Moving Forward Together

Leaving home is a big moment for everyone. Whether it’s a moment of joy and excitement as someone pursues their next phase of life or a more somber and traumatic event that forces someone into the world whether they are ready for it or not, relocating and starting a new chapter can be emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausting. Ideally, an individual has a support network to lean on and a roadmap to help them find their way on their journey.

On January 20th, 2025, the 47th president of the United States was officially sworn into office. Even before the results of the election, many individuals across the country have been working together with their communities or establishing new ones to help folks the most at risk when it comes to threats from previous and upcoming state legislation. Erin Reed’s Post-Election 2024 Adult Anti-Trans Legislative Risk Assessment Map and tracking of legislation across different social media platforms is one such example for keeping folks informed on the safest places for transgender individuals in the United States to relocate to. GLAAD, “the world’s largest Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) media advocacy organization” according to their website, also provides a helpful list of resources for queer folks, including a page specifically for organizations and programs aimed at helping transgender individuals.

As a nonbinary person who has lived in Florida for my whole life, being forced to relocate for my personal safety is not a situation I want anyone to have to go through, yet countless individuals across the country are in the same situation as I am. While attacks on the safety of transgender citizens is an obvious concern for me, there are other citizens at risk in the next four years, as demonstrated by the revocation of DEI initiatives and the constant attack on women’s reproductive rights.

Now more than ever, it’s important for individuals to stand together, make connections, gather our resources, and practice solidarity with one another. Offer support to those in need, engage with community networks and volunteer organizations, and work together as we all navigate this transition into a new phase, ready or not.

For Peace and Love,
Ash