The recent comments made by actor Alan Cumming on The View have brought attention to the plight of transgender Americans, who are facing increasingly hostile attacks from the government. Cumming, a longtime LGBTQ+ advocate, condemned the “absolutely heinous” moves made by the Trump administration, which have led to the removal of protections for transgender people and restrictions on their access to healthcare. It’s heartening to see celebrities like Cumming using their platform to speak out against these injustices and bring awareness to the struggles faced by the transgender community.
The fact that the government is trying to legislate the existence of transgender people out of reality is not only shocking but also devastating. As Cumming pointed out, it’s unimaginable to think about what it must be like for a trans person to know that their government is actively working against them. The recent executive orders signed by President Trump, which target “gender ideology” in schools and restrict access to gender-affirming care for people under 19, are a clear attack on the rights and dignity of transgender individuals.
It’s not just the policies themselves that are harmful, but also the rhetoric that surrounds them. The constant barrage of negative and dehumanizing language used to describe transgender people has created a toxic environment that fosters hate and intolerance. As Cumming said, the focus on issues like bathrooms is a “smokescreen” that hides the true intentions of those who seek to harm and marginalize the transgender community.
Despite the challenges and setbacks, it’s essential to remain hopeful and committed to the fight for transgender rights. The fact that people like Cumming are speaking out and using their platforms to amplify the voices of transgender individuals is a testament to the power of solidarity and allyship. We must continue to educate ourselves, listen to the experiences of transgender people, and advocate for policies that promote equality and inclusivity.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has reported that over 500 bills were introduced across the country in 2024 that targeted LGBTQ+ people, including restrictions on trans people’s healthcare, access to bathrooms, and ability to update their legal documents. This is a stark reminder that the fight for transgender rights is far from over. We must remain vigilant and continue to push back against these attacks, using our collective voices to demand justice and equality for all.
In the face of adversity, it’s essential to remember that we are not alone. There are countless individuals, organizations, and communities working tirelessly to support and uplift transgender people. By standing together and advocating for the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity, we can create a more just and inclusive society. As Cumming so eloquently put it, “What kind of country are we in where we take rights away from people? Do you know what I mean? What is going on?” It’s time for us to come together and demand a better answer to this question.