exact same privileges and experiences with systems of oppression, and Black trans people in America have been disproportionally arrested and incarcerated for possessing, distributing, and selling cannabis when compared to white cisgender people.

A nug of history: in 1971, President Richard Nixon declared a “war on drugs” that was essentially a targeted war on Black communities.

The 50+ year “war on drugs” has imprisoned millions of Black people in United States.

Many Black trans and cis people remain incarcerated for doing things with cannabis products that white entrepreneurs are getting VC funding and media accolades for today. The cannabis industry should center Black trans people to ensure an equitable industry for all.

Regardless of how you choose to purchase and use cannabis, consider ways to support Black trans and cis people in cannabis; allyship takes many forms. Happy 420!

Did you find this resource helpful? Consider supporting TransLash today with a tax-deductible donation. Did we miss anything? Let us know!

The post 420 and the Cannabis Industry: a Trans-Affirming Guide appeared first on TransLash Media.

In celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, Imara learns more about the politics and lived experiences of being autistic and trans. She’s joined by influential social psychologist and author of the books “Unmasking Autism” and “Unlearning Shame,” Devon Price. During their wide-ranging conversation, the two dive into the complexity around defining what autism is, how the far right exploits stigma around autism against trans people, and the intricacies of self-diagnosis. 

The post Being Autistic and Trans appeared first on TransLash Media.

By Daniela “Dani” Capistrano for TransLash Media

What is National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day?

According to POZ, nearly half of young people living with HIV don’t know their status.

National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day (NYHAAD), held annually on April 10th, is a day to educate the public about the impact of HIV and AIDS on young people. The day also highlights the HIV prevention, treatment, and care campaigns led by young people in the U.S. Advocates for Youth, a national nonprofit, leads NYHAAD and works to empower young people to protect themselves against HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unintended pregnancy.

Why is NYHAAD important?

Today’s young people are the first generation who have never known a world without HIV and AIDS.

The CDC reports that in 2020, youth aged 13 to 24 made up 21% of the new HIV diagnoses in the United States. Young people living with HIV are the least likely of any age group to be retained in care and have a suppressed viral load. Addressing the impact of HIV on young people requires they have access to affirming, culturally-competent, and medically accurate resources and tools.

What is the NYHAAD Collective?

The National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day (NYHAAD) Collective is comprised of youth activists leading HIV prevention, treatment, and care campaigns in their communities.

Their campaigns highlight the challenges faced by young people living with and impacted by HIV, offer insight on how they combat stigma and discrimination on local, state, and federal levels, and enhance the awareness among physicians, policymakers, and youth-serving organization staff, etc. about the existing disparities.

In addition to HIV & AIDS education and resources, Advocates for Youth also shares trans-affirming education about gender. The two-minute animated video below was created in partnership between the Human Rights Campaign Foundations’ Welcoming Schools program and Advocates for Youth.

“What is Gender?” helps early learners understand the complexities of gender, gender identity, gender expression and gender stereotypes in a developmentally appropriate way.

Understanding gender helps children develop healthy identities and supports an environment of respect and belonging for all.

#ProtectTransKids

HIV/AIDS is an important health issue for people of all genders, including cis and trans men. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevent (CDC) reports that in 2020, gay and bisexual men (and men who have sex with men) accounted for 70 percent of new HIV infections in the U.S. It is estimated that 3% of transgender men in the United States have HIV.

As HRC explained, despite several years of research on HIV/AIDS and the populations it affects, we still know very little about transgender people and HIV.

We know even less about trans youth with HIV. One study found that transgender youth were more likely to miss HIV care appointments if they were treated negatively because of their gender identity.

What are the NYHAAD Campaign Demands?

➤ Increasing empathy and reducing stigma about HIV and its impact on young people on campus and in communities

➤ Affirming policies around HIV care, treatment, and prevention on campus and in communities

➤ Decriminalizing HIV

➤ Accessing HIV services, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), on-campus and in communities without parental consent

➤ Updating sex education curricula, which includes medically accurate information about HIV

Support the National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day (NYHAAD) Collective

Follow @Advocatesforyouth and @MyStoryOutLoud on Instagram.

You can also follow them on X: @NYHAAD @AdvocatesTweets @MyStoryOutLoud

Take Action Today

Raise awareness on April 10th about #NYHAAD and Let’s Stop HIV Together by sharing Let’s Stop HIV Together infographics on social media. Access the social media toolkit here and be sure to include the hashtag #NYHAAD in each post.

Let’s Stop HIV Together Campaign: The Together Campaign is a part of the CDC’s national Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. initiative. Together messaging promotes testing access, treatment, prevention, and ending HIV stigma.

More HIV & AIDS Resources

WATCH ON-DEMAND: Healthcare Professionals, Youth, and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

In partnership with Clinical Care Options (CCO), Advocates for Youth is sharing a medical education series for healthcare professionals, Paths Forward in PrEP: Overcoming Barriers to PrEP Engagement in Adolescents.

➤ TransLash Guide to National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

➤ Transgender Law Center’s Positively Trans (T+) program: transgenderlawcenter.org

➤ TLDEF’s Know Your Rights Guide: transequality.org

➤ UCSF’s Center of Excellence for Transgender Health: prevention.ucsf.edu/transhealth

➤ Southern AIDS Coalition: southernaidscoalition.org

➤ TransLash Guide to National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

➤ HIV Vaccine Awareness Day Resources

➤ TRANSCRIPT: TransLash Podcast Episode 58, ‘Trans World AIDS Day‘

➤ Learn more about how HIV affects gay and bisexual men by reading HIV and All Gay and Bisexual Men and HIV and African American Gay and Bisexual Men.

➤ Visit the HIV.gov Basics section and CDC’s HIV basics page to learn about HIV prevention, testing, and living with HIV.

➤ Use the HIV Testing Sites & Care Services Locator. The Locator now includes PrEP and STI services and is more user friendly. Read about how the new Locator can help you serve your community.

➤ Visit gettested.cdc.gov.

➤ Read, share and subscribe to the HIV.gov blog.

➤ The CDC’s Let’s Stop HIV Together campaign materials includes posters, graphics, videos and more.

➤ HRSA’s Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program is dedicated to improving health outcomes.

➤ ESCALATEExit Disclaimer (Ending Stigma through Collaboration and Lifting All To Empowerment) is an initiative that supports training designed to address HIV-related stigma, as well as additional efforts that provide resources and toolkits for engaging MSM at high risk in HIV care.

➤ Sign up for the RWHAP listserv for HIV/AIDS news, updates, and education and training opportunities.

Did you find this resource helpful? Consider supporting TransLash today with a tax-deductible donation.

The post TransLash Guide to National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day appeared first on TransLash Media.

Disinformation must spread in ways that are imperceptible and seemingly organic. Join us for Episode 3 of Season 2 of the Anti-Trans Hate Machine for a deep dive into the massive influence of the fringe blog 4th Wave Now, where parents who are hostile to their trans kids gather to spread conspiracy theories about the origins of gender identity. It’s influenced liberal parents like Jeanne Ogden, who used ideas in the blog to help justify blocking her daughter Cam from receiving the care she needs. Learn how Jeanne and Cam are working to pick up the pieces, after being manipulated by this disinformation. And how, despite the harm, journalists like Jesse Singal grabbed the idea of trans social contagion and ran with it.

The post Seduction of Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria appeared first on TransLash Media.

What was first puberty like for you? Those of us who knew we were trans, queer, or gender-nonconforming probably spent our teen years actively raging against the process. Others deeper in the closet may have simply sensed that something didn’t feel right. 

Compulsory cishet* culture presents puberty as miserable, embarrassing, and extremely inflexible. For queer and TGNC people who are initially excited about their transition, they may begin to view their second puberty with the same negative outlook. Because of anti-queer violence and censorship, we have been deprived of a whole, healthy connection to generations of queer and trans elders. This means that whatever traditions of queer coming-of-age which used to exist seem to be lost to time. 

While we mourn that reality, we also are presented with an exciting opportunity to shake off what doesn’t suit us from dominant culture(s) with flamboyant agency, and embrace our second puberty with a wily, trickster joy. Whether you’re micro-dosing, seeking a full hormonal transition, or doing neither, I want to help my trans and queer kin sense our empowerment and potential for magic at this incredible turning point. The single story of transition as a traumatic medical slog that we hope may end with cis acceptance is not the only one. We can dare to feel the parts of second puberty that are actually wonderful, potent, and magical.

You Have Time and Wisdom on Your Side.

In first puberty, most of us were rocked by devastatingly low self-esteem. To suggest that this doesn’t happen to trans and queer adults in second puberty would be very misleading: we still struggle deeply once we come out and become invested in making changes to our gender presentation. The mirror may lie or hurt us, and we grow impatient to see our future self bloom. 

Thankfully, as adults in second puberty, we have a great deal more perspective on our feelings than we did as teenagers. We can schedule regular therapy and talk to other queer people who remind us of our worth and beauty at every stage in the journey. 

When you’ve faced fears around things like medical access, transphobia, and coming out to those you love, some of the challenges that stymied you as a disempowered 13 or 14-year-old will now feel like child’s play. You aren’t a kid anymore, and the life experience you bring to your second puberty lends you confidence that will help you navigate this time. (It helps that once we start HRT most of us begin to age backward for a time—so it’s hard not to feel yourself!)

You Get to Create Your Own Rituals.

It may not surprise queer readers to know that many cisgender kids grow up into adults who feel deeply uncertain about their identities. Many cis adults aren’t sure if they are “real” men and women, or if they have done enough to prove their gender identities. Trans and queer people also question our validity all the time—the push to be “real” feels so much more important when our survival may depend on “passing.”

The uncertainty we feel due to missing out on adulthood rites of passage can also lead to depression and misdirected anger as uninitiated teens grow older without fully transitioning into self-assured adults. 

In second puberty, we can harness this knowledge and forge meaningful initiation traditions that help us grow into grounded, confident adults. You could choose to be recognized by community in a traditional ceremony from your faith. You could set yourself a difficult challenge or goal and find a mentor to help you achieve it. Your initiation could be a private ritual of intention done in Nature. Whatever path you take, slowing down and honoring the spirit of this moment is something most teenagers don’t think about. Now’s your chance to honor your transition in ceremony and grow up into the version of yourself that you’ve always wanted to be.

You Can Seek Community that Celebrates Your Authentic Self.

The greatest treasure in our second puberty is undoubtedly our chosen family, community, and queer kin. If your parents had awful things to say about your changing body the first time, odds are you won’t want them commenting on this transition. If your friends in school thought your bold fashion choices were ‘kind of gay,’ now you can surround yourself with the *definitely gay* crowd who are going to cheer you on with every strut (and share their cute clothes to help you build your closet and your confidence). Seek out people who uplift you, who remind you you are worthy and loved. With the wisdom you’ve gained through the years, you have a better idea of who deserves to be close to you during moments of vulnerability and upheaval. You deserve for your transition to be serenaded by a cheer squad, not by your worst critics.

Second puberty is full of second, third, and fourth chances that bloom in sequence, enriching our experience of life in ways we never thought possible before. People around you may not understand why you are taking a positive outlook—and they are entitled to feel however they feel about their own puberty, but one of your greatest qualities is that you are a free thinker who desires a felt sense of authenticity. Your spirit’s striving for authentic grace and beauty means your true coming-of-age can only be a powerful expression that has never been seen on this earth before. 

There is a unique trans magic infused into every step of your path and you deserve to enjoy it deeply. 

The post The Unique Joys of Second Puberty appeared first on TransLash Media.

This World AIDS Day, Imara reflects on the millions of lives lost to HIV-related illness and the ongoing fight against this epidemic within the trans community. First, she speaks to HIV health equity leader Tori Cooper about her decades of advocacy for more inclusive and effective policy. They discuss her early experiences with HIV in the 1970’s, her recent groundbreaking appointment to the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS (PACHA) and strategies for an effective end to HIV. Next, Imara is joined by actor and business owner Ja’Mel Ashely Ware who shares his approach to increasing visibility for HIV-positive transmasc people and fighting stigma through entrepreneurial education.

The post Trans World AIDS Day appeared first on TransLash Media.

As the United States struggles to contain the outbreak of Monkeypox, trans people are once again sidelined in our public health response. Amidst this sea of misinformation and erasure, Imara talks with two experts about the disease’s spread and its impacts on our community. First, she sits down with physician and researcher Dr. Asa Radix to discuss Monkeypox’s origins, symptoms, treatment options, and why the medical system has been so slow to respond. Next, Imara has an eye-opening conversation with statistician-epidemiologist Dr. Elle Lett about the disproportionate impact on Black trans people, the flaws in the public health response, and the stigma of a new “gay disease.” 

The post Monkeypox and the Trans Community appeared first on TransLash Media.