Trans Americans' Fears Amid Rising Anti-Trans Rhetoric

0:00From the streets of Sydney to the world, this is Sydney News Today. Transgender Americans are reporting heightened fear and isolation, as President Donald Trump enters the second year of his second term. People like journalist and educator Leo Caldwell in Indiana avoid certain towns for basic stops, worried about safety after transitioning 20 years ago. Many say anti-trans rhetoric from the top has emboldened locals to act out more openly. Experts like Dr. Andrew Flores from UC L.A. point to rising political polarization, where transgender folks are targeted as outgroups to rally support. Trump's inaugural address excluded trans people from official records, fueling debates and bills across states. This has left trans individuals feeling dehumanized even in cities. Personal stories highlight the toll. Caldwell's campus pro-trans events got cancelled or scaled back despite his long history there. Rachel Brammer fled rural Illinois for Australia after colleagues turned hostile post-election, now building community with partner Laura Mitchell.

1:04In Florida, Kylie has seldom drives out of state for meds and dreams of leaving with her family. The rebel effects hit wider. Support for same-sex marriage among Republicans dropped from 55% to 41% recently per gall of data, widening partisan, gaps. Hotlines like call black lines see more calls from queer youth feeling hopeless as anti-trans talks spills over to other marginalized groups. Yet a mid-harp break, some fine-join transition and new bonds. Lisa Sakard and Louisiana lost family contact but feels unburdened living authentically. All mine groups like trans women society, with over 12,500 members, foster meetups in Australia, reminding everyone these are real. People with families and lives, this story is made possible by a sponsor, headphones and a pillow. Once you try it, it just makes sense. S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com