Although LGBTQ+ rights have progressed immensely over the past several years, there are still apparent disparities faced by their communities.

The transgender community has especially been met with prevalent issues. Even throughout all the progress that they have seen over the past few years, there are still discriminatory practices being made against them.

Safety

Transgender individuals might seem proud to be in their skin, but there is also a fear they face almost every day. Sadly, many transgender people, especially transgender females, have to fear for their safety, as their community is more at risk of experiencing violence as a discriminatory hate crime. Ranging from street violence to brutal murders, transgender individuals have to live every day knowing that this is a possibility. While some individuals live in more accepting communities than others, it is still a valid concern that lawmakers sometimes turn their noses up to.

Harassment

In addition to physical violence, the transgender community also faces a large number of transphobic slurs, verbal abuse, bullying and harassment from people who feel they have a right to discriminate against these individuals. This has led to individuals feeling scared to attend school or work, avoiding bathrooms or locker rooms and more. Unfortunately, many states, schools and workplaces do not have regulations in place that protect these individuals from such harassment, leading to an ongoing issue.

Health

The transgender community is more likely to be diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. However, many transgender individuals are not able to receive the care they need and are instead met with discrimination by healthcare providers and insurance. These inequities have led to an overwhelming amount of transgender individuals facing daunting health concerns and not being able to find recovery options.

Homelessness

Unfortunately, the transgender community is also met with the prevalent issue of homelessness. Because of their desire to be who they are, many transgender individuals are kicked out by their families and forced to live on their own. This, coupled with housing discrimination, causes many transgender people to face homelessness during their lifetimes. In return, it makes it more difficult for them to find decent work and instead makes them more prone to experiencing violence.

As one can tell, transphobia and discrimination have led to various issues faced by transgender individuals. The transgender community may have grown in recognition and support from mainstream media, but it will take much more than this to help solve some of these valid safety concerns and other discriminatory issues.