What is a Trans Sanctuary?
And why does outagamie county need one?
What is a trans sanctuary?
A Trans Sanctuary is a place that actively protects transgender, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming people from discrimination, harassment, and harmful policies.
Trans sanctuaries have been established in several cities and counties across the U.S. to create safe havens for trans individuals & their families amidst increasing anti-trans legislation.
In Wisconsin, both Milwaukee & Dane counties have been established as trans sanctuaries.
what can a sanctuary provide?
- local protections against anti-trans policies
- Access to Gender-Affirming Care without barriers
- Local protections for healthcare providers
- A strong community stance against discrimination
Trans Rights = Human Rights
A trans sanctuary goes beyond A policy
It’s a call to action for our community to rise together with our neighbors to guarantee that everyone can live freely, authentically, and without fear.
Nearly 1 in 3 LGBTQ youth face threats simply for who they are. Creating a sanctuary of safety isn’t just essential; it’s an act that uplifts our entire community.
Why do we need a trans sanctuary?
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1. Rising Anti-Trans Legislation Nationally
Since Trump’s election, discriminatory laws have targeted trans rights. A sanctuary in Outagamie County would protect residents and affirm their dignity locally.
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2. Safety for Trans Individuals
Trans women, especially women of color, face disproportionate rates of violence. A sanctuary affirms Outagamie County’s stand against bigotry and commitment to safety for all.
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3. Access to Gender-Affirming Care
A trans sanctuary ensures access to life-saving gender-affirming care, free from bans, legal threats, or discrimination.
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4. Support for Families
Families of trans people face social and legal challenges in supporting them, A sanctuary provides protections and resources, ensuring they can advocate for their trans children and relatives without fear.
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5. Mental Health
Trans individuals, especially youth, face higher risks of depression and suicide due to rejection and lack of support. A sanctuary fosters an affirming environment to improve mental health and well-being.
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6. Local Empowerment in the Face of State Injustice
When higher governments fail to protect trans rights, local communities must act. A trans sanctuary in Outagamie County would demonstrate local leadership in resisting oppression.
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7. A Model for Other Communities
Outagamie County can lead by example, showing how communities can take proactive steps to protect trans and gender non conforming individuals and build a future rooted in justice and equity.
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8. Economic and Social Benefits
Welcoming and inclusive policies attract diverse residents and businesses, fostering a thriving community. A sanctuary reinforces Outagamie County as a place of innovation, compassion, and progress.
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9. Historical Responsibility to Act
From resisting Jim Crow laws to defending sanctuary cities for immigrants, history shows us the power of local action in the face of injustice. A trans sanctuary continues this tradition of resistance and solidarity.
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10. Protect Healthcare providers
Protecting providers of gender-affirming care ensures support for trans individuals and strengthens the healthcare system, making it more resilient, inclusive, and accessible for all.
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11. Wisconsin law still falls short of fully protecting trans people
Organizing for a trans sanctuary in our county creates a safe haven and lays the groundwork for a powerful movement. It strengthens our ability to challenge future anti-trans laws, pressure local and state governments, and demand the protections our community deserves.
Ready to fight for change?
take action. Defend your neighbors. resist! unite! fight back!