Lobbying an Inclusive Hate Crimes Bill with Real Grassroots Activists

[Hazumu]

Tommy Christopher
Contributor

Transgender people have played an unusual part in the LGBTQ movement. While they are often its most visible members, and hence lightning rods for the movement's opponents, they have also been left behind at times when the movement made progress.

For example, most of the people involved in the Stonewall Uprising would qualify as transgender, yet when it came time to negotiate on the Employment Non Discrimination Act, prominent gay rights advocates were willing to exclude trans people to ensure its passage.