While most students are excited about returning to school, many of our trans brothers and sisters dread the days. According to Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) 16.2% of transgender students report being physically assaulted as a result of gender expression, while 32.5% experience physical harassment.
Many incidents go unreported due to fear of retaliation among other factors. Trans youth who experience bullying and physical assault are more likely to practice self harming behaviors that could lead to the end of their lives. Many trans students have to leave their homes to find a true sense of security.
Homeless trans youth are more likely to experience violence, engage in sex work and practice drug use, they are also more likely to drop out of school and never return.
It takes a village to raise a child, it is partly all of our responsibility to ensure the safety and well being of our trans brothers and sisters.
The little attention trans people get in the media is mostly focused on trans adult people, and although they certainly deserve the media coverage, we must do more about normalizing coverage on gender expression on trans youth as well.
Many of the adults that we trust these students with, have biased opinions about trans people and or are simply ignorant and do not care to understand the struggles that come with gender expression so they are in no position to protect or defend us.
That is why we must form our own communities and protect one another. Stand with our trans brothers and sisters, they deserve the same opportunities in life as everyone else.
How can you help?
Volunteer at your local LGBTQ+ Youth Center
or
Make a Donation of your choice, it could be financial or you could donate clothing, school supplies, personal hygiene products, cosmetics or anything that you can.
TimeOutYouth is located in Charlotte, it is an inclusive safe space for trans youth and they provide lots of opportunities for you to join or help. www.timeoutyouth.org
If you or someone you know needs emotional or financial support check out translifeline.org -A grassroots hotline by trans people, for trans people in crisis.
