One Colorado, a leading LGBTQ+ advocacy group in the state, recently announced two programs to bolster transgender rights across the state.
On Jan 16, Cal Solverson, One Colorado’s Development and Communications Manager, revealed two initiatives focusing on supporting the trans community through the organization’s blog.
One of the initiatives, which the organization is calling “TransForming the Narrative” aims to ‘shift the conversation on transgender rights’ through elevating the stories and experiences of transgender Coloradans. One Colorado launched this program in response to what it describes as a “rising tide of anti-trans rhetoric and harmful policies.” Transgender people and identities have become a political target for conservative leaders both nationally and in Colorado.
“Stories have the power to transform hearts and minds,”Jax Gonzalez, One Colorado’s Political Director, said in the blog post. “With TransForming the Narrative, we’re centering the voices of transgender Coloradans to build bridges of understanding and create a future where everyone can live authentically and free from discrimination. This is about solidarity, education, and action to ensure Colorado stands firmly for trans equality.”
One Colorado intends for the statewide initiative to unite advocates, allies, and community members to combat misconceptions about transgender people and bolster a movement rallying around trans equality.
“By engaging with the broader community, One Colorado hopes to build a collective front in the fight for trans equality—one that is rooted in shared knowledge, respect, and solidarity,” writes Solverson.
One Colorado additionally announced the launch of the Transgender Changemaker Cohort, a new 6-month remote training program aimed at empowering transgender advocates in Colorado. According to the organization, the cohort “will equip trans activists with the tools and support they need to build collective power in their communities.”
In Solverson’s announcement, they say that the cohort will provide participants with opportunities to broaden their network and improve their skills in advocacy in storytelling. It will focus on reaching out to those Coloradans who aren’t informed about trans rights but aren’t completely opposed to the concept. Similarly to the “TransForming the Narrative” initiative, the cohort program allows for those involved to come together to advocate for the rights of transgender Coloradans.
One Colorado recently opened their applications for the Transgender Changemaker Cohort program.
“The far right is trying to divide us with false narratives and harmful legislation,” says Alex Floyd, the Health Equity Director at One Colorado. “We are committed to bringing people together to build a better more inclusive future for everyone in our state. The Transgender Changemaker Cohort is one way we can ensure that trans leaders have the support and resources they need to effect meaningful change.”
Solverson describes these initiatives in their announcement as a call to action, adding that One Colorado welcomes everyone from LGBTQ+ individuals, allies, and community members to
“By getting involved in the fight for equality, you can help ensure that Colorado remains a state that champions freedom, justice, and the rights of all its citizens,” Solverson writes. “From healthcare access and gender-affirming care to non-discrimination protections, there is much work to be done, but we can make real change when we stand united.”
