Equality California on the Reelection of Donald Trump

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Equality California released the following statement from Executive Director Tony Hoang on the reelection of Donald Trump:

This is a challenging and painful time for everyone who values the freedom to live authentically, for each member of the LGBTQ+ community, and for all who support us. Trump's reelection follows years of anti-LGBTQ+ attacks from right-wing politicians and extremists and tens of millions of dollars spent on false, anti-trans ads designed to fuel hatred and division.

During Trump's first term in the White House, we witnessed a concerted effort to undermine and eliminate protections for LGBTQ+ people across the federal government. The Trump administration weakened nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ students and workers, repeatedly attempted to repeal the Affordable Care Act, undermined access to medically necessary health care for transgender people, and appointed judges with alarming anti-LGBTQ+ records. Based on his own campaign promises - and the detailed policy proposals of Project 2025 - we can expect the second Trump administration to go even further in its vile attacks against LGBTQ+ people.

But make no mistake - a broad majority of Americans reject these hateful attacks because they contradict our country's most fundamental values of respect and equality. Across race, place, and gender, we will stand united against anyone who tries to bully the LGBTQ+ community - transgender people and youth will be protected at all costs. We will keep fighting for the rights that LGBTQ+ leaders before us championed and for the rights we deserve. We refuse to return to a life of fear or hide our identities behind closet doors.

To our LGBTQ+ friends and loved ones, we want you to know that we are prepared for the fight ahead. California has already enacted some of the strongest laws in the nation to help protect LGBTQ+ people from the damaging effects of a second Trump administration. We now stand ready to mobilize our supporters and work in close coordination with pro-equality legislators in Sacramento and D.C. and California's vast network of LGBTQ+ and allied organizations to further protect our rights and ensure that California remains a safe haven for LGBTQ+ people across the country.

No matter who occupies the White House, we remain committed to fighting for our families, our freedoms, and our future. We will use every tool at our disposal to protect LGBTQ+ people from harassment and discrimination, create a safe and inclusive learning environment for LGBTQ+ students and ensure that transgender people can access the essential health care they need. We will keep organizing across this nation, raising our voices and resisting every barrier. Our light is too bright to hide, and our community is too strong to break.

We must remember we've faced hard times before, and we must stand united in our vision for a brighter future. Our community is so much more than just this moment.

To LGBTQ+ youth everywhere and their families, please know we see you, we hear you, and we will always stand with you. You are not alone in this fight.

Equality California stands strong and determined to fight for the future all LGBTQ+ people deserve in this country. Together, we will continue to march toward freedom and dignity for all.

In these challenging times, remember that you're not alone. If you need support in this difficult moment, many resources are available. Contact a local LGBTQ+ organization, consult the Trevor Project's Guide, and check in on your loved ones to offer support and comfort.

###