Where the F*ck Should LGBTQIA+ Folks Move Under an Anti-Trans Trump Presidency?
Well here we go.........
If Trump’s back in charge and his anti-trans agenda is anything like before—or worse—it’s time to get real about where to live. With rising hostility and laws targeting trans people, some states are safer bets than others. Here's a no-BS guide to states that have your back, based on protections, policies, and overall vibes, plus why they’re worth considering.
1. California: The OG Safe Haven
California is like the badass older sibling who steps up when shit gets real. It’s been protecting trans rights for years, and they’re not slowing down.
Trans-inclusive Laws: Legal protections cover everything from healthcare to housing. California is clear: you mess with trans folks, you’re messing with the state.
Sanctuary Status: California declared itself a trans sanctuary, meaning it won’t cooperate with other states trying to extradite or prosecute trans people or their families over anti-trans laws.
Queer-Friendly Vibes: Cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Oakland have thriving LGBTQIA+ communities and tons of resources.
Downside? The cost of living is insane. You’ll need a solid plan to afford it, but for many, the safety is worth it.
2. Washington State: Chill and Protective
Washington doesn’t just drink coffee—it also serves up some serious protections for trans folks.
Comprehensive Healthcare: Gender-affirming care is covered under Medicaid and private insurance, and providers are actively supportive.
Anti-Discrimination Laws: It’s illegal to discriminate against trans people in housing, jobs, schools, or public places.
Supportive Communities: Seattle and other cities have strong queer networks, resources, and visible Pride events.
Weather Warning: If endless rain bums you out, this might not be your jam. But hey, it beats a hateful hellscape.
3. Massachusetts: Liberal AF with Healthcare Wins
Massachusetts is a blue-state stronghold with a long history of queer acceptance.
Healthcare Access: Gender-affirming care is covered by state law, and Boston Children’s Hospital is a leader in trans healthcare.
Legal Protections: Anti-discrimination laws cover trans people in workplaces, schools, housing, and public spaces.
Community Support: Cities like Boston and Northampton are LGBTQIA+ hubs with events and resources year-round.
Downside? Winters are brutal. But if you can handle the cold, Massachusetts has your back.
4. Colorado: Mountains and Protections
Colorado has evolved into a trans-friendly state with solid protections and community support.
Healthcare Safeguards: Medicaid and private insurance must cover gender-affirming care. Colorado was one of the first states to mandate this.
Anti-Discrimination: Strong laws protect against discrimination based on gender identity in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
Balanced Vibes: Cities like Denver and Boulder are progressive, but you still get access to nature if urban life isn’t your thing.
Heads Up: Rural areas can still be conservative, so stick to the cities for maximum safety.
5. Oregon: Progressive and Proud
Oregon is like Washington’s equally liberal cousin. It’s trans-friendly as hell and doesn’t shy away from making it clear.
Sanctuary State: Oregon won’t comply with out-of-state anti-trans laws, making it a solid refuge.
Healthcare Protections: Gender-affirming care is covered by law, and providers are well-versed in trans healthcare needs.
Community: Portland’s queer scene is vibrant, inclusive, and politically active, which means lots of allies and resources.
Warning: Oregon’s cost of living isn’t as bad as California’s, but it’s still up there. Plan accordingly.
6. Vermont: Small but Fierce
Vermont may be tiny, but it’s punching above its weight when it comes to trans rights.
Universal Healthcare: Medicaid covers gender-affirming care, and Vermont is known for its inclusive medical practices.
Strong Legal Protections: Laws prohibit discrimination based on gender identity, and the state has robust hate crime protections.
Laid-Back Living: With a progressive vibe and small-town charm, Vermont is perfect if you’re tired of big-city bullshit.
Small State Problems: The queer community isn’t massive, so if you’re craving big Pride events, this might not be the spot.
7. Illinois: A Midwest Beacon
In a sea of red, Illinois stands out as a safe haven in the Midwest.
Legal Safeguards: Anti-discrimination laws are strong, covering housing, employment, and schools.
Healthcare Access: Illinois mandates insurance coverage for gender-affirming care, including surgeries and hormones.
Queer Epicenter: Chicago is a queer-friendly city with resources, events, and one hell of a Pride parade.
Rural Reality Check: Like Colorado, stick to urban areas for the best experience. Rural Illinois can still be conservative AF.
8. New York: A Queer Powerhouse
New York isn’t just for Broadway and bagels—it’s a trans powerhouse.
Anti-Discrimination Laws: Gender identity is protected in every major aspect of life: work, housing, and public spaces.
Trans-Inclusive Healthcare: Medicaid and insurance providers must cover gender-affirming care.
Cultural Hub: NYC, in particular, offers endless LGBTQIA+ resources, events, and support networks.
Catch? Like California, it’s expensive as hell. Plus, NYC’s pace isn’t for everyone.
9. Minnesota: Don’t Sleep on the North Star State
Minnesota is one of the best-kept secrets for trans folks.
Comprehensive Protections: Strong anti-discrimination laws and statewide support for trans healthcare.
Gender-Affirming Care: Minnesota mandates that insurance and Medicaid cover trans healthcare, including surgeries.
Twin Cities: Minneapolis and St. Paul are LGBTQIA+ hotspots with thriving queer communities.
Cold Warning: Winters here are next-level. But if you can bundle up, it’s a gem.
10. Hawaii: A Queer Paradise
Hawaii isn’t just for tropical vacations—it’s a safe space for trans people too.
Healthcare Wins: Gender-affirming care is covered by state law, and Hawaii consistently ranks high in healthcare access.
Inclusive Laws: Anti-discrimination laws cover gender identity across the board.
Chill Vibes: Hawaii’s culture values community and acceptance, making it one of the most welcoming places to live.
Cons? It’s far from the mainland, and the cost of living is sky-high. But the beauty and safety might be worth it.
11. Washington, D.C.: The Political Safe Zone
Okay, it’s not a state, but the nation’s capital is a safe zone for trans folks.
Legal Protections: D.C. has some of the strongest anti-discrimination laws in the country.
Healthcare Access: Gender-affirming care is covered by Medicaid and private insurance.
Advocacy Hub: Being in D.C. means being close to the fight for trans rights on a national level.
Drawback: It’s pricey, but if you want to mix activism with safety, this is the place.
12. Maine: A Chill Spot for LGBTQIA+ Folks
Maine’s got a solid rep for being a pretty progressive place, especially when it comes to LGBTQIA+ rights. It’s one of the safer states for trans people and queer youth to call home.
Legal Protections: Maine doesn’t mess around when it comes to anti-discrimination laws.
Healthcare Access: If you’re 16 or 17 and need gender-affirming care, Maine’s got you covered—even if your parents aren’t on board.
Educational Environment: Schools in Maine are working on being inclusive as hell, with state-backed policies to support LGBTQIA+ students
Drawback: While most of Maine’s pretty supportive, you might run into some pushback in smaller towns. Rural areas don’t always have the same resources as bigger hubs, so you’ll need to stay sharp and keep pushing for progress.
Honorable Mentions
New Mexico: Affordable and progressive, with solid trans protections.
Rhode Island: Tiny but mighty, with strong legal and healthcare protections.
Connecticut: Quietly trans-friendly, with excellent healthcare coverage.
What to Look For in a Safe State
Anti-Discrimination Laws: Make sure the state protects gender identity in work, housing, and public spaces.
Healthcare Access: Look for states that mandate insurance coverage for gender-affirming care.
Community and Resources: States with active LGBTQIA+ networks and supportive cities are safer bets.
Sanctuary Protections: Some states won’t comply with anti-trans extraditions or prosecutions.
Sources
Movement Advancement Project. "Equality Maps: LGBTQ Non-Discrimination Laws." www.lgbtmap.org
National Center for Transgender Equality. "State Guides to Trans Rights." www.transequality.org
Human Rights Campaign. "State Scorecards for LGBTQ Equality." www.hrc.org
GLAAD. "State LGBTQ Legal Protections and Risks." www.glaad.org
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). "Sanctuary States for Trans Youth and Families." www.aclu.org
The Trevor Project. "Safe Places for LGBTQ Youth." www.thetrevorproject.org
Transgender Law Center. "Healthcare Access by State." www.transgenderlawcenter.org
Forbes. "Cost of Living Rankings for LGBTQ-Friendly States." www.forbes.com