Trans Resilience: Finding Strength and Solidarity in Troubling Times

Strengthening Trans Resilience in Uncertain Times

As a trans psychotherapist living and working on the unceded lands of the Coast Salish Peoples in Western Canada, I’ve borne witness to countless stories of strength and struggle within our trans+ community. Trans resilience is crucial in times like these, as systemic oppression continues to challenge our right to exist. This week, the re-election of a U.S. president whose administration is openly hostile to trans rights has sparked fresh waves of fear, grief, and uncertainty. With a sweeping executive order already signed to erase gender diversity from legal recognition, this is only the beginning of a coordinated effort to roll back decades of progress. For many of us, these actions reinforce a grim reality: the systemic oppression of trans people is accelerating, and our lives and livelihoods are at risk.

Yet, while Trump’s administration creates a hostile environment for trans+, nonbinary, and gender-expansive individuals in the U.S., we must also acknowledge the challenges at home. Pierre Poilievre, leader of Canada’s Conservative Party, has shown little commitment to making Canada a safe haven for our communities. This dual reality underscores the need for resilience and a collective approach to navigating these difficult times.

This blog post is written for you—trans+, nonbinary, and gender-expansive individuals seeking support, solace, and strength. It aims to address the emotional toll of these hostile environments, explore ways to heal and connect, and highlight actionable steps we can take to support one another. Whether you’re considering staying to fight for justice or seeking refuge in safer lands, know that you are not alone, and there is a path forward.

The Choice: Staying and Fighting or Seeking Solace

Staying to resist oppressive systems is an act of bravery. It involves advocating for policies that protect trans lives, fostering allyship, and building coalitions of support. Yet, for some, the weight of living under a regime that systematically devalues our humanity becomes unbearable. Relocating to countries that uphold trans rights—like Canada, New Zealand, or even Thailand—can provide a crucial refuge. These decisions are deeply personal, influenced by factors like family ties, resources, and the ability to navigate the complexities of immigration.

As someone who recently renounced my U.S. citizenship, I know firsthand the pain and liberation that comes with leaving behind a homeland fraught with hostility. It’s not an easy decision, but it’s one that allowed me to find peace and continue my work in a safer environment. Whether you choose to stay or leave, one thing remains clear: we must address the emotional toll of this moment and prioritise our collective well-being. Resources like Singh’s (2018) The Queer and Transgender Resilience Workbook offer practical tools for managing stress, challenging internalised negativity, and building supportive networks. Alessi et al. (2022) also highlight the unique challenges trans migrants face, such as discrimination and access to affirming healthcare, which can impact their mental health and adjustment.

Cultivating Resilience in Our Trans+ Community

Resilience is the ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. For our trans+ community, resilience involves not just surviving systemic oppression but actively creating the conditions for healing, connection, and growth. As Henderson-Espinoza (n.d.) reminds us, true resilience goes “beyond survivability to radical flourishing.” This concept invites us to envision a future where we thrive individually and collectively, even amid challenges.

Community Care: Affirming spaces are essential for fostering resilience. Grassroots organisations, local LGBTQ+ centres, and online platforms provide support networks that can help alleviate isolation and build strength. For example, Singh (2018) highlights how shared spaces of solidarity allow trans+ individuals to explore their identities without fear, creating an environment that empowers collective action. Resources like the Ottawa Trans Library exemplify the power of these spaces, offering tailored tools and a sense of belonging.

Mental Health Support: Addressing the emotional impact of oppression requires intentional mental health practices. Therapy, mindfulness, and creative outlets such as art and journaling serve as avenues for processing complex emotions. Singh (2018) provides practical exercises for trans+ individuals to challenge internalised stigma and foster self-compassion. Moreover, organisations like the Qmunity, The 519, and Trevor Project continue to be a lifeline for LGBTQ+ youth by offering targeted mental health support and crisis intervention (Alessi et al., 2022).

Advocacy: Advocacy extends resilience into action, transforming individual efforts into systemic change. Writing to policymakers, organising protests, and supporting initiatives for trans rights empower us to reclaim narratives and influence policy. Henderson-Espinoza (n.d.) emphasises the role of advocacy in reshaping oppressive structures, encouraging trans+ individuals and allies to build coalitions that promote justice and equity. Advocacy also reminds us that even small efforts, like amplifying voices on social media, contribute meaningfully to broader change.

Creating Sustainable Practices: Building resilience also involves sustainable self-care practices. Alessi et al. (2022) note that cultivating habits of self-care ensures we remain mentally and emotionally equipped for long-term advocacy and healing. This might include integrating restorative practices like yoga or engaging in community-driven wellness programs. By prioritising sustainability, our trans+ community can maintain the energy needed to navigate adversity while celebrating moments of joy and progress.

By embracing these strategies, our trans+ community can redefine resilience as an active, shared process—one that strengthens us individually while fostering a collective vision of flourishing. Whether through community care, mental health support, advocacy, or sustainable practices, cultivating resilience empowers us to navigate challenges and thrive.

Healing Through Connection

In moments of crisis, it is easy to feel isolated. However, trans resilience is deeply rooted in the strength of our communities. Connection is not merely a source of comfort but a vital component of navigating adversity. As Singh (2018) points out, healing often begins in spaces where we feel seen and valued, making community an essential foundation for resilience. For the trans+ community, these connections help us navigate systemic challenges, affirm our identities, and foster hope.

For those of us mourning the relentless violence against trans lives, especially trans women of colour, Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is both a moment of mourning and a call to action. It is an opportunity to honour our fallen while also envisioning a world where trans+ individuals can thrive. Events like TDOR remind us of the importance of collective healing and solidarity, as they provide spaces to grieve, organise, and connect. As Alessi et al. (2022) note, community rituals and shared experiences can significantly enhance our mental well-being by fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.

Building on this, creating intentional spaces for connection is critical. Whether through grassroots organisations, online platforms, or local LGBTQ+ centres, these spaces allow for authentic engagement and mutual support. Research shows that such affirming environments not only combat isolation but also bolster mental health and resilience (Singh, 2018). Examples like the Ottawa Trans Library demonstrate the transformative potential of community hubs that prioritise the needs of trans+ individuals.

Finally, connection extends beyond shared spaces to include allies and advocates who amplify our voices and contribute to systemic change. Advocacy groups and movements centred on trans resilience can help bridge gaps between marginalised communities and broader societal structures, ensuring that our collective healing translates into tangible progress. Henderson-Espinoza (n.d.) emphasises that true healing requires a commitment to justice and equity, making these partnerships essential for long-term flourishing.

By embracing connection as a cornerstone of healing, our trans+ community can cultivate a future where resilience is not just an act of survival but a pathway to thriving. In joining together, we affirm our inherent worth and strengthen our capacity to navigate the challenges ahead.

Conclusion: Building a Movement for Resilience

To my trans siblings, allies, and loved ones: resilience is not just about enduring adversity; it is about reimagining what is possible for ourselves and our communities. Trans resilience is an active, ongoing process that requires care, creativity, and connection. As Singh (2018) highlights, resilience emerges when we commit to self-compassion and intentionally foster environments that affirm our worth and identities. Whether you’re staying to fight or seeking refuge elsewhere, tending to your pain and nourishing your spirit is a vital part of this journey.

The road ahead is undoubtedly fraught with challenges. The systemic barriers we face can feel insurmountable at times, but it is through collective action and mutual support that we can create meaningful change. Henderson-Espinoza (n.d.) reminds us that the radical possibility of flourishing lies in our ability to imagine and build a future grounded in justice and equity. This means advocating for policies that protect trans rights, amplifying marginalised voices, and fostering inclusive spaces where healing and empowerment can thrive.

For those considering relocation, resources such as Singh’s (2018) The Queer and Transgender Resilience Workbook offer practical guidance for navigating the emotional complexities of such decisions. Alessi et al. (2022) also provide valuable insights into the mental health challenges faced by trans migrants, highlighting the importance of seeking support during periods of transition. Whether you choose to stay or move, prioritising your mental health and building a supportive network are essential steps toward resilience.

If you’re exploring ways to advocate for trans rights or seeking mental health resources, know that you are not alone. Connection is at the heart of resilience, and by reaching out, we strengthen our collective capacity to navigate adversity and create change. Together, we can build a movement rooted in care, resistance, and the radical belief that our lives and identities are inherently valuable.

Let’s connect and explore the trans resilience strategies and resources that can support your journey. Whether through inclusive online therapy, advocacy, or community building, there is a path forward, and it begins with us.

References

Alessi, E. J., Kahn, S., Greenfield, B., Woolner, L., & Manning, D. (2022). Lived experiences of transgender forced migrants and their mental health outcomes: A meta-ethnography. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(11), 6640. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116640

Henderson-Espinoza, R. (n.d.). We Need A Movement for Trans Resilience. Retrieved from https://www.believeoutloud.com/voices/article/we-need-a-movement-for-trans-resilience/

Singh, A. A. (2018). The queer and transgender resilience workbook: Skills for navigating sexual orientation and gender expression. New Harbinger Publications.

The Trans Wellbeing Newsletter. (2025, January 20). Trans Resilience. Now More Than Ever. Retrieved from https://www.transwellbeing.com/blog/trans-resilience-now-more-than-ever

Tracy3. (2025, January 23). Should Queer Americans Flee to Thailand with Trump Back in Office? Prism & Pen. Retrieved from https://medium.com/prismnpen/should-queer-americans-flee-to-thailand-with-trump-back-in-office-494e942b69db

GLAAD. (n.d.). Project 2025 Exposed: The Truth about the Right-Wing’s Planned Takeover of the Federal Government. Retrieved from https://glaad.org/project-2025/

Woolf, M. (2025, January 21). Trump order on gender prompts pressure on Ottawa to give America’s trans community safe haven in Canada. The Globe and Mail. Retrieved from https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-trump-order-on-gender-prompts-pressure-on-ottawa-to-give-americas/

Chang, A. (2025, January 21). 2SLGBTQ+ advocates fear ‘dangerous time’ in both U.S. and Canada as Trump rolls back protections. CBC News. Retrieved from https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/2slgbtq-community-reaction-trump-executive-orders-1.7436997