In a world where anti-trans rhetoric is gaining momentum, allies from across the globe are responding with love and support. The #TransPeopleAreLoved campaign has emerged as a powerful call to action, urging individuals to make their voices heard and stand in solidarity with the trans community. As the fight against discrimination intensifies, it is crucial to remind trans individuals that they are loved, valued, and an integral part of our society.
Eva Echo, director of Trans in City and director of innovation at Birmingham Pride, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the enduring presence and contributions of the trans community. Echo, one of the campaign’s co-founders, stated, “We have thrived for centuries within many cultures and societies, so being trans+ is nothing new. We mustn’t let the current political climate erase our existence.” Their call to action resonates with the essence of the #TransPeopleAreLoved campaign, which aims to emphasize that trans individuals are more than just labels – they are spouses, partners, friends, and human beings deserving of love and support.
The campaign, initiated by Echo alongside other passionate advocates such as Char Bailey of Birmingham Pride and model Jude Guaitamacchi, highlights the urgency of support for the trans community. Guaitamacchi emphasizes that trans youth are growing up in a world where transphobic hate permeates society, leading to alarming rates of suicidal thoughts among young trans individuals. The rising levels of violence, the rollback of crucial protections, and divisive movements targeting trans individuals further exacerbate the challenges they face.
The United States, in particular, has witnessed a concerning erosion of trans rights, as conservatives successfully enact legislation that undermines the safety and well-being of trans young people. A study conducted by suicide-prevention charity The Trevor Project revealed that a staggering 41 percent of LGBTQ+ young people in the US seriously considered suicide in the past year. Trans and non-binary youth, as well as people of color within the community, reported even higher rates. The UK, too, appears to be following a similar trajectory, as leaked draft government policy guidance suggests potential bans on trans kids participating in competitive sports aligned with their gender and the outing of children who express a desire to socially transition without parental consent.
Saba Ali, a trustee at the charity Galop UK, remarks on the inadequate progress made by the UK government, particularly its failure to ban conversion therapy. Ali highlights the dog-whistle politics and scaremongering surrounding trans women and trans kids within the Tory party’s rhetoric. To counter these challenges, Ali stresses the power of solidarity, community, and allyship. It is through unity, diverse voices, and raising awareness that lasting change can be achieved to protect and uplift LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities worldwide.
In this critical time, allies are called upon to be brave and amplify the voices of trans individuals, spreading the message that they are celebrated and embraced. By making love the loudest voice, allies can make a profound difference in the lives of their trans siblings, reinforcing the fact that they are seen, loved, and cherished. The narrative may be cynical and cruel, but it is crucial for trans people to receive messages of love and solidarity. Love, which strengthens society, rebuilds self-esteem, restores trust, and creates a sense of belonging, is a powerful force that can combat discrimination and create lasting change.
The #TransPeopleAreLoved campaign has garnered support from various influential organizations, including the founders of World Pride, licensed by InterPride. With over 375 Pride events in 70 countries, the network stands in unwavering solidarity with the trans community. Ryan Starzyk, the global project manager of communications and technology at InterPride, emphasizes the significance of supporting the trans community. He states, “None of us are free until all of us are free to be our authentic selves. The #TransPeopleAreLoved campaign is a way for us to share our commitment to inclusion and equity for our trans community worldwide.”