Is America Safe for Trans People?

Since Trump’s inauguration, it feels like every day I open Instagram to find out which of our rights have been stripped or put up for debate. The GOP’s relentless attacks on trans people are becoming more aggressive, and the fear in our community is real.

Among content creators, there’s a growing concern that these attacks are part of a larger plan to erase us. Some posts go as far as predicting mass deportations or government camps, fueling widespread panic. The comments on these videos usually fall into three categories:

1. Rampant transphobia—calls for our extermination, treating us like vermin.

2. Accusations of fear-mongering—people claiming these creators are exaggerating.

3. Highly concerned trans people—worried we are doomed and should leave the country now.

The first category is sadly expected, but the tension between the last two is worth examining. Yes, there’s real danger. But mass panic without facts only fuels more fear, making it harder to focus on actual threats and preparation.

For example, a recent viral claim suggested a trans woman in Los Angeles had her passport taken away, rendering her stateless. The story spread rapidly, with no credited sources, eventually morphing into the idea that all trans people would be stripped of citizenship and deported. In reality, she was issued a passport—but without her correct gender marker. Still deeply unfair, but not the federal erasure that rumors suggested.

That being said, the facts on the ground are terrifying enough. In just a matter of days, we’ve seen:

• Passport & Social Security gender marker changes banned.

• Encouragement of discrimination against trans federal workers.

• Gender-affirming care bans for minors.

• The CDC retracting studies on trans people from medical journals.

While some viral fears may spiral into exaggeration, the core reality remains: Our rights are actively under attack, and we need to prepare for what’s coming.

How to Take Control Whilst in Chaos

First of all, take a deep breath. I know how you feel right now—over the last few days since writing this, I’ve spiraled down the rabbit hole of some pretty intense emotions.

Feel the emotions but do not let them paralyze you. It is okay to be upset, resentful, and bitter. You had a life planned, dreams to accomplish, and goals to crush. Now it feels like all of those could be taken away. Or those achievements feel less supported by the universe (at least in America).

I know you’ve been through so much already, and this is the last thing you need right now. However, life isn’t fair or predictable. Bad things happen to good people, and pretending this isn’t our reality won’t help you in the long term.

1️⃣ Save Your Money

Right now, you don’t have to create solid plans, but you should be aware of your options. Your brain loves having choices. The more money you have, the more freedom you have when it comes to choices down the road.

Cut Down on Expenses
If possible, figure out ways to reduce your cost of living:

• Taking a break from regular nail appointments.

• Choosing a lower-maintenance hair color.

• Limiting how often you go out to eat.

• Moving back in with your parents, if feasible.

Diversify Your Income
You shouldn’t rely on just one source of income. Now is the time to:

• Pick up extra shifts or get a second job if possible.

• Start freelance work or monetize your online brand (paid newsletter, affiliate marketing, digital products, etc.).

Set a Savings Goal (& Stick to It)
If you’re considering an emergency relocation fund, aim for:

• $10K minimum for emergency relocation.

• $20K+ for stability and security.

If you plan to leave the U.S. by mid-2026, saving $625/month (for $10K) or $1,250/month (for $20K) would be ideal.

2️⃣ Gather Your Documents (& Keep Them Safe)

If trans rights continue to erode, access to legal documents could become more complicated. Make sure you have copies of:

Essential Documents:

• Passport / Driver’s License

• Birth Certificate

• Social Security Card

• Medical Records (esp. gender-affirming care history)

• High School/College Diploma

• Tax Returns (Last 2-3 Years)

• Bank Statements (Proof of Financial Independence)

Backup Plans:

• Store digital copies on a hard drive & cloud storage.

• Consider a fireproof safe for physical copies.

3️⃣ Being Aware of Relocation Options

You don’t have to make a choice right now, but understanding your options will give you peace of mind.

🟦 Option 1: Stay in the U.S. (Blue State)

If you’re unable or unwilling to leave the country, certain states have enacted trans shield laws to protect gender-affirming care. Consider states like:

• New York, Washington, Colorado, Minnesota, Illinois, California (legal protections in place).

• Massachusetts, Oregon, New Jersey, Vermont (strong LGBTQ+ protections).

However, if a federal ban on gender-affirming care happens, even blue states may become more difficult to navigate. The cost of care could increase, wait times could skyrocket, and care may go underground.

🌎 Option 2: Leave the U.S.

I know suggesting relocation sounds drastic, but this is about keeping your options open. Many trans people are already looking for ways to establish a foothold in safer countries before things get worse.

Exploring Visa Pathways to Canada
There are different ways to legally move to Canada:

• Student Visa – Requires acceptance into a Canadian institution (6+ months).

• Open Work Visa – Requires sponsorship from a Canadian employer.

• Asylum – Requires proof of persecution (last resort option, long processing times, and legal risks involved).

Many influencers mention asylum, but it should only be used as a last resort, as it's difficult to prove immediate danger if leaving from a blue state. Canada is also reducing immigration by 30% post-pandemic, so securing a work or study visa sooner rather than later is recommended.

Why Canada?

• Healthcare Access (varies by province, but trans healthcare is covered in most cities).

• Proximity to the U.S. (easier to return if needed).

• Faster Immigration Process (compared to Europe).

• Stronger LGBTQ+ Protections.

4️⃣ Step-by-Step Action Plan

📌 Step 1: Assess your situation (What state are you in? What laws are changing?)
📌 Step 2: Secure finances (Start saving, cut unnecessary expenses, and diversify income.)
📌 Step 3: Research your options (Relocation, legal protections, and healthcare access.)
📌 Step 4: Stay informed, but don’t doomscroll (Balance information intake with mental health.)
📌 Step 5: Build a support system (Online trans communities, local orgs, activism spaces.)

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose to stay in the U.S. or plan an exit strategy, taking control now is key. The future is uncertain, but the actions we take today determine how much power we have over it.

Now is the time to plan—not panic.

Until next time CTG

XOXO

ARIAAAA