Immigration Equality

Today is Transgender Day of Visibility, an opportunity to celebrate the lives of trans people, the power of trans joy, and the struggles that the trans community faces worldwide. For LGBTQ asylum seekers, our country has been a beacon of freedom, where they can safely arrive and be their authentic selves – we must remain that beacon and protect trans people. This TDOV, we’d like to share the story of Sasha, a trans woman from Guyana who came to the U.S. to build a better life for herself. "Since I was five years old, I knew that I was born in the wrong body. I used to love to play with my sister's dolls and dress femininely, but my parents forced me to behave and dress like a boy. My identity also became an issue outside of my home. In Guyana, where I’m from, LGBTQ people are often subjected to widespread discrimination and violence. My entire life, I’ve had to live my true identity in secret to protect myself from persecution. In 2019, I was nearly attacked by men with machetes, and I knew then that it was time for me to leave Guyana. Even though coming to the United States still had its challenges, I am learning to love and care for myself. I work full-time as a home health aide and provide domestic support to my sister and her child. I’m in control of my own life now and my destiny. After all, I made it this far in life because I am fierce!" Living your truth is an act of resistance, so this Trans Day of Visibility, we stand in solidarity with all trans people who deserve to live as their authentic selves without fear of persecution. Link to Sasha's full story in our Bio. #TDOV #TransDayOfVisibility #ProtectTransYouth #TransJoy #Trans #LGBTQ #asylumseeker #asylum #immigrantswelcome