Trans and gender-non-conforming people, especially those who are Black, Indigenous, or people of color, face unique barriers to housing, healthcare, and safety. These organizations focus on mutual aid, legal defense, and building joyful, safe spaces for trans life.
Local Chicago Trans Organizations
Chicago has a rich history of trans resistance. These local groups continue that work through direct service and community care.
Brave Space Alliance
- The first Black-led, trans-led LGBTQ+ center on the South Side of Chicago. They provide essential services like a community pantry, support groups, and housing resources.
- Support: Brave Space Alliance Donation Page
Transformative Justice Law Project of Illinois (TJLP)
- A collective of radical activists and lawyers providing free gender-affirming legal services, including name changes and support for incarcerated trans people.
- Support: TJLP Donation Page
Lighthouse Foundation of Chicagoland
- A Black LGBTQ+-led organization that advocates for Black queer and trans equity across the city through social justice campaigns and community events.
- Support: Lighthouse Foundation Donation Page
Project Fierce Chicago
- A grassroots mutual aid project that provides transitional housing and support services to LGBTQ+ young adults experiencing homelessness.
- Support: Project Fierce Website
Broadway Youth Center
- A program of Howard Brown Health that acts as a safe-haven and “home base” for LGBTQ+ youth, providing healthcare, basic needs, and social services.
- Support: Broadway Youth Center Support Page
National Trans Organizations
These national groups focus on legal advocacy, crisis support, and direct financial assistance for trans individuals across the country.
Transgender Law Center (TLC)
- The largest national trans-led organization. TLC focuses on litigation, policy advocacy, and community-led programs to change law and policy.
- Support: TLC Donation Page
Sylvia Rivera Law Project (SRLP)
- Named after the legendary activist, SRLP works to guarantee that all people are free to self-determine their gender identity and expression, regardless of income or race.
- Support: SRLP Donation Page
Marsha P. Johnson Institute
- An organization that protects and defends the human rights of Black transgender people by organizing and advocating for an end to violence and systemic exclusion.
- Support: Marsha P. Johnson Institute Donation Page
Trans Lifeline
- A grassroots hotline and micro-grants organization offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis—for the community, by the community.
- Support: Trans Lifeline Donation Page
The Okra Project
- A collective that addresses the global crisis of food insecurity faced by Black Trans people by providing home-cooked, healthy, and culturally specific meals.
- Support: The Okra Project Website
And The List Goes On!
Please note that the organizations featured here are intended as a starting point and do not constitute an exhaustive list. There are countless other incredible groups doing vital work, and you’re encouraged to explore and seek out additional organizations that align with your specific interests and values. If you feel called to take action, we invite you to get involved in whatever way resonates most with you: whether through advocacy, volunteering, or community support. Follow your heart and find the space where your contribution feels most meaningful.