I was honored to be with my CSE team members this week in Columbia, SC, where the SC United for Justice & Equality coalition fought back against two anti-transgender bills. While the bills ultimately advanced, dozens of transgender South Carolinians made their voices heard – both in the hearing room and at a powerful post-hearing rally on the steps of the Statehouse. Click here to view portraits from the rally, here to watch an amazing, courageous speech from an 11-year-old trans child named Niko, and here to view the entire rally. 

CSE’s team was in both Carolinas on Wednesday this week – our Executive Director Jasmine joined folks from across North Carolina for Equality NC’s Advocacy Day. It was an opportunity to come together, hear from an intersectional coalition dedicated to defeating discriminatory laws, and declare North Carolinians’ solidarity and unity against anti-transgender oppression. Watch video of the event. 

Hundreds of people across the CSE community have submitted messages of support for transgender youth and their families – and the notes are inspiring and heart-warming. We’re sharing these out on our social media in the weeks ahead and ensuring that they reach trans young people who could use a boost of love and encouragement. Have you sent yours yet? Click here to send a message.