In an event that blends practical support with a sense of solidarity, hundreds of transgender and nonbinary Georgians flocked to Atlanta City Hall on Thursday to apply for free passports, a crucial document for their identity and travel.
A Safe Space to Secure Identity Documents
On November 20, 2024, around 200 transgender individuals gathered at a bustling event organized by pro-transgender groups Solutions Not Punishment Collaborative (SNAPCO) and TransSocial. The goal? To help community members obtain passports that reflect their true gender identities—something that many in the transgender community often struggle to secure due to bureaucratic challenges.
“This document isn’t just about travel,” says Bruno Clesca, a volunteer at the event and non-binary military vet. “It’s about the federal government acknowledging your identity. When you’re misgendered abroad, it can be more than uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. A passport with your true gender is essential to feeling recognized as who you are.”
Clesca, who has lived overseas for years, stresses that a passport doesn’t just offer practical advantages; it’s a critical step for trans people in their fight for social recognition. “Having a government-recognized identity on a passport can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of legitimacy in the eyes of the world.”
Navigating Fears of Political Pushback
For many attendees, this event held an extra layer of significance as they prepare for the shifting political climate that may come with the return of Donald Trump to the White House in January.
“People are scared that access to gender-affirming care and the ability to self-certify gender may be restricted,” said Harvey Yeager, a 22-year-old transgender health researcher. “Some are rushing to come out and get the care they need, fearing it won’t be available under a more conservative government.”
The underlying fear stems from Trump’s campaign rhetoric, which frequently focused on rolling back protections for transgender individuals. His promises to undo policies on transgender rights in schools and on sports teams has left many feeling vulnerable. As Georgia lawmakers are also poised to bring up legislation that targets transgender issues in January, the urgency to get these critical documents becomes even more apparent.
“Events like these create a sense of relief,” Yeager adds. “We don’t have to navigate the system alone.”
Despite the weight of the moment, the atmosphere at the passport clinic was one of celebration and camaraderie. Participants shared laughs and stories as they filled out forms, knowing they were not just securing a document, but also a step towards being fully recognized in their gender.
A Picture-Perfect Moment of Affirmation
While the paperwork was being filled out, attendees had the opportunity to refresh their look for their passport photo. Hair and makeup volunteers were on hand to help those who wanted to look their best, creating an atmosphere of care and inclusivity.
For many, these small acts of kindness were part of a larger sense of community support. Jada Brooks, one of the attendees, expressed excitement at getting her new passport, with plans to travel to Egypt. “It’s such a relief to have this process be so seamless, especially when I know that my identity is being recognized,” she said as she posed for a photo.
Once the forms were completed and the photos taken, volunteers helped the attendees catch shuttles to a nearby passport office, covering all fees. This service was a lifeline for many who might have struggled to pay for such documents otherwise.
Political Tensions Loom in Georgia’s State Capitol
As the event unfolded, Georgia’s political landscape continued to shift. The state legislature is set to convene in January, and with a newly empowered conservative agenda, more legislation targeting transgender people could soon be on the table.
At a recent election night gathering, Senate President Pro Tempore John Kennedy predicted that Trump’s win would signal an end to the attention given to transgender issues. He suggested that Georgia, in particular, would no longer have to deal with these topics, framing them as problems that weren’t part of the state’s past.
However, not all lawmakers are in agreement. State Rep. Park Cannon, a Democrat from Atlanta and member of the LGBTQ community, voiced confidence in her party’s ability to push back against anti-transgender legislation. “We’re focused on making sure that transgender people know they can get ID before the new administration comes in,” Cannon said, “and that we will fight against harmful bills when they arise.”
Future Actions and Support for Transgender Georgians
Despite the heavy political challenges ahead, advocates are committed to offering continued support for transgender individuals. SNAPCO Executive Director Toni-Michelle Williams urges Georgians to stay politically active. “This is a time for building power,” Williams said. “Join organizations, make your voice heard, and build a base of people who can fight back when needed.”
As Georgia braces for a turbulent legislative session, these grassroots efforts highlight the resilience and determination of the transgender community in the state.
