Indivisibles,

Today is the 25th annual Trans Day of Remembrance, a day dedicated to honoring the memory of those whose lives have been lost in acts of anti-transgender hatred and violence. That there is even a need for such an occasion underscores the importance of acknowledging and addressing the systemic injustices faced by the transgender community.

To better understand the gravity of this occasion, consider taking a moment to read Advocates for Trans Equality's annual Remembrance Report. Learn about the history of today, and read the stories of trans people whose remarkable lives were lost too soon -- and who deserve to be remembered fully, with their own names, identities, and stories. When you’re done, come back to this email and find out what you can do to make sure there are less and less names on that list each year. 

From Remembrance to Action

Despite representing a small fraction of the population, the trans community has been unjustly targeted by a barrage of misinformation and harmful political rhetoric, especially from Trump and his band of bigoted miscreants. Over 650 anti-trans bills were introduced into state legislatures this year, while Republican campaigns spent more than $215 million on ads that demonize the trans community and anyone who supports them. 

It's important that we recognize these divisive strategies for what they are: attacks on the dignity and rights of individuals simply striving to live as their true selves. 

We know why Trump and other Republican officials push their transphobic agenda -- by scapegoating trans folks and blaming them (and other vulnerable communities) for all of society’s problems, corrupt politicians create an “us vs them” mentality meant to focus public resentment on some demonized “other” instead of on the ones who hold the power to create meaningful change. 

However, despite the absolute deluge of attacks on trans rights, the power of local activism has proven incredibly effective in pushing back and smacking down harmful legislation. Across the nation, grassroots movements have successfully countered state-level legislation aimed at eroding the rights and dignity of trans and non-binary people. 

For example, activists in South Dakota successfully defeated a bill in 2021 that would have banned transgender athletes from competing in school sports. In Kentucky, advocates have worked tirelessly for years to get conversion therapy banned in their state -- and it finally happened this September, signed into law by Gov. Andy Beshear.

These victories exemplify the crucial role that allies and progressive voices play in amplifying support for the trans community and pushing back against efforts to legislate them out of existence.

So, what can you do to fight for the trans community in the fraught times ahead? 

• Donate to organizations like Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE). Formerly 2 separate entities, A4TE is the organization that was formed when the Trans Legal Defense Fund and the National Center for Trans Equality merged earlier this year. These were 2 of the largest trans rights organizations in the country, and they’ve now combined their efforts in an attempt to double the collective power and influence of their organizations. A4TE will continue to push back against draconian attempts to legislate trans rights, and it is more important than ever to make sure they have the support and funding they need. 
• Read the new Indivisible Guide.  Whether you live in a blue, red, or purple state, your strategies for protecting vulnerable communities and pushing back against harmful legislation are contained inside. 
• Check out our new toolkit, “Democrats Safeguarding Democracy: A Blueprint for Blue States”. Even in blue states, there is more to be done to protect LGBTQ+ individuals, especially trans people, and to Trump-proof our communities ahead of a second Trump term. Now is the time for bold action. If you're in one of the 15 Democratic trifectas, write to your governor today to demand stronger protections for the LGBTQ+ community and decisive measures to fight back against Trump, MAGA, and their dangerous agenda.
• Join an Indivisible group, or start your own. There is always strength in numbers. By collaborating with other local organizers, you amplify the impact of your efforts. There is an Indivisible group in every state and almost every congressional district. Find yours today, or start one in your area. 
• If you are already part of an Indivisible group taking on anti-trans legislation, talk to your organizer about what grants we have available to support this work or email [email protected]. We know that organizing campaigns against this kind of legislation takes time, planning, and resources. Our GROW Grants program can provide financial support for your grassroots lobbying efforts. With your turf organizer and fellow Indivisibles, plan out what supplies, communications tools, and general expenses you will need in order to effectively combat this harmful legislation at your state capitol. Then, research GROW Grant rules, and apply for a grant to cover those costs.**

Lastly, let this day be a reminder to reach out to the trans and non-binary people in our lives -- to check on them, support them, and affirm our unwavering commitment to their safety and rights. The fight for equality and protection is far from over, but together, we stand indivisible in our resolve to safeguard the dignity and humanity of all individuals, regardless of gender identity.

In solidarity, 
Indivisible Team

** PLEASE NOTE: Every state has different lobbying laws and reporting requirements for legislative advocacy, so please familiarize yourself with your state's lobbying rules and ensure you are/would be spending below the reporting threshold for a nonprofit advocacy group. GROW Grants cannot be used to fund partisan work on state or local elections. If you have questions on this, please reach out to [email protected].