Our Story

California TRANScends is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transgender advocacy and empowerment. Our mission is to uplift, support, and advocate for the rights of transgender individuals. Established in 2019 in response to the alarming attacks on transgender Americans and the growing threat of fascism, our organization recognizes the urgent need for a transgender civil rights campaign.

As a Black trans woman-led organization, we strive to create a safe and inclusive space for partners, families, and friends of the transgender community to come together and collaborate toward a brighter future. Through our diverse range of events, workshops, and campaigns, we aim to foster education, understanding, and celebration of transgender identities. We invite you to join us and become an integral part of our movement, working towards a world that embraces and uplifts everyone.

California TRANScends Advocates for the Following 5 Pillars to Advance Transgender Rights:

Housing Equity: We believe safe, affordable, and inclusive housing is a fundamental human right. We work tirelessly to combat discrimination in housing and ensure equal access to secure and welcoming living environments for transgender individuals.
Health Equity: We strive for equitable healthcare access for transgender individuals, addressing the unique healthcare needs and challenges we face. Our goal is to eliminate barriers to transgender-inclusive healthcare, promote mental health support, and advocate for comprehensive gender-affirming care.
Employment Equality: We advocate for fair and inclusive employment opportunities, aiming to eradicate workplace discrimination based on gender identity. Through education, policy advocacy, and collaboration with employers, we seek to create environments where transgender individuals can thrive and succeed.
Human Togetherness: We believe in the power of human togetherness to actively promote a society that embraces diverse transgender experiences. Through narrative work, we aim to change hearts and minds, shifting public consciousness through various mediums like print, film, podcasts, and social media campaigns. Our carefully designed programs and initiatives focus on building bridges between communities, and fostering open dialogue and understanding. By amplifying the lived experiences of transgender individuals, we inspire genuine connections and cultivate empathy. Human Togetherness is at the core of our work, as we strive to create spaces where transgender voices are heard, understood, and celebrated. Join us on this transformative journey to build a society that values diversity, understanding, and cherishes the humanity of every individual.
Economic Justice: We work towards economic empowerment for transgender individuals, addressing systemic barriers and advocating for equal access to economic opportunities. Our efforts include promoting fair wages, supporting entrepreneurship, and challenging economic disparities that disproportionately affect the transgender community.

Through these five pillars, California TRANScends aims to transform society by advancing transgender civil rights, uplifting the voices and experiences of Black trans women, and creating a more just and inclusive world for all.