My Story:
As a transgender Latina, gender-affirming care saved my life. I’ve faced discrimination accessing healthcare, watched trans youth excluded from sports, and seen immigrants struggle for safety. Everyone deserves to live authentically and safely. California must protect trans people now and in the future.

Growing up, I often felt invisible and alone. As a kid, I had no safe space to belong. Today, trans youth are being banned from the joy of playing sports with their peers. They deserve to grow up safe, included, and celebrated, not singled out or erased.

Many trans people, including immigrants and asylum seekers, face even greater barriers. I know how important safety is when you’re searching for a place to belong. Many of my trans sisters and siblings come to California fleeing violence in their home countries. They deserve to find refuge here, not more obstacles. California can be a true sanctuary — a place where trans people can live safely, pursue their dreams, and thrive.

 
Why Action is Urgent
In California, we pride ourselves on being a beacon of progress and equality. Yet transgender individuals still face barriers to basic necessities like healthcare, employment, and education because of systemic discrimination.

Nearly one-third of transgender individuals have experienced homelessness.
Over half have faced mistreatment at work due to their gender identity.
Across the United States, anti-trans legislation is on the rise. California must lead by example with proactive protections and inclusive policies.

 
Step 1: Sign These Lifesaving Bills
Governor Gavin Newsom has until October 12, 2025 to sign these critical bills:

• SB 418 — Health Care Coverage
  Guarantees health plans cannot discriminate against transgender people and requires coverage for medically necessary gender-affirming care, including hormone therapy.
  Read SB 418
• SB 497 — Transgender State of Refuge
  Protects Californians’ sensitive medical information from out-of-state subpoenas or harassment and criminalizes unauthorized disclosure.
  Read SB 497
• SB 59 — Transgender Privacy Act
  Automatically seals court records for name and gender marker changes, protecting privacy and safety for trans and nonbinary people.
  Read SB 59

 
Step 2: Build a Safer, More Equitable California
California must continue to protect trans people in every aspect of life:

• Healthcare Access: Make affirming care available to all, including minors, without discrimination or barriers.
• Sports Participation: Ensure trans youth and adults can play safely and fairly, consistent with their gender identity.
• Immigration & Asylum: Protect trans immigrants and asylum seekers with access to housing, healthcare, and legal support.
• Privacy Protections: Safeguard medical, school, and personal data from misuse.
• Anti-Discrimination Measures: Expand protections across schools, workplaces, housing, and public services.

California can be a place where trans and nonbinary people are safe, respected, and supported today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

The time to act is now. Join me in urging California policymakers to implement these changes and protect transgender rights. Sign this petition and stand with the trans community in the fight for equal rights and dignity.
 
Governor Gavin Newsom and California's Legislature: Sign these bills and commit to ongoing protections and equality for all trans Californians. Join me in standing up for justice and dignity.

This is a sponsored petition. Learn more here.