In the wake of Donald Trump being sworn in as the 47th president of the United States last Monday (20 January), trans students across the country have been expressing their fears and anxieties about what his return to the Oval Office could mean for the LGBTQ+ community. The inauguration, which saw Trump immediately begin signing executive orders that many view as harmful to LGBTQ+ rights and immigration protections, has left many feeling unsettled.
Reports indicate that calls to LGBTQ+ crisis hotlines surged during the inauguration festivities, with organizations such as Rainbow Youth Project USA experiencing a significant increase in outreach. They reported speaking to over 1,400 individuals that same afternoon, highlighting the widespread concern among LGBTQ+ individuals.
At the University of Iowa, students and allies came together to discuss their feelings about the new political landscape. A collaboration between local media and university publications gave voice to these concerns, with many expressing a sense of being threatened by the new administration.
"I think in total it is a terrifying thing to happen in the United States," said one trans student, reflecting a sentiment that seems to be widely shared among the community. The fear of having rights stripped away and the potential rollback of progress made for LGBTQ+ individuals are major concerns that have been voiced repeatedly since the inauguration.
Challenges Facing the LGBTQ+ Community
The last few years have seen significant challenges and attacks on the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, and the prospect of another four years under Trump's leadership is daunting for many. "I’m not excited for the next four years," another student remarked. "As a trans person, lots of my rights being threatened is scary." This sentiment captures the general anxiety that permeates among trans individuals who fear for their basic rights and freedoms.
Trump's presidency has been marked by numerous actions perceived as hostile towards the LGBTQ+ community. Last May, Trump made history as the first former US president to be convicted of a felony, a fact that some students find deeply troubling and reflective of broader issues within the political system.
One of the students interviewed pointed out, "It's disgusting that we've allowed a felon into office and someone who is hateful towards people of color, towards people who are queer and towards women." The sense of betrayal and disappointment in the political system is palpable among many students who feel that their voices are not being heard.
The Impact on Trans Youth
For trans youth, the implications of another Trump presidency are particularly severe. "The biggest issue right now is for minors," a trans student explained. "People who are 18 or over have a little bit more freedom because you can go to different states at that point. I could go up to Minnesota if I really needed to." However, for those under 18, the situation is much more dire.
Legislation targeting trans youth has been on the rise, with many laws focusing on restricting access to healthcare, including hormone therapy. The impact of these restrictions on mental health cannot be overstated, as they place additional stress on an already vulnerable population.
Data from the American Civil Liberties Union reveals that over 533 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were proposed across the US last year, with more than 110 specifically targeting healthcare. The trend shows no signs of slowing, with at least 196 more bills already proposed for 2025.
As the community braces for these challenges, there is a call for unity and support. The voices of trans students and their allies highlight the need for continued advocacy and the importance of standing together in the face of adversity.
We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below. Remember to keep the conversation respectful, as we navigate these challenging times together.
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