Erasing LGBTQ+ Visibility—What You Can Do

Yesterday, the Trump administration took an alarming step to erase LGBTQ+ visibility from federal resources. Following a new executive order defining gender strictly as male or female at birth, the administration directed federal agencies to remove all references to LGBTQ+ communities from their websites. This sweeping directive not only silences important health, employment, and housing resources but also marginalizes millions of Americans who rely on this information for support and guidance.

Why does this matter to everyday people? When a government erases LGBTQ+ references, it sends a message that these communities do not matter. The information removed often includes lifesaving resources, from guides on workplace discrimination protections to links for mental health support and housing programs. This is an intentional act of exclusion that can have real consequences. If federal resources fail to represent the full spectrum of citizens, trust in government erodes. Over time, this could lead to fewer protections for marginalized groups and a dangerous precedent of erasing dissenting or minority voices from the public record.

Steps to Take Action:

1. Contact Your Congressional Representatives:
   Urge them to oppose this directive and push for legislation that safeguards LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. Use this sample phone script:
   “Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a constituent from [City, State]. I’m calling to express my concern about the removal of LGBTQ+ references from federal websites. This directive undermines visibility, access to vital resources, and the principle of equal representation. I urge [Representative/Senator’s Name] to speak out against this decision and support legislative measures that ensure government agencies provide accurate and inclusive information for all Americans. Thank you.”

2. Sign and Share Petitions:
   Join efforts led by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups calling for the reinstatement of resources and protections. By signing and sharing these petitions, you can help build public pressure to reverse these actions.
   Petition Link: Restore LGBTQ+ Resources

3. Support LGBTQ+ Advocacy Organizations:
   Donate to groups like the Human Rights Campaign, GLAAD, or the National Center for Transgender Equality. These organizations are on the front lines, fighting back against policies that erase LGBTQ+ visibility and advocating for equal rights.

4. Raise Awareness on Social Media:
   Share credible articles, infographics, and personal stories that illustrate the harm of removing LGBTQ+ references from federal resources. Use hashtags like #LGBTQVisibility, #EraseHate, and #EqualityForAll. Tag your representatives and encourage others to do the same.

5. Write a Letter to the Editor:
   Send a letter to your local newspaper explaining why this erasure matters to your community. Even a short letter can spark conversations and inspire others to take action.

By speaking up and taking these steps, you help ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals and communities remain visible, supported, and protected. Your voice matters—now more than ever.