Transgender Americans Taking Safety into Their Own Hands

With a political climate in America that's feeling more hostile toward transgender people, many are taking steps now just in case. Take Aeryn, a transgender woman who's been making plans so she can feel safer in a situation she finds increasingly threatening. She's well aware that her rights and safety could be at risk, so she's stocked up on hormone replacement therapy and gathered a hefty stash—think thousands—of rounds.

"I really started worrying after this last election," Aeryn shared, encapsulating a sentiment that's become all too familiar in transgender circles. Amid a growing tide that seems set against them, many fear not just discrimination but possible violence. Aeryn's preps now include a hefty 20,000 or more rounds and a year's supply—right at expiration—of estrogen.

Increasing safety worries among trans individuals

It's not a stretch; these days, anti-trans rhetoric and policies are on a noticeable rise, making life feel precarious. Alarmingly, about three-quarters report being concerned about physical attacks. In reaction, self-defense has become a priority; they're buying firearms, joining defense classes, and learning how best they can protect themselves.

Statistics paint a stark picture: LGBTQ folks are at much greater risk. In 2023, they were five times more likely than others outside their community face violent crime. And let's not forget, an FBI report counted 547 hate crimes that targeted people merely because they were different.

Finding strength in self-defense

Transgender women often find themselves in danger because they're visible targets, and policies like bathroom bans haven't helped. Far from fostering understanding, these measures can stir up hate, pushing folks like Aeryn toward self-defense.

"It makes us look out only after ourselves, readying against possible violence," Aeryn remarked. Though she's never been directly attacked, she knows threats aren't outlandish, so she remains vigilant—not just personally, but also in defending her community.

Support from community and defense programs

Groups like Pink Pistols, which support gun rights in LGBTQ spaces, notice an upswing in involvement. Over 20 chapters are popping up or back again, and Erin Palette, who coordinates nationwide, dedicates time teaching safe gun use with Operation Blazing Sword.

The Pulse Nightclub tragedy in 2016 remains a turning point. It signals a persistent peril hanging over LGBTQ spaces. For her, Pulse echoes as a "queer 9/11," a chilling testament that danger lingers—driving many towards learning personal protection.

A history in LGBTQ self-defense

LGBTQ advocacy around self-defense dates back decades. In response back then, Raymond Broshears created a group after seeing how cops failed those facing anti-LGBTQ violence. Fast forward, and this need prevails. Like Dorothy, a trans woman, who arms herself just in case because staying ready feels empowering.

"Over 20 years, I've seen it, especially online," Dorothy noted, recounting her own experiences with threats.

Facing issues and standing firm

Some view guns as essential protection, yet others remain wary. Carly, a trans woman, once managed a gun store but avoided guns after Pulse shook her. Discovering Project 2025, a far-right policy spread, led her back, questioning what lies ahead.

Owning firearms taps concerns well beyond safety, hitting at core rights. Carly fears anti-LGBTQ laws might strip their right, calling gun access a key part in defense and dignity. "We're not pushovers," she insists. "Call me weak, you can try, but I'm far from soft."

For many, guns symbolize power, a basic right in a society that often sidesteps or undermines them. "Gun ownership and distrust in government, it's as American as it gets," Palette underscores, reminding us all about their cultural roots.