This is a call to action to support trans health! Tonight, comments are due at 11:59 pm on a new proposed rule from the federal housing agency, HUD (Housing and Urban Development) for a change in regulations regarding “Equal Access to Housing in HUD Programs Regardless of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity (Equal Access Rule)“. Our communities need your voice and support: please click here to comment now!
This proposed rule requires HUD-assisted and HUD-insured housing be made available without regard to actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status, and includes a piece which generally prohibits questioning one’s sexual orientation or gender identity for the purpose of determining eligibility and/or housing. The proposal came after HUD monitored and reviewed its programs and, based on that review, offered this proposal to better ensure safe housing for transgender people and other people who do not identify with the sex they were assigned at birth. This will affect access to programs, benefits, services, and accommodations generally. The proposed rule would also amend the definition of “gender identity” that HUD uses to more clearly reflect the difference between actual and perceived gender identity.
Discriminatory shelter conditions put TGNCI people at daily risk with no real oversight for grievances. When accessing bathrooms, medical support, and programs, TGNCI people experience frequent harassment from staff and clients without accountability. There is a lack of accessible shelters both geographically and to meet various physical abilities, and the conditions and treatment of housing in shelters for TGNCI people is particularly alarming.
At SRLP, staff and members of the Movement Building Team are organizing to expand our Trans Healthcare Now Campaign to more directly address housing issues. Click here to learn more about SRLP’s Movement Building Team, Campaigns, and Membership.
SRLP is calling on you to comment! If you’re not sure what to say, here are some sample comments: asking HUD to 1. create similar Equal Access to Housing policies for TGNC people in emergency housing 2. allow persons to self-determine gender identity and expression free of harassment and violence, whether actual or perceived gender 3. eliminate inquiries related to sexual orientation and gender identity 4. create oversight and accountability to assure owners, operators, and mangers of shelters, building, and other facilities and providers of services provide trans people with programs, benefits, and services in accordance with their gender identity.
Read more about HUD and learn how to comment electronically or by mail here.
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