Trans & Gender Diverse Youth

The ACLU of Delaware is committed to advocating for the safety, dignity, and protection of Trans and Gender Diverse Youth because their rights are human rights.

Federal and State laws protect your right to express yourself.

At its core, freedom of speech is not just a civil right; it is a powerful tool in the fight for justice and equality. For trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse youth, this freedom includes the right to express their identities authentically, to speak up for themselves, and to be heard in the face of discrimination and prejudice.

Trans and gender-diverse youth are often targeted by harmful policies and rhetoric that seek to silence their voices, restrict their access to affirming spaces, and deny their right to exist freely and openly. Protecting their freedom of speech means standing against censorship and the erasure of their identities in schools, communities, and public life. It means ensuring that they can advocate for themselves, access resources, and express their experiences without fear of retribution.

By safeguarding their right to speak and live authentically, we are defending the foundational principle that all people are entitled to equal protection under the law, regardless of their gender identity. This is not just about protecting civil liberties; it’s about advancing justice, fostering inclusion, and creating a world where trans and gender-diverse youth can thrive.

Contact your legislators to voice your support for the safety and protection of trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse youth. You can find your representatives here.

Contact us at aclu-de.org/get-help if you need help making sure your school treats you with respect and keeps you safe.

Spread the word! The more people know about their rights, the more people feel empowered to advocate for themselves and their community.

The fight for freedom of speech and self-expression for these young people is an essential part of the broader struggle for social justice. The ACLU of Delaware is committed to amplifying their voices, challenging discriminatory laws, and advocating for policies that promote their well-being and safety.

Additional places to contact would be the Department of Justice Division of Civil Rights & Public Trust complaint form, the Department of Education, and Division of Human & Civil Rights in Delaware.

Know Your Rights: A Guide to the First Amendment for LGBTQ+ Youth in Delaware, is packed with information related to students’ rights around LGBTQ+ expression in schools. Click below to read our full guide!

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Planned Parenthood Delaware's Guide to Legally Transitioning in the State of Delaware is a step by step guide for updating all of your legal documents in the State of Delaware.

View the guide