Transgender rights advocacy: Navigating challenges for global equity
- Tenzin Dorjee
- Jul 15
- 3 min read
Sustainable development goals (SDGs) underscore the need for inclusive societies, transgender rights advocacy in the United States stands as a critical battleground for achieving gender equality (SDG 5) and reducing inequalities (SDG 10). As legal and social challenges mount, transgender activists are harnessing grassroots campaigns and digital platforms to counter systemic barriers. The urgency to address these issues lies in their broader implications: fostering inclusive societies strengthens global resilience, ensures equitable access to resources, and upholds universal human rights. By tackling discrimination, societies align with the SDGs’ vision of leaving no one behind, making transgender rights advocacy a cornerstone of sustainable progress.
The rising tide of anti-trans legislation
The United States has witnessed a surge in anti-transgender legislation in 2025, with over 20 states introducing bills to restrict access to gender-affirming healthcare, limit participation in public spaces, and curb educational rights for transgender individuals. According to the Trans Legislation Tracker, nearly 1,000 anti-trans bills have been proposed nationwide this year, a sharp increase from 2024’s record-breaking figures. These bills often target transgender youth, with measures like Tennessee’s SB1, upheld by the Supreme Court on June 18, 2025, banning transition-related care for minors. Such policies not only limit healthcare access but also exacerbate mental health challenges, with the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey reporting that 40% of transgender individuals have attempted suicide due to discrimination and lack of support.
The hostile political climate is compounded by rising harassment, including doxxing and threats against activists. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) notes a 22.8% increase in hate crimes against LGBTQ+ individuals in 2023, a trend that persists into 2025, disproportionately affecting transgender women of colour. This backlash undermines SDG 16 (peace, justice, and strong institutions), as it erodes trust in equitable governance and fuels division. Yet, the resilience of transgender activists offers a counterpoint, demonstrating the power of collective action in the face of adversity.
Grassroots activism
Despite these challenges, transgender activists are responding with innovative and resilient strategies. On June 15, 2025, the nationwide “Trans Rights Are Human Rights” march mobilised thousands across major U.S. cities, from New York to San Francisco. Organised by groups like Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE), formed in 2024 through the merger of the National Center for Transgender Equality and Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund, the march highlighted the intersection of legal advocacy and public awareness. A4TE’s work focuses on policy reform and community empowerment, ensuring transgender voices shape legislative outcomes.
A standout initiative is the Trans Justice Network’s digital “safe space” platform, launched in early June 2025. This encrypted platform has attracted 50,000 users, offering resources, legal advice, and a space for personal storytelling. By fostering solidarity, it counters the isolation often faced by transgender individuals. Similarly, the Black Liberation Collective in Idaho, led by Black trans youth, distributes mutual aid and hosts community art spaces, reinforcing local resilience. These initiatives align with SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals), leveraging technology to build inclusive networks.
Past progress and future challenges
Historically, transgender rights advocacy has achieved significant milestones. The 1966 Compton’s Cafeteria riot in San Francisco marked an early spark of trans activism, while the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey provided critical data to inform policy. However, the pendulum has swung back, with 2021 seeing 150 anti-trans bills, 15 of which became law. Looking ahead, the potential implementation of Project 2025, a far-right policy blueprint, threatens further rollbacks, including restrictions on transgender healthcare and online advocacy spaces.
Future advocacy must address these threats while scaling digital platforms to amplify marginalised voices. The Trans Justice Network’s platform exemplifies this trend, but experts warn that digital activism risks creating echo chambers without offline engagement. Combining virtual organising with physical protests, like the June 2025 march, will be crucial to sustaining momentum.
The duty of global society
Transgender rights advocacy transcends national borders, reflecting a global movement for equity. Organisations like Global Action for Trans Equality (GATE), founded in 2009, work to integrate transgender issues into international human rights frameworks. In Africa, LGBTQ+ activists use similar digital strategies to combat criminalisation, with 42 countries still penalising same-sex relations. Global collaboration is essential to align advocacy with the SDGs, particularly through partnerships that fund community-led initiatives. The UN Women’s report on LGBTIQ+ rights underscores that intersecting discriminations, race, disability, and gender—require coordinated global responses to ensure no one is left behind.
Transgender rights advocacy in 2025 reflects both the challenges of rising backlash and the resilience of grassroots movements. By leveraging digital platforms and global partnerships, activists are building inclusive societies that align with the SDGs. Continued efforts are vital to counter anti-trans legislation and foster allyship across communities. For further insights, explore resources from Advocates for Trans Equality (transequality.org) or the Human Rights Campaign (hrc.org) to support global equity and sustainability.
Youtube credits: https://www.youtube.com/@WOWPresents
