Rising Stronger Together: Creating a Compassionate Community for All of Us

The transgender community faces significant levels of violence and discrimination, leading to deep psychological trauma for individuals who feel vulnerable and unsupported. Unfortunately, many of these crimes go unreported, which means that the true extent of the suffering could be far greater than what we know.

Violence against the transgender community is a serious issue that has been documented in various reports and studies. While specific statistics may vary depending on the source and the methodology used, it is clear that transgender individuals, particularly transgender women, are among the most vulnerable members of the LGBTQ+ community. It is important to critically evaluate sources of information and ensure that statistics are coming from reputable organizations or studies.

The impact of these assaults goes beyond physical harm. Those who identify as transgender often face a complex sense of self within their immediate community, struggling with feelings of guilt, shame, and rejection. Prolonged periods of depression and anxiety are not uncommon, as individuals try to separate who they are from the trauma they have experienced.

One key study conducted by the US Transgender Survey (USTS) in 2015 revealed that 98% of transgender adults who had been exposed to at least four occasions of violence and discrimination had contemplated suicide. Even more alarmingly, 51% of this population had attempted suicide at least once in the same year the research was carried out.

To address this crisis, we need to create a compassionate community that supports the healing of individuals who have experienced trauma. People who have already overcome their own traumatic experiences can offer empathy and understanding, helping to build individual resilience that, in turn, strengthens the community as a whole. By fostering close relationships, offering support, and creating shared experiences, we can initiate the healing of the community through the healing of each individual member.

This process of healing and support is particularly crucial for those who have struggled to find their own purpose in society in relation to their identity. Providing a safe space within a shared community that understands who they are on a psychological level can help them feel seen, heard, and valued.

As a community, we need to continue to fight gender identity and expression-based stigma, but we also need to offer an elevated level of support to other members of our community. While it may be challenging to address such complex trauma, we can take the first steps toward healing by creating a supportive and compassionate community. Together, we can make a difference and help those who have suffered to feel a sense of hope and purpose.