Why Now More Than Ever, We Need to Stand Up for Trans Rights
The fight for trans rights has always been a battle for recognition, respect, and equality. But right now, instead of progressing forward, we’re watching our rights being stripped away, particularly in the U.S. under Trump’s policies. This regression is not just a political issue—it’s a human rights crisis that is likely costing lives.
The Danger of Trump’s Passport Policy
One glaring example of this rollback is Trump’s push to force trans people to have their sex assigned at birth listed on their passports. It’s real, I’ve already seen it happen to a number of trans individuals (see Niko below). This isn’t just a bureaucratic inconvenience; it’s dangerous!
- Outing Trans People – A passport is often the most official form of ID a person owns. If a trans person’s passport doesn’t align with their gender identity, they’re effectively outed every time they travel, apply for a job, or even check into a hotel.
- Safety While Traveling – Imagine traveling to a country that is openly hostile to trans people and having your passport, the very document you need to travel, reveal that you’re trans. This could put individuals in real, immediate danger.
- Psychological Impact – The emotional toll of this policy is devastating. Having your own government refuse to acknowledge your identity is a crushing reminder that, in their eyes, you are not valid. That lack of recognition can lead to feelings of isolation, distress, and hopelessness.
Niko is a trans man in the US.
He has directly been affected by the new Trump Policy. See that Niko’s sex is marked as F for female.
Imagine how this feels?
You can read his post here!
The Rise of Hate Speech and Its Consequences around the world
At the same time, the rise in online and media-fuelled hate speech against the trans community is only adding fuel to the fire. What was once whispered behind closed doors is now being broadcast loud and clear, normalizing transphobia in a way we haven’t seen before. The more this rhetoric spreads, the more people feel emboldened to discriminate, harass, and even commit violence against trans individuals.
For trans people, this creates an environment of constant fear. Walking down the street, using public bathrooms, or simply existing in public spaces can feel like a risk. Many trans people don’t feel confident to come out and live as their authentic selves, fearing the consequences of being openly trans in an increasingly hostile society. The impact on mental health is profound—studies already show that trans individuals experience higher rates of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. When society continuously tells you that you are ‘wrong’ for being who you are, the weight of that message is crushing.
Why Companies and Organizations Must Act Now
This is why education is more important than ever. With misinformation and hostility growing, companies and organizations can make a real difference and foster inclusivity and understanding.
By bringing in speakers who can educate staff, challenge biases, and create meaningful discussions, businesses can become allies rather than bystanders. By bringing in a speaker who shares real-life lived experience, listeners gain an insight into the life of a trans person, developing empathy and understanding as to why we need to do the right thing and be inclusive. This isn’t just about ‘ticking a diversity box’—it’s about ensuring that workplaces are safe, accepting, and informed spaces where trans employees, clients, and customers can exist without fear.
If you want your company to be part of the solution, now is the time to act. Book a speaker, start the conversation, and make a real difference—because standing by and doing nothing adds to the problem. This backwards trend in rights is not just harmful; it is costing lives.
For queries or information on how to book Matt contact him here –
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With Pride Month approaching, this is the perfect time to book and equip your staff with the knowledge to be better allies — take action now and make a meaningful impact this Pride Month!
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