Where to Donate to Black Trans People This Month
This Black History Month, celebrating and supporting the Black community isn’t just learning about historical events and figures. Economically supporting those most marginalized in society is crucial, especially in a time of great wealth disparity and systematic oppression. Black, transgender individuals face extreme levels of inequality and discrimination in all walks of life. They are more likely to be unemployed, face harassment, and experience mental health issues. Below are a number of organizations supporting and empowering the Black trans community, and they are excellent causes to put your money towards.
The Okra Project provides healthy and culturally-specific meals to Black trans people in an attempt to combat the high levels of food insecurity and discrimination that the community faces. You can donate to their cause here.
For the Gworls hosts and organizes parties that raise money for Black trans people. This money goes towards medical procedures, medications, travel assistance, and more. Due to COVID-19, they are not currently curating any events, but you can donate to the organization here.
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The Black Trans Travel Fund assists Black trans women financially in order to secure them safer travel options and keep them from harassment or harm. Their goal is to redistribute wealth and leverage resources in order to give Black trans women a greater quality of life and allow them to move and travel freely, without fear of abuse. Donate here.
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Black Trans Femmes in the Arts
Black Trans Femmes in the Arts works to organize community programs and mobilize financial resources in order to provide Black trans femmes with spaces open for authentic creativity and art. They host performances, workshops, and events, as well as providing direct support to some Black trans femme artists. You can donate to their projects here.
Trans Women of Color Collective
The Trans Women of Color Collective centers trans people of color by providing economic opportunities and positive, authentic spaces for community building and artistic creation. You can donate to the cause here.
The National Black Justice Coalition
The goal of the National Black Justice Coalition is to end racism and homophobia. They work to connect the two movements and empower Black LGBTQ+ people with research, education, and policy change. Their policy goals for 2021 are “ensuring that all Black lives matter,” “co-creating a nation where we can all thrive,” and “repairing and healing a divided nation.” You can donate through PayPal, create your own fundraiser, or purchase merchandise, all available here.
The Emergency Release Fund uses donations to pay the bail of trans people behind bars in New York City jails. Trans people face increased discrimination in the prison system. They are far more likely to be assaulted in jail, and much less likely to be able to pay bail before trial. You can easily donate to the Emergency Release Fund by texting “bail” to (202) 858-1233, or find more information on their website.
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Black Trans Advocacy Coalition
The Black Trans Advocacy Coalition advocates primarily for Black trans health, housing, and employment. They provide Covid-safe PPE kits, safe sex kits, hygiene kits, and food pantry kits to those in need. They have specifically worked to counter the disproportional effect Covid-19 has had on the Black, trans community. You can donate to the organization here.
