Transgender Day of Visibility

On this Transgender Day of Visibility, Chicago House and Social Service Agency recognizes and celebrates the strength, resilience, and contributions of transgender and nonbinary individuals. Today is dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments of transgender and gender nonbinary individuals while raising awareness of the work that still needs to be done to achieve justice for these communities. We also acknowledge the challenges and discrimination that transgender individuals face, particularly in the realm of HIV prevention and treatment.  

 In Chicago, transgender individuals are disproportionately impacted by HIV. According to the Chicago Department of Public Health, in 2019, transgender individuals made up 14% of new HIV diagnoses, despite comprising only 1% of the population. Transgender and nonbinary individuals due to many intersectional marginalized identities face higher rates of stigma, discrimination, and decreased access to healthcare and HIV prevention services. 

As there have been recent efforts to pass anti-transgender legislation across the country, Chicago House recognizes its responsibility in providing affirming care. These harmful laws aim to restrict access to healthcare, deny transgender individuals the ability to participate in sports, and further stigmatize and marginalize an already vulnerable population. 

In the face of these challenges, we must remember that hope and resilience can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. Through our four pillars of Housing, Health, Employment, and TransLife Care, Chicago House addresses barriers to access for transgender individuals. 

TransLife Care provides a range of services specifically designed to address the unique barriers faced by transgender and nonbinary individuals. This includes three drop-in sites located on Chicago’s North, West, and South sides, where individuals can get connected to free housing, employment, health, and legal services. TLC also operates a Resource Support Line (773-673-9340) that is available Monday-Friday, from 11 AM – 7 PM. Learn more about TLC’s services here.  

On this Transgender Day of Visibility, let us celebrate and uplift the transgender community. Let us stand in solidarity with one another and continue to work towards a future where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.