Improve your skills as an advocate to trans communities by learning how to treat us as whole and autonomous beings, and educating your colleagues and organizational leaders about gender diversity. When connecting us to other services, one thing you can do is to call ahead and ask questions about the policies and practices of that organization. When you do this, we as trans people can make a more informed choice about our options while maintaining our privacy.
Important note
Do not disclose personal or identifying information about someone you are advocating for unless you have been given explicit permission to do so
Basic Script
After introducing yourself and explaining why you are calling, here are some good questions you can ask:
- Are you familiar with working with trans people in your program/service? Have you served trans people before?
- Do you have trans people on staff in your program/service?
- Are there designated staff people in your program/service that work with trans people?
- Have staff received any training on working with trans communities? Do you have gender-neutral bathrooms, showers, and sleeping areas? How has your staff handled gender segregation in the past with trans participants?
- If a person’s legal identification reflects a different name or gender designation, will this affect their ability to access services?
- Do you have any other policies that might impact this person in accessing your program/service? Is there anything else I should tell this person before they contact your organization?
- Is there anything else I should tell this person before they contact your organization?
- Do you have any questions or concerns about this referral?
another note
If a provider indicates that a trans person is unwelcome or ineligible for services based on their gender identity or expression, refer to this page for more information, as well as How to File a Discrimination Complaint.