Members of transgender community advocate for rights at City Hall
If there is one place that defines the spirit of advocacy and inclusivity, it’s Kansas City. Here, the hallowed halls of the City Hall have been echoing with voices advocating for rights and increased support for the transgender community. However, these voices are not merely reverberating within the walls – they are significantly making a mark.
Elevating Voices and Uplifting One Another
What began as defining Kansas City as a “Safe Haven” for the transgender community has now evolved into a broader demand for sustained efforts and support. “We should care for and uplift one another – that’s the true spirit of Kansas City,” voiced the city’s LGBTQ Commission Housing Commissioner JD Bezares in support of the community’s outcry.
Joining hands with them were city officials and allies who gathered outside City Hall earlier last week to discuss the ongoing issues faced by the transgender community. Emphasising the importance of having more than lip service, the advocates demand tangible action from the city.
Looking Beyond “Safe Haven” Resolutions
While the City passed a “safe haven” resolution last year, marking the first step of its kind in Missouri, it seems the implementation and effects have been underwhelming for the transgender community. “Transgender residents in Kansas City report little to no improvement, and violence against the community continues to rise,” highlighted a statement provided by Transformations and the Kansas City LGBTQ Commission. The citizens continue grappling with common discrimination, health disparities, unfair treatment in healthcare settings, and safety barriers due to limited funding services for support.
The Call for Tangible Action and Support
City Manager Brian Platt acknowledged, “We’re working on some events and celebrations but more importantly for us, it’s about support and services. It’s about making sure that everyone has the resources and the tools and the support that they need.” Yet, the advocates are looking beyond just words and events – they seek concrete action and updated legislation.
“Mayor [Quinton] Lucas and city council, thank you for what you have done so far and let’s keep working together to move the needle in the right direction on trans rights in our city,” commented Charlie Adams, a transgender man and third-year medical student at Kansas City University.
As the presidential election nears, the urgency for these demands has gained increased momentum. Considering recent comments made by local public figures and upcoming events that pose safety risks, the community rightly calls for immediate, direct action, funding, and support for their programming.
The Allyship of Cis-People
Amid the advocacy, a significant call to action was made. The transgender community urged their cisgender counterparts to leverage their privilege and be vocal in their support. Advocacy is not about lifting some voices while silencing others; it’s about using one’s voice to amplify the voices of the unheard – allies can play a pivotal role in this narrative. This call for allyship in the fight for equal rights exemplifies the true spirit of advocacy and unity.
