Dr. Angela Rodriguez, a lesbian surgeon specializing in gender-affirming care, has dedicated her career to supporting trans and non-binary individuals. As the founder of ART Surgical in San Francisco, she provides life-changing surgeries for those grappling with gender dysphoria. Amid a rising wave of anti-trans legislation, she wishes lawmakers could hear the raw, often heartbreaking stories shared during her consultations.
“I wish politicians would sit in on one of my consultations and listen to the patients’ stories,” she says. Many of her patients describe feelings of desperation and even suicidal ideation, emphasizing the critical importance of access to affirming care. Yet, with Donald Trump’s re-election and promises to intensify restrictions on trans rights, Rodriguez fears for the future of her patients and the broader LGBTQ+ community.
Facing Anti-Trans Legislation
The political landscape grows increasingly hostile, with over 120 anti-trans bills proposed for the 2025 legislative session. Despite these challenges, states like California are working to shield trans residents from federal changes. Rodriguez notes an uptick in consultations, reflecting heightened fear and urgency within the community. “We hope the president will be a president for all Americans,” she says, though her optimism remains tempered by the current reality.
Rodriguez’s commitment to her patients extends beyond surgery. She educates other medical professionals to foster environments where trans individuals feel safe and respected. Her advocacy underscores the significance of trans lives and their right to equitable healthcare, emphasizing the devastating effects of gender dysphoria, including a suicide rate four times higher than the general population.
A Lifelong Commitment to Justice
For Rodriguez, this work is deeply personal. Coming from a conservative religious background in Colombia, she found freedom in the United States, embracing her identity as a lesbian. Seven years ago, she began focusing on gender-affirming surgeries, driven by a desire to address the needs of a community often marginalized and misunderstood.
“This is the fight of our times,” she states, describing her role as both a surgeon and an advocate. As she continues her work, Rodriguez remains steadfast in her mission to provide dignity and hope to her patients, no matter the political climate. Her story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community and the ongoing battle for justice and equality.