As a transgender man, I’m terrified of the next Trump administration. I live in a red state and my rights have been under attack for years, but Republicans running both houses of Congress and the presidency is a nightmare scenario.
Before the next Congress is even sworn in, Representative Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) is attacking transgender people with legislation designed to keep all of us, but especially the first transgender member of Congress, Rep.-elect Sarah McBride (D-Del.) unsafe when we use the restroom.
Being transgender and using the restroom is almost a calculus equation: how do I look today, where am I, who else is in the bathroom, and more all goes into how safe I feel on any particular day. I’ve been living as a man, beard and all, for half a decade now, so it has been a while since someone has said anything to me about being in the men’s restroom. But I still don’t feel safe. I know what people like the Republican Party say about people like me.
Using the restroom in public is scary for all transgender people, but attacks on our rights like these bills by Rep. Mace make it worse. On its face, this legislation works to force transgender people to use restrooms aligned with our gender at birth, but in practice these policies push transgender people out of public life in general.
If someone can’t use the restroom somewhere safely, they’re going to leave sooner, not visit as often, or stay away entirely. Rep.-elect Sarah McBride, transgender staffers, advocates, and members of the public visiting federal properties belong in our democratic processes. Transgender people belong in our government.
Republicans campaigned on trampling transgender rights and sending us back to the closet. They’re working to do just that. Transgender people and our allies must stand up and resist.
Here’s how you can help: Add your name to our petition demanding that Congress reject Mace’s attacks on transgender rights. Your voice matters, and transgender people everywhere need your support.
Together, we can make a difference and tell Rep. Mace and those like her that transgender people will never be silent and our allies will always have our backs. Together, we can right this wrong and help ensure transgender people everywhere are protected from hate. Thank you for your support and advocacy on this issue.
