More transgender Americans are arming themselves under Trump

https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2025/05/more-transgender-americans-are-arming-themselves-under/

By Jake Angelo  (26 May 2025)

Since Donald Trump won the election on November 5, Aeryn has been quietly stockpiling hormone replacement therapy and ammunition, things she sees as essential for living as a transgender woman under the current administration.

Animosity toward trans people in the U.S. is at an all-time high. President Trump has signed a laundry list of executive orders rolling back transgender rights, including one that says—in the eyes of the federal government—trans people don't exist...

All of this has created a perfect storm where nearly three-quarters of trans people in the U.S. now fear physical violence. That's why many trans people are taking measures to defend themselves by enrolling in training programs, buying guns and learning self-defense.

... In 2023, LGBTQ people were five times more likely than non-LGBTQ people to be victims of violent crimes, according to a new study from the Williams Institute. And an FBI report found that there were 547 recorded incidents targeting a victim's gender identity in 2023, up from 469 the year prior.

... The disproportionate attention on the demographic not only fuels hostility but encourages violence. According to Heidi Beirich, the co-founder of the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, sustained bigotry can translate to violence.

For Aeryn, the escalation of anti-trans rhetoric and Trump's actions have motivated her to prepare for violence.

That do bite. I mean I just started my journey since September last year. I have talked to people on discord and they said they are not going to do anything until Trump is out of power. This is what the far right wanted. The fear and desire not to stick out like a sore thumb. After thinking about this, I decide I will not live in fear of the far right. Take due care and be careful yes but not go out? Nope. I still go to LGBT mixer every month. I volunteered for the pride event next month. I choose to hope for a better tomorrow.