Another change the newest presidential administration is keen on is recognizing only two genders.
President Donald Trump signed the executive order during his inaugural address on Monday.
The statement sent shockwaves through LGBTQ+ communities nationwide, including in San Antonio.
“It’s really sad, and just further highlights the fear, and begs the question of, ‘Why? Why are nonbinary folks and trans folks so feared?’” Pride Center of San Antonio Program Manager Erica Alcocer said.
Alcocer believes a lack of understanding is what fuels that fear.
“Not knowing what it means to be nonbinary, what it means to be trans,” they said.
Alcocer has already heard and seen the fallout from Trump’s executive order.
“The impacts and the harm and the violence that that brings. We see it a lot with our youth bullying,” Alcocer said. “It encourages so many other factors of harassment and denying one’s existence, which has very serious impacts for one’s mental health.”
There is a concern the executive order could unravel years of work on community inclusion. Additionally, the Trump administration is also targeting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs.
Alcocer wants to make sure the community knows the Pride Center of San Antonio is ready to support them.
The Pride Center of San Antonio offers:
- hotlines
- support groups
- case management
- counseling
- youth programs
Alcocer wants people to find the support they need by surrounding themselves with other people in the LGBTQ+ community.
“I think I would just let them know that their feelings are valid, but I also want to let you know that there’s hope,” Alcocer said. “There’s tons of hope and strength in our community and strength and reaching out for help when you need it.”
Programming at the Pride Center goes beyond the LGBTQ+ community. There are programs for other allies who want to learn, understand and support the community.
Anyone interested in learning more about the center’s services can call (210) 370-PRIDE (7743) or email info@pridecentersa.org.