Preparing for Change: 10 Steps for Navigating Political Shifts in Trans and LGBTQ+ Health

Transgender Awareness Week is a powerful time to reflect, connect, and take proactive steps for the health and safety of transgender and nonbinary individuals within LGBTQ+ communities. With potential political shifts that could impact LGBTQ+ rights, particularly those of transgender and nonbinary people, it’s crucial to be prepared for possible changes. By planning ahead, we can strengthen our access to affirming healthcare, secure our rights, and build community resilience. Here’s a practical guide for securing essential resources, preparing for challenges, and finding supportive connections during this pivotal time.

1. Use OutCare Resources
   Begin by exploring OutCare Health’s resources. The OutList helps you find LGBTQ+ affirming providers, while our Community Resource Database connects you to local supportive services. You can also access one-on-one guidance through OutCare’s free care navigation service and connect with an OutCare Peer Support Specialist or Mentor for support and advice on navigating affirming care.
2. Secure Your Passport and Documentation
   Having a valid passport can serve as a crucial federal ID that confirms your gender marker without hassle, as the U.S. passport application process currently allows you to select your gender marker. Passports are valid for ten years, so securing one now can ensure a long-term, accurate federal ID even if other identification options become restrictive.
3. Update State and Local Documents
   To mitigate potential challenges, update your state ID and driver’s license with the correct name and gender marker where possible. Even though some anti-LGBTQ+ laws target legal recognition, these documents can still make day-to-day interactions easier and help prevent potential scrutiny.
4. Ensure Access to Medications and Hormones
   Consider practical ways to maintain a steady supply of any necessary medications, including working with affirming healthcare providers to obtain a slight buffer of medication if feasible. Check with your provider about safe practices, and if needed, research trusted telehealth providers who offer affirming care, as restrictions on gender-affirming care may emerge.
5. Update Your Social Security Gender Marker
   Many are unaware that the Social Security Administration maintains a gender marker on file, which can affect interactions with federal agencies. Updating this marker now could help prevent future mismatches and allow smoother experiences in federal systems, as the process requires no medical documentation.
6. Consider Relocation Options
   Relocating is a significant step but may be beneficial for those in states with restrictive policies. For those considering a move, staying in a supportive area with affirming healthcare laws can make a difference. Not everyone can or wants to move, but for those able, looking into more affirming states may be a way to safeguard well-being and access to care.
7. Evaluate How and When to Be Visible
   The decision to live openly as transgender or nonbinary is deeply personal and may involve balancing visibility with personal safety. During periods of heightened anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment, being mindful of how and when to disclose gender identity in certain settings—such as workplaces or public institutions—may provide an additional layer of protection. Rather than suggesting anyone hide their authentic selves, this step encourages reflection on the environments that feel safest and most supportive, empowering individuals to choose the level of visibility that aligns with their well-being and comfort.
8. Build a Network of Allies
   Lean into local LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and support networks. Community allies can be invaluable for mutual support and updates on rights and regulations. Through OutCare, connect with a Mentor or Peer Support Specialist who understands the challenges you face and can provide guidance and encouragement. Legal funds and organizations may also be crucial in facing future challenges, so staying connected locally is essential for up-to-date information and support.
9. Seek Legal Guidance
   Consult with legal experts or LGBTQ+ rights organizations for legal advice on potential challenges to name and gender marker changes, as well as broader rights issues. Many organizations offer pro-bono services or can direct you to affordable support in case legal issues arise.
10. Continue Advocacy and Self-Care
    Above all, engage in activism as you’re able, and prioritize self-care. This journey can be emotionally taxing, so accessing supportive mental health services, peer support, and safe community spaces is crucial. OutCare’s Peer Support Specialists can provide confidential support from people who truly understand.

By proactively taking steps to safeguard your health, identity, and rights, LGBTQ+ individuals can strengthen their resilience. The future may hold challenges, but with preparation, connection, and care, we can face them together.

Support if You Are in Distress
If you are an LGBTQ+ person in distress, it is important to ask for help and support. Please reach out to any of these resources:

• The Trevor Project
  24/7 Hotline: 866-4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386)
  Available via instant messaging at TrevorChat or via text at TrevorText (text START to 678678)
• Trans Lifeline
  Peer-Support Crisis Hotline: 877-565-8860 (Available from 1 pm – 9 pm EST)
• The LGBT National Hotline
  Confidential Hotline: (888) 843-4564 (Available M-F 1 pm to 9 pm EST and Saturdays 12 pm – 5 pm EST)
• The LGBT National Youth Talkline
  Hotline serving youth through age 25: (800) 246-7743 (Available M-F 1 pm to 9pm EST and Saturdays 12 pm – 5 pm EST)
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
  If you’re in crisis: Call 988. To reach an LGBTQ+-trained crisis counselor, dial 988 and press 3. You can also text with an LGBTQ+-trained counselor by sending the word PRIDE to 988.

Remember, your power is yours—don’t let anyone take it from you!