Transgender people today face an epidemic of anti-trans violence. Whether it occurs on our streets, in our schools, in our homes, or at the hands of law enforcement or other government officials, staggering levels of violence persist even as trans equality advances. The annual Transgender Day of Remembrance serves as a somber reminder of the losses suffered because of senseless and unjust acts of cruelty against transgender people. Twenty-six percent of respondents in the National Transgender Discrimination Survey have been physically assaulted on at least one occasion because of anti-trans bias. Transgender people of color and transgender women are disproportionately affected, with nearly 3 out of 4 of lethal anti-LGBT hate crimes committed against trans women and girls. Transgender people also experience heightened rates of domestic violence and sexual assault and are frequently re-victimized when they seek help.
Transgender people face extraordinary levels of physical and sexual violence, whether on the streets, at school or work, at home, or at the hands of government officials. More than one in four trans people has faced a bias-driven assault, and rates are higher for trans women and trans people of color.
TEA of Utah is working with anti-violence groups, women's rights groups, racial justice groups, and local and state law enforcement agencies to combat anti-trans violence. This effort cannot be limited to just Transgender Day of Remembrance. Public education, policy change and community efforts are needed to address the complex causes of anti-trans violence and ensure victims can receive support.
If you face discrimination, you have rights.
We encourage you to share your story or file a complaint here.