Our world is broadening in ideas, perspectives, and beliefs as diverse voices rise, norms are being reimagined, and our collective understanding is enhanced. And, as we continue to embrace a kaleidoscope of identities, LGBTQ+ rights are becoming more understood and accepted.
And yet, as the graph below illustrates, recent years have brought a disturbing surge in legislation targeting transgender youth, impacting their access to gender-affirming healthcare, participation in sports, and the right to use bathrooms aligning with their gender identity. These laws send a clear message to transgender youth: they are not welcome, they are not accepted, and their very existence is up for debate. The consequences are dire. These laws, rooted in fear and misunderstanding, are causing irreparable harm to an already vulnerable population.
Trans Legislation Tracker is an independent research organization monitoring bills that impact trans and gender-diverse people across the United States. According to this resource, in 2024, 638 bills have been introduced in 43 states to block trans people’s rights to basic healthcare, education, and legal recognition. 45 of those bills have passed, 127 are still active, and 466 have failed. To learn more about specific bills, visit the United States Bills page.
The “politics of gender” have had a notable effect on the well-being of LGTBQ+ and specifically, trans students. According to the Trevor Project’s 2024 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People:
- 45% of transgender and nonbinary young people reported that they or their families have considered moving to a different state because of LGBTQ+-related politics and laws.
- 50% of LGBTQ+ young people who wanted mental health care in the past year were not able to get it.
- 9% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year — including 46% of transgender and nonbinary young people. LGBTQ+ youth of color reported higher rates than White peers.
- The overwhelming majority (90%) of LGBTQ+ young people said their well-being was negatively impacted due to recent politics. Over half (53%) said their well-being was negatively impacted by politics.
It’s clear that now, more than ever, it’s imperative we stand in solidarity with LGBTQ+ and transgender students to challenge harmful legislation, educate the public, and create safe and inclusive spaces for all. Advocacy can take many forms, including:
- Writing letters to lawmakers and school board members
- Attending rallies and protests
- Donating to organizations supporting transgender rights
- Speaking out against discrimination in your community
- Using someone’s correct pronouns
- Standing up to transphobic comments
- Educating yourself and others about transgender issues
Advocacy isn’t just about opposing harmful legislation! This means fostering school and classroom environments where transgender students can safely express their identities, connect with peers, and find the support they need. Schools and districts can adopt inclusive policies, offer gender-affirming training to faculty and staff, and cultivate a culture of respect and acceptance.
The fight for transgender rights is far from over. It remains critical for schools and educators to affirm, advocate, and support transgender students to maintain an inclusive and safe environment for all!
Teaching Channel is proud to offer the following courses to help educators support the gender identity of their students:
- 5344: Understanding and Affirming Transgender and Non-binary Students, with the text, The Advocate Educator’s Handbook: Creating Schools Where Transgender and Non-Binary Students Thrive, by Vanessa Ford, M.A.T. (she/her), and Rebecca Kling (she/her). Listen to their episode on the Teaching Channel Talk podcast!
- 5312: Creating a Gender Inclusive Classroom for Young Learners, with the text, Guidance for Supporting Gender Diversity in Early Childhood Education, by Jenny Fererro and Rebecca Bishop
- 5143: Creating Safe and Supportive Spaces for LGBT+ Youth, with The Educator’s Guide to LGBT+ Inclusion, by Kryss Shane
The following resources actively champion transgender rights:
- The Trevor Project: Provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth.
- Tips for Allies of Transgender People from GLAAD: Works to accelerate LGBTQ acceptance through media advocacy.
- National Center for Transgender Equality: Advocates for policy change and provides resources for transgender individuals.
- Trans Lifeline: Offers peer support and crisis intervention for transgender people.
About the Author
Betsy Butler (she/her) is a Professional Learning Specialist at Teaching Channel. She holds a B.A. in English, a Master’s in Education, and has been teaching since 1992. Betsy uses her three decades of teaching experience to write and revise our courses while selecting the perfect accompanying texts. Her specialty areas include ELA, special education topics, behavior management, and mental health.
Fun Fact: Betsy’s daily conquest is solving the New York Times crossword puzzle!
