With it becoming increasingly clear that Donald Trump will almost certainly win the US election, the moderators and I felt it important to say a few words and direct people to crisis support resources.

We know this outcome is devastating for so many of us. It’s difficult to see the outcome we feared come to pass, and it’s completely understandable to feel heartbroken, fearful, or even numb. We need to come together as a community now more than ever. We need to support each other. We need to ensure no one is alone in their fear or pain.

The challenges ahead may seem insurmountable and frankly overwhelming, but our voices and actions are still powerful. Staying engaged in your local community, in advocacy, and ensuring our voices are not silenced is more crucial now than ever.

Crisis Support

If you or someone you know needs immediate support, here are some US-based resources (from GLAAD):

We do not consider the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline a safe resource for the trans community due to their history of involving local law enforcement without the caller’s consent, which can result in indefinite detainment.

Mutual Aid

Now is the time to lean into local resources and community groups. The people around you, especially other LGBTQ+ advocates and allies, can be a source of great strength and stability. Here are a few ways to connect:

The best mutual aid and support is local. We encourage everyone to research trans advocacy groups around them, local queer facebook pages, and keep connected with their community.

Moving Forward

While the outcome is devastating, our community is strong. It’s important to remember that progress in queer and minority rights has always been a story of hard fought battles through adversity. In moments like these, we stand on the shoulders of those who fought the battles before us. This is a time to lean on each other, amplify our voices, and advocate for the protections and rights we deserve. Organize, reach out, educate, and support one another as we move forward. Every action counts — from contacting representatives to showing up for each other in times of need.

Please stay safe and take care of yourself, especially in the coming days.

  • cowboycrustation [he/him]MEnglish
    19•2 months ago

    I have no fucking idea the path that my life is gonna take. Things were looking up and all I wanted was to finish the college of my dreams and enjoy my life. I have absolutely no idea what to do now. I do have citizenship in another country that I can flee to but that means leaving my friends, family, and education behind. What’s gonna happen :/

    • @[email protected]English
      1•2 months ago

      It feels awful to say, but your highest priority is you. I don’t expect blue states to matter given the full red federal control (president, house, senate, SCOTUS), or any of the “little victories” of the election to matter.

      I feel it’s going to be easier to help others from the outside, and it’s only going to get harder to get there as time goes on.