In Our Own Voices, Inc.

Yesterday, we honored the 25th anniversary of Transgender Day of Remember with a ceremony bringing attention to the violence impacting our Transgender, Gender Non-Conforming, and Non-Binary community members at the New York State Capitol. Alongside our #TransCare Coordinator, Julius Faulkner; the Assistant Director of Intercultural Student Engagement at the Gender and Sexuality Resource Center of University at Albany, Courtney D'Allaird; OGS Commissioner, Jeanette Moy and Deputy Director of #LGBTQ+ Affairs, Chanel Lopez, we also received Proclamations signed by Governor Kathy Hochul. ????? After the ceremony, we went to the Capitol Building with NYS Office of General Services to assist with the raising of the Transgender Flag #TDOR! As we reflect on the resilience and strength of the transgender community, we will continue to fighting for a world where your lives are valued, celebrated, and protected.

In Our Own Voices Statement on Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) Today, on Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), we honor the lives of transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive individuals who have been lost to violence, hatred, and systemic oppression. This solemn day reminds us of the ongoing challenges faced by transgender people, particularly Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) within our community, who are disproportionately impacted by discrimination and violence. At In Our Own Voices, we stand in solidarity with the transgender community. We remember and mourn the lives taken too soon, and we recommit ourselves to advocating for justice, equality, and safety for all transgender and gender-diverse individuals. As we reflect on the resilience and strength of the transgender community, we also acknowledge the urgent need for systemic change. This includes ensuring access to affirming healthcare, safe housing, employment opportunities, and protection from hate crimes. Together, we must work to dismantle the societal structures that perpetuate transphobia and inequality. Let this day not only be one of remembrance but also a call to action. We encourage our allies to educate themselves, amplify transgender voices, and actively advocate for policies that protect and empower the transgender community. To our transgender siblings: We see you, we honor you, and we will continue to fight for a world where your lives are valued, celebrated, and protected. In solidarity, Tandra R. LaGrone Chief Executive Officer In Our Own Voices, Inc.

? Tuesday’s election brought some powerful wins for justice, representation, and the resilience of our communities. Amidst ongoing challenges, these victories serve as a reminder that progress is not only possible but within our reach when we work together. ?? Historic Representation: Sarah McBride became the first transgender person elected to Congress, representing Delaware’s sole Congressional district—a huge milestone for trans visibility in leadership. ??? North Carolina Governorship: Democrat Josh Stein’s victory over Republican Mark Robinson signals renewed hope for inclusive policies in North Carolina. ?? Reproductive Rights: New York, Maryland, and Colorado passed amendments to protect reproductive rights, and Missouri reversed a near-total abortion ban. Seven out of ten states voted to protect or reverse punitive abortion laws, including Montana, Arizona, and Missouri. Together, we’re defending bodily autonomy. ?? Senate Milestone: Angela Alsobrooks and Lisa Blunt Rochester made history as the first two Black women elected to the U.S. Senate at the same time, breaking barriers for racial equity and representation. ?? Education Funding: Kentucky voters rejected Amendment 2, securing funding for public education and protecting the future of our youth. ?? Florida Prosecutor’s Return: Monique Worrell was re-elected as state attorney after being removed by Governor Ron DeSantis—a testament to the power of community in upholding justice. ?? Texas LGBTQIA+ Representation: Texas elected its first LGBTQIA+ representative to Congress, a crucial step forward for representation in a state where it’s greatly needed. ???? Korean American Leadership: Andy Kim became the first Korean American elected to the U.S. Senate, bringing essential diversity and representation to national leadership. These victories are a beacon of hope, underscoring the resilience of our communities and the power we hold when we come together. The path to justice is long, but these wins affirm that progress is possible. Let’s keep pushing forward, empowered by what we’ve achieved and focused on what’s next. ???? #Progress #RepresentationMatters #Justice #Equality #Resilience

Trans people often face barriers when it comes to #voting. But having an ID that doesn’t match your gender identity or presentation should not affect your right to cast a ballot. Know your rights and help avoid or solve problems at the polls. View the checklist below to find out what your state’s laws are, what to expect at the polls, and what to do in case your right to vote is challenged ?? https://lnkd.in/gr4H2M4

?? Model call! This one's for LGBT women and nonbinary folks! Our #WSW program is thrilled to launch its first ever Sex & Sexuality Magazine! But we need YOU. Join us for an extra special #photoshoot where you can share your experience with sexual health and inspire others to take charge of theirs ???? Sign up by November 11 by emailing [email protected]!

We're gearing up for our #Halloween House Ball & Ambassador Contest this Friday and celebrating PrEP Aware Week 2024! So here's a message from our #PrEP Ambassador, Emmanuel: "Taking PrEP ensures I am taking care of myself and my family. It gives me more confidence and makes me feel healthy in my sexual life." Emmanuel, we can't wait to see you on the runway at the Halloween Ball! Learn more about your HIV prevention options at PrEPforSex.org. #PrEPAwareWeek2024 #PrEPforAllAges

Had an amazing time in Chicago at Centerlink’s leadership summit! It was a clear example of changing institutional structures to address DEIB. Back in 2008, I was one of three BIPOC leaders in attendance. Great to see progress in action! #LeadershipSummit #DEIB #BIPOCRepresentation

?? Know your rights! Alongside the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York and the City of Albany – Neighborhood and Community Services Department, we're hosting an informative discussion on resources, rights, and protections afforded to victim and survivors of domestic violence. Free and open to the public! ?? Thursday, October 17 from 5:30-6:30pm at 247 Lark Street in #Albany, NY