Lesbian
Trans
People of Color
Drag Queen/King
Halloween
As the results of Tuesday’s election settle in, a wave of concern has swept through the LGBTQ+ community, leaving many to question what the future holds under a newly re-elected Donald Trump administration. With a track record of policies that have, time and again, marginalized LGBTQ+ individuals and eroded hard-won protections, Trump’s victory feels like a heavy blow. Yet, amid the frustration, fear, and uncertainty, there are reasons to find hope, strength, and resilience. Our community has faced adversity before and emerged stronger; now is our moment to rise once again.
In this election, we saw historic wins across the country that deserve celebration and recognition. Sarah McBride, elected as Delaware’s congressional representative, becomes the first openly transgender person in Congress. Her victory marks a profound moment of visibility and representation that will resonate well beyond her district. McBride joins a growing number of LGBTQ+ lawmakers committed to advocating for equality and inclusion in our nation’s capital, standing as a powerful testament that our voices will not be silenced.
In the Senate, two Black women—Angela Alsobrooks and Lisa Blunt Rochester—made history with their victories, bringing fresh, diverse perspectives that carry the potential to uplift all marginalized communities. Their presence in the Senate brings not only hope but also concrete chances to forge meaningful coalitions in support of LGBTQ+ rights.
While federal protections face uncertainty, numerous states stepped up to secure LGBTQ+ rights at a time when these are most needed. Several states passed measures to solidify reproductive rights, which are crucial for queer individuals and anyone who relies on safe, affirming healthcare. States like Missouri, New York, Maryland, and Colorado enshrined protections in ways that reinforce our bodily autonomy—a fundamental right for all.
Kentucky, too, struck down an amendment aimed at weakening public education, a victory that directly impacts LGBTQ+ youth who deserve safe, inclusive schools where they can thrive without fear. These wins demonstrate a clear message: while setbacks may come at the national level, states are continuing to push forward for justice, equity, and dignity.
Our younger generations are fierce, outspoken, and unyielding in their fight for a better, fairer world. As politically active youth turn up the volume on LGBTQ+ rights and social justice issues, they are reminding us of the power of grassroots activism. These young leaders are not just our future; they are here and now, actively shaping policies and pushing back against any threats to our community. With allies and advocates at their side, they’re leading the charge on issues ranging from gender-affirming healthcare to mental health resources and anti-bullying initiatives.
Yes, Trump’s win is a setback, and it stings. But this is not the end. We are a community built on resilience, bound by our shared history of overcoming oppression. We have faced prejudice, legal battles, and societal rejection; we have marched, protested, and made our voices heard. Now, more than ever, we must come together—to lift each other up, to support one another, and to show the world the strength of our bond.
Together, we will continue to make progress, whether through activism, allyship, or everyday acts of kindness that keep our community strong. Now is the time to organize, to volunteer, to lend an ear to those who feel alone, and to show up for each other. History has shown that when we unite, our voices become an unstoppable force.
We may face challenges ahead, but we stand undeterred. Our strength is undeniable. The road may be difficult, but together, we will walk it with pride, resilience, and unwavering hope.
A New Generation of LGBTQ+ Representation in Government
In this election, we saw historic wins across the country that deserve celebration and recognition. Sarah McBride, elected as Delaware’s congressional representative, becomes the first openly transgender person in Congress. Her victory marks a profound moment of visibility and representation that will resonate well beyond her district. McBride joins a growing number of LGBTQ+ lawmakers committed to advocating for equality and inclusion in our nation’s capital, standing as a powerful testament that our voices will not be silenced.
In the Senate, two Black women—Angela Alsobrooks and Lisa Blunt Rochester—made history with their victories, bringing fresh, diverse perspectives that carry the potential to uplift all marginalized communities. Their presence in the Senate brings not only hope but also concrete chances to forge meaningful coalitions in support of LGBTQ+ rights.
State-Level Progress and Continued Protection of Rights
While federal protections face uncertainty, numerous states stepped up to secure LGBTQ+ rights at a time when these are most needed. Several states passed measures to solidify reproductive rights, which are crucial for queer individuals and anyone who relies on safe, affirming healthcare. States like Missouri, New York, Maryland, and Colorado enshrined protections in ways that reinforce our bodily autonomy—a fundamental right for all.
Kentucky, too, struck down an amendment aimed at weakening public education, a victory that directly impacts LGBTQ+ youth who deserve safe, inclusive schools where they can thrive without fear. These wins demonstrate a clear message: while setbacks may come at the national level, states are continuing to push forward for justice, equity, and dignity.
A Groundswell of Youth Activism
Our younger generations are fierce, outspoken, and unyielding in their fight for a better, fairer world. As politically active youth turn up the volume on LGBTQ+ rights and social justice issues, they are reminding us of the power of grassroots activism. These young leaders are not just our future; they are here and now, actively shaping policies and pushing back against any threats to our community. With allies and advocates at their side, they’re leading the charge on issues ranging from gender-affirming healthcare to mental health resources and anti-bullying initiatives.
The Call for Unity and Resilience
Yes, Trump’s win is a setback, and it stings. But this is not the end. We are a community built on resilience, bound by our shared history of overcoming oppression. We have faced prejudice, legal battles, and societal rejection; we have marched, protested, and made our voices heard. Now, more than ever, we must come together—to lift each other up, to support one another, and to show the world the strength of our bond.
Together, we will continue to make progress, whether through activism, allyship, or everyday acts of kindness that keep our community strong. Now is the time to organize, to volunteer, to lend an ear to those who feel alone, and to show up for each other. History has shown that when we unite, our voices become an unstoppable force.
We may face challenges ahead, but we stand undeterred. Our strength is undeniable. The road may be difficult, but together, we will walk it with pride, resilience, and unwavering hope.
