Trans Latinxs have been at the forefront of change and fighting for better representation for the the trans community as a whole. In a 2016 survey, it was reported that 21 percent of people living in the U.S. who identify as transgender are Latinx. While there haven’t been more recent reports or studies done, queer pride remains strong in 2024, with more than 33 million Latinxs across Latin America identifying as being part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Still, trans Latinxs face unique cycles of discrimination and oppression based on their gender identity, ethnic or racial identity, and immigration status. Trans Latinxs currently experience a 20 percent unemployment rate (compared to the national average at 7 percent), 28 percent live under the poverty line, and 47 percent have attempted suicide. They are also more likely to be harassed, physically and sexually assaulted, expelled, incarcerated, and experience homelessness.
That’s why trans rights activist Bamby Salcedoand her work as …