Domestic violence has been on the rise among the transgender community in 2020 and into 2021. On top of that, there is still job discrimination and discrimination against them for being a part of the LGBTQ+ community.
In June of 2020, a landmark ruling from the United States Supreme Court banned workplace discrimination against transgender and gay individuals, but the president’s administration eliminated protections from the government that would have protected transgender individuals against health care discrimination. They were also barred from entering the military, except for some highly specific exceptions.
That inequity is just the start. These individuals are also struggling with an increase in domestic violence.
Why is domestic violence against transgender people on the rise?
The national Trans Lifeline takes around 75,000 calls each year from transgender individuals. In 2020, there were between four and five times more calls, and calls about domestic violence and health care both increased by around 300%.
Much of that increase may be a result of lockdown-related issues, such as trouble accessing support in the community or being cut off from friends and family who would otherwise be support systems.
Additionally, transgender people are at a higher risk of economic harm because of the pandemic. They’re likely to be the last hired and lowest paid, further limiting their options regardless of their situations at home.
It is important that you’re able to protect yourself if you’re transgender, and you shouldn’t have to face discrimination or violence just because of your gender or appearance. You deserve to be represented and to fight unfair treatment on the job and against abuse in your home.