A coalition of public defenders (including The Legal Aid Society), civil rights advocates, LGBTQ+ organizations, and concerned New Yorkers sent a letter urging the New York City Council to pass Intro 0625-2024.

This critical legislation will ensure that transgender, gender nonconforming, nonbinary, and intersex (TGNCNBI) individuals in city jails have a meaningful choice to be housed in alignment with their gender identity – essential protection against the rampant violence TGNCNBI people face in custody.

“We are deeply alarmed by President Trump’s Executive Order explicitly targeting transgender women in prisons,” the letter reads in part. “This is not merely a policy shift – it is a calculated effort to erase trans lives and fuel a climate of hatred that places TGNCNBI individuals in direct danger.”

“New York City must act now,” the letter continues. “Trump’s order emboldens the abuses TGNCNBI people face by sending the chilling message that transgender people’s lives are expendable. At this pivotal moment, the city has an opportunity to take a stand and send a different message – one that affirms New York City’s commitment to human rights and the safety of all its residents.”

Take action now!

Tell City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams to pass Intro 625.