The Legal Battle for Trans Lives
As one of only three programs throughout the state providing direct legal support for transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) individuals, Chicago House’s TransLegal initiative is an invaluable resource as part of our TransLife Care model. In Illinois, a staggering 65% of transgender people reported not having identification with their correct name and gender, while 29% experienced verbal assaults and some even endured physical attacks.
TransLegal addresses a wide range of issues, including name changes, employment disputes, and public benefits appeals. For many in the transgender community, securing identity documents that reflect an individuals’ authentic name and gender identity is a fundamental, yet often elusive, legal need. Without these documents, TGNC individuals may face discrimination in housing and employment, and they are at heightened risk of harassment and violence.
Elizabeth Ricks, our TransLegal Director since 2018, emphasizes the urgency of this work, particularly in light of recent changes in federal regulations. “Clients have expressed increased anxiety surrounding the impact that the new regulations and executive orders will have on their ability to live authentically and safely,” says Elizabeth. “The changes in State Department and Social Security Administration gender marker regulations have increased the number of clients requesting representation in name change proceedings and assistance with changing identity documents. There is a lot of confusion and misinformation about the impact of these changes.”
Despite these growing challenges, TransLegal remains committed to providing comprehensive legal services, free of charge, to TGNC individuals with household incomes at or below 300% of the federal poverty guideline. This vital support is made possible through the continued funding of organizations like the Lawyer’s Trust Fund, Illinois Equal Justice Foundation, and an anonymous fund of the Central Indiana Community Foundation, as well as a long-time anonymous donor. With pro-bono services, TGNC individuals can access the legal resources they need without financial burden.
The current administration has made it clear that transgender and gender non-conforming individuals are under increasing threat. Anti-transgender rhetoric has reached unprecedented levels, and with it, policies and executive orders aimed at erasing trans identities. These efforts undermine access to necessary healthcare, legal recognition, and protection from discrimination.
Elizabeth explains:
“We’ve always tried to keep up with changes in the law, but changes under this administration are happening quite quickly. Therefore, it has intensified the process of staying informed so we can provide our clients with up-to-date information. It's important to understand the magnitude of the impact the changes and proclamations from this administration have on people's mental health. It’s changing people’s ability to plan for their lives and heightened existing, well-founded fears of violence.”
Looking ahead, TransLegal will continue advocating for systemic change, while ensuring that the transgender and gender non-conforming communities receives legal support and affirmation. Through collaboration with national and local organizations, Chicago House is working towards a future where transgender rights are safeguarded, and all individuals can live authentically, without fear.