Standing Up for Trans Health: Callen-Lorde Fights for Your Right to Care
At Callen-Lorde, we believe that healthcare is a human right. That’s why we are standing up — loudly and proudly — to protect and expand access to trans and gender-affirming care. Because your health matters. Your care matters. And we will never stop fighting to ensure you have access to the affirming, expert, and compassionate care you deserve.
This past Tuesday, February 25, we took that fight to Albany. More than 100 people from Callen-Lorde and other LGBTQ+ organizations across New York came together at the State Capitol for a Rally for Trans Health. We filled the Million Dollar Staircase in Albany with energy and determination, met with lawmakers, and made our voices heard, demanding that New York take action to protect trans healthcare.
What We’re Fighting For
Trans and gender-nonconforming individuals across the country are facing increasing attacks on their healthcare. New York must step up to ensure that our state remains a safe haven for trans people seeking the care they need. Together, we called on lawmakers to:
Establish a $50 million contingency fund for gender-affirming care – so that people can continue to access life-saving treatment, no matter what happens at the federal level.
Strengthen shield laws to protect healthcare providers and patients from out-of-state attacks on gender-affirming care.
Increase funding for the Lorena Borjas Transgender and Gender Non-Binary Wellness and Equity Fund – providing essential support to trans and nonbinary communities.
Callen-Lorde: A Lifeline, A Safe Haven
For more than 55 years, Callen-Lorde has been here for our community, providing care that is affirming, expert, and rooted in justice. That commitment will never change.
As our CEO, Patrick McGovern, shared at the rally:
“Callen-Lorde is today, always has been, and always will be a safe space for all members of the LGBTQ+ community — especially for our trans and nonbinary family.”
This work is about more than policies and funding—it’s about people. It’s about making sure you can access the care you need without fear, stigma, or barriers. And it’s about ensuring that New York remains a place where trans people can live, thrive, and receive the healthcare they deserve.
How You Can Stay Engaged
The fight for trans healthcare isn’t over. We need to keep showing up, raising our voices, and demanding action. Here’s how you can stay involved:
Stay informed: Follow our We’re Here for You. Always. page to keep up with the latest updates.
Join the fight: Join Care with Action to receive advocacy alerts and take action when it matters most.
Support the movement: If you are moved by this work and want to help ensure Callen-Lorde can continue advocating for trans health, please consider making a donation.
Together, we are strong. Together, we will continue fighting for a future where everyone has access to safe, respectful, and equitable healthcare.