Policy & Advocacy
Bryanna A. Jenkins, Esq — Policy Director at Lavender Rights Project
Black Trans Policy Convening (October 4th, 2024 —Atlanta, GA)
Where Policy Meets advocacy — at the intersections of black and trans liberation
Our Collective Power for Change
At Lavender Rights Project (LRP), we envision a world where Black intersex and gender-diverse individuals thrive. A world where our power, autonomy, and leadership are celebrated. Recent political events have left many feeling powerless and discouraged, but we’ve faced adversity before. We’ve built strong communities and collective power, brick by brick, and we will continue to build our legacy on this solid foundation.
We harness the power of the law to dismantle oppressive systems that have silenced and marginalized us. We give voice to the voiceless, strength to the weak, and defy the right-wing extremists who seek to erase us.
Our work is rooted in the belief that by addressing systemic injustices, we can build a more equitable society. We confront the disproportionate challenges faced by Black and Indigenous communities, including poverty, housing disparities, and gender-based violence.
We will continue to advocate for policies that protect the rights of all Black people and provide essential services to our community. We recognize the interconnectedness of Black issues, from voting rights to reproductive justice and trans rights. These issues are under attack by forces seeking to divide and conquer.
As a Black Trans Feminist organization, we lead this movement for change. By centering Black Trans leadership, we forge a path toward a future where all people of color and gender-diverse individuals are free to be themselves. We invite our Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color to join us in this fight for justice.
Together, we will resist attacks on bodily autonomy and build a future where everyone can thrive. Let’s rise together and create a new dawn of justice, a world where our voices are heard, our rights are protected, and our dreams are realized.
Our Vision for the Future:
A world where Black intersex and gender-diverse individuals are empowered and celebrated.
A society free from systemic oppression and discrimination.
A future where everyone can live with dignity, safety, and equality.
A world where Black Trans leadership is recognized and valued.
Black Trans Policy Convening 2024 (Atlanta, GA)
Black Trans Policy Convening October 3-6, 2024 - Atlanta, Georgia
In the wake of the 2020 uprising, we've witnessed a disturbing trend: a retreat from acknowledging and addressing the systemic injustices faced by Black and Black LGBTQ+ communities. A rising tide of authoritarianism and fascism threatens to further marginalize and persecute marginalized groups, including Black trans people.
We cannot rely on others to champion our cause. It's imperative that we organize ourselves and build our own political power. The Black Trans Policy Convening is a crucial step towards this goal, a platform to develop bold policy solutions rooted in Black trans-feminist principles and the experiences of Black organizers. Together, we will forge a multi-year, multifaceted agenda to protect our lives and secure our freedom.
Objective
The trans community in 2024 faces unprecedented threats to our existence. While numerous efforts have been made to convene trans people, few have centered the unique needs of Black trans people, often overlooking issues beyond gender-affirming healthcare and youth concerns.
The Black Trans Policy Convening:
Gathered Black Trans Leaders: Brought together a diverse group of Black trans leaders from across the country to strategize on critical policy issues.
Developed a Black Trans Policy Agenda: A comprehensive policy agenda addressing education, labor, technology, housing, healthcare, climate, taxes, reproductive justice, and more.
Builds Power and Capacity: Equip Black trans leaders with the tools and knowledge to engage with local stakeholders, lobby for policy change, and run for office.
Fosters Community and Healing: Prioritizing Black trans joy and healing as we work towards systemic change.
Our Outcome
National Black Trans Policy Agenda: A comprehensive policy framework developed by the cohort.
Policy Advocacy: Training on lobbying and engaging with legislators.
Leadership Development: Opportunities for Black trans leaders to develop their skills and run for office.
Community-Centered Research: Initiatives to collect and analyze data on the experiences of Black trans people.
Cohort Building: Ongoing support and collaboration among cohort members.
View our Post Black Trans Policy Convening Report
