HOUSTON — Today a coalition of LGBTQ rights groups announced the launch of TxTransKids.org. The online hub will serve as a formal support network for K-12 transgender students and their families looking for resources about how to get what they need in school. Specifically, the online portal will offer information on practical issues related to school dress codes, bullying, harassment, access to facilities, and Gender and Sexualities Alliances (GSAs). The portal will also allow families to connect with a specialist over the phone to discuss their needs in more detail.
The ACLU of Texas, Equality Texas, Lambda Legal, and the Transgender Education Network of Texas launched TxTransKids.org ahead of the International Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31.
“Often, resources for transgender, gender-nonconforming, and non-binary students, their families and support circles can be difficult to access in Texas. We are so excited to see the launch of this resource to provide a credible place where people can find answers they’re looking for or support they are in need of,” said Emmett Schelling, executive director for the Transgender Education Network of Texas. “We are excited to see the results that this will bring for students and their support systems. It’s a positive step to give accessibility to ensuring that these students can not just survive, but thrive, flourish, and succeed.”
“We look forward to connecting with transgender and gender-nonconforming students--and the people who love them--in this collaborative space with our partners,” said Kali Cohn, staff attorney for the ACLU of Texas. “Together we hope to provide a centralized source for the information and resources kids and their families need so that they can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.”
“As the parent of a transgender child, I have personally felt and seen the immense need for information and resources across the state,” said Rachel Gonzales, Education and Resource Coordinator for the Equality Texas. “I am excited to share this new tool and support families like mine across the state.”
“TxTransKids.org is a robust online information hub for transgender and gender diverse students across Texas,” said Paul D. Castillo, senior attorney and students’ rights strategist for Lambda Legal. “Every student deserves a healthy, safe, and supportive learning environment and access to affirming resources and critical support networks are key. Working with our partners, we aim to provide the most relevant information for Texas youth encountering barriers to accessing equal educational opportunities because of their gender identity.”
