New York City, N.Y. – In a historic move, two of the largest transgender civil rights organizations in the United States, the National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) and the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund (TLDEF), have announced their merger to create a powerhouse entity: Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE). Leaders of the organizations believe that this strategic merger will consolidate resources and political influence, amplifying the fight for transgender rights on various fronts.
The merger, expected to be finalized in the summer of 2024, will establish two distinct entities within A4TE: a 501(c)3 organization concentrating on “litigation and public education” and a 501(c)4 aimed at “influencing policy to fight for transgender equality at local, state, and federal levels.”
A4TE will be helmed by TLDEF Executive Director Andrea Hong Marra and NCTE Executive Director Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen as CEO and Executive Director, respectively. The combined force of the Advocates for Trans Equality is projected to bring “double the resources, expertise, and fearless commitment to justice” compared to its predecessor organizations, according to Marra.
In the face of a surge in anti-trans legislation, with a record number of bills filed in 2023 and more than 280 currently active in 2024, the leaders emphasize that now is a crucial time for unity. Heng-Lehtinen highlights the necessity to harness combined power and influence to advance trans equality in more significant and impactful ways than individual organizations could achieve alone.
TLDEF’s notable programs, including the Name Change Project and the Trans Health Project, have played a crucial role in assisting trans individuals with legal matters and challenging anti-trans laws. The organization’s ongoing efforts, such as pushing for the Supreme Court to outlaw gender-affirming care bans, showcase its commitment to trans rights.
On the other hand, NCTE has focused on political lobbying and organizing surveys, notably the U.S. Transgender Survey, to bring about systemic reforms. Despite facing internal challenges in 2019, the organization has persevered to contribute to the progress of transgender rights over the past two decades.
A4TE, as outlined in the joint press release, aims to maintain, strengthen, and expand upon the life-saving policy and legal programs for which each organization is known. With staff positioned across the country and physical offices in Washington, D.C., and New York City, A4TE is poised to lead the charge for transgender equality.
Shelby Chestnut, Executive Director of Transgender Law Center, applauds the merger as a vital step toward achieving equality for all in the face of discrimination and injustice. Chestnut envisions this historic moment as the future of the LGBTQI+ movement’s work, with powerful trans leaders at the forefront.
As Advocates for Trans Equality takes shape, it signals a transformative moment in the fight for transgender rights, emphasizing unity, strength, and a commitment to a more equitable future for the trans community.
