Ultimate Transgender Survival Guide (Chicago edition)
Table of Contents
Crisis Hotlines, Textlines, and Chat Rooms
but After 9 Years, I’ve Finally Found It
Non-binary, and Intersex Writers
Transition, Acceptance, and Joy
understand and support transgender folks?
and Gender-Diverse People: Best Practices
for Frontline Healthcare Staff
Practitioners: Guides and Toolkits
Guidebook for LGBTQ+ and Intellectual
(MASGD) Resource Guide: Orgs in the US
understand and support transgender people?
Churches and Religious Institutions
day schools, summer camps, Hillels, and Jewish
Asian and Pacific Islander Americans
professionals to better understand and support
transgender parents and children?
Non-binary Foster and Adoptive Parents
Non-Regulatory Guidance: Supporting
employees better understand and support
Transgender Students in K-12 Schools
Transgender Persons in Illinois
of Protection for LGBTQ Workers
employers to better understand and support transgender
Non-binary, or Gender Non-conforming
A letter from the author
Dear reader,
I wrote this for you out of love. Love for my transgender siblings, rage at the state of trans rights in this country, and hope that I could make a positive impact on the lives of trans folks in my community and beyond. In this resource guide, you will find resources that tackle a wide spectrum of issues: healthcare, housing, legal needs, family support, to name a few. Wherever possible, there are resources for Chicago residents, but there are also broader resources that could benefit folks in other cities and states too. Not all of the resources here will be strictly for trans folks; some are for the wider LGBT community, but trans-specific information is provided wherever possible.
As of September 2025, all of the links in this document work properly. I attempted, wherever possible, to use sources with expertise in the subject they are discussing. For example, health information is mostly from health care providers, health news websites (when articles are reviewed by doctors or nurses), health organizations and medical bodies, individuals with lived experience, and websites dedicated to transgender concerns. I also took steps to ensure that any supportive organizations or social groups listed here are still active and providing services or hosting events. Nothing in this document constitutes medical or legal advice.
I used the term “survival guide” in the title, but trans people can and do thrive with the right supports. I hope this helps, and if you’re searching for it, I hope you find hope and joy along the way. There is so much out there, I promise.
Best wishes,
A.S.
Crisis Hotlines, Textlines, and Chat Rooms
Who can I turn to in a crisis?
Crisis hotlines and textlines:
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/
https://www.lgbthotline.org/chat
https://www.childhelphotline.org/
Finding Trans Joy
Where can I find stories of trans joy?
https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/trans-joy
https://www.refinery29.com/en-au/finding-trans-joy
https://www.unabridgedbookstore.com/book/9781800180567
https://redtheater.org/the-pilon
Finding Trans Hope
Where can I find stories of trans hope?
International:
National:
https://www.them.us/story/trans-male-judge-seth-marnin
Illinois:
https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.26081.html
Transgender Health
Where can I access gender-affirming healthcare?
UChicago Medicine - Offers a wide variety of gender-affirming healthcare services, including:
Why choose this provider?:
Links:
Overview - (Services Performed, Links to More Information, How to Make an Appointment) -
https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/conditions-services/transgender-care-services
Gender Affirmation Procedures (List of Surgeries Offered) - https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/conditions-services/gender-confirmation-surgery/procedures
Psychology and Psychiatry Services (Mental Health Care) - https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/conditions-services/psychiatry-and-psychology
Social Work Services - https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/conditions-services/social-work-services
Accepted Insurance - https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/patients-visitors/patient-information/insurance
Billing and Financial Assistance (Financial resources toward the bottom of the page) -
https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/patients-visitors/patient-information/billing
Visitor Information and Resources - https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/patients-visitors/visitor-information
Northwestern Medicine Gender Pathways Program - Offers a range of surgical, medical, and mental health services, including:
Why choose this provider?:
Links:
Overview - https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/gender-pathways-program
Feminizing Surgeries - https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/gender-pathways-program/feminizing-surgeries
Masculinizing Surgeries - https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/gender-pathways-program/masculinizing-surgeries
Frequently Asked Questions - https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/gender-pathways-program/frequently-asked-questions
Interpretation Services - https://www.nm.org/patients-and-visitors/patient-relations/interpretation-services
Mental Health Care Services - https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/behavioral-health
Social Work Services - https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/treatments/social-work
Insurance Information - https://www.nm.org/patients-and-visitors/billing-and-insurance/insurance-information
Financial Assistance - https://www.nm.org/patients-and-visitors/billing-and-insurance/financial-assistance
Patients and Visitors -
https://www.nm.org/patients-and-visitors
UI Health - Provides surgical services and additional support related to gender affirmation care, including:
Why choose this provider?:
Links:
Overview - https://hospital.uillinois.edu/primary-and-specialty-care/surgical-services/gender-affirming-surgery
Feminizing/De-Masculinizing Procedures - https://hospital.uillinois.edu/primary-and-specialty-care/surgical-services/gender-affirming-surgery/procedures/feminizing-demasculinizing-procedures
Masculinizing/De-Feminizing Procedures - https://hospital.uillinois.edu/primary-and-specialty-care/surgical-services/gender-affirming-surgery/procedures/masculinizing-defeminizing-procedures
Patient Pathway Information - https://hospital.uillinois.edu/primary-and-specialty-care/surgical-services/gender-affirming-surgery/patient-pathway-information
LGBTQ+ Inclusive Care - https://hospital.uillinois.edu/primary-and-specialty-care/lgbtq-plus-inclusive-care
Psychiatry Services - https://hospital.uillinois.edu/primary-and-specialty-care/psychiatry-services
Health Social Workers - https://hospital.uillinois.edu/patients-and-visitors/patient-information/financial-assistance/health-social-workers
Accepted Insurance Plans - https://hospital.uillinois.edu/patients-and-visitors/health-insurance-information/accepted-insurance-plans
Financial Assistance - https://hospital.uillinois.edu/patients-and-visitors/patient-information/financial-assistance
Accessible Resources and Services - https://hospital.uillinois.edu/patients-and-visitors/patient-information/accessible-resources
Patients and Visitors -
https://hospital.uillinois.edu/patients-and-visitors
Howard Brown Health - Offers medical, behavioral health, and case management services to transgender and non-binary people, including:
Note: Some community members have reported hostility and transphobia with this provider, but others have had positive experiences.
Why choose this provider?:
Links:
Hormone Therapy -
https://howardbrown.org/services/tnb-hormone-therapy/
Trans and Gender Diverse Surgical Navigation - https://howardbrown.org/trans-health/tnb-surgical-navigation/
Support Groups and Workshops - https://howardbrown.org/service/support-groups-and-workshops/
Group Therapy -
https://howardbrown.org/service/group-therapy/
Behavioral Health -
https://howardbrown.org/service/behavioral-health/
Accepted Insurance - https://howardbrown.org/patient-resources/insurance-payments/insurances-accepted/
Financial Assistance (Sliding Scale Procedure) - https://howardbrown.org/patient-resources/sliding-scale/
Rush University - Offers a full range of gender-affirming services, including:
Why choose this provider?:
Links:
Gender-Affirming Care -
https://www.rush.edu/services/gender-affirming-care
Gender-Affirming Surgeries - https://www.rush.edu/treatments/gender-affirmation-surgery
Non-Surgical Gender-Affirming Treatments - https://www.rush.edu/treatments/nonsurgical-gender-affirmation-treatments
Commitment to LGBTQ+ Health Care - https://www.rush.edu/about-us/diversity-equity-and-inclusion/commitment-lgbtq-health-care
Interpreter Services -
https://www.rush.edu/patients-visitors/interpreter-services
Psychiatry and Psychology Services - https://www.rush.edu/services/psychiatry-and-psychology-services
Social Work and Community Health Services - https://www.rush.edu/services/social-work-and-community-health-services
Accepted Insurance Plans -
https://www.rush.edu/rush-copley-medical-group/patient-information/accepted-insurance-plans
Financial Assistance -
https://www.rush.edu/patients-visitors/financial-assistance
Patients and Visitors -
https://www.rush.edu/patients-visitors
Planned Parenthood of Illinois - Provides gender-affirming hormone therapy to transgender, non-binary, and gender-expansive folks ages 16 and up, including:
Why choose this provider?:
Links:
Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy - https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-illinois/patient-resources/gender-affirming-hormone-therapy
Accepted Insurance Plans - https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-illinois/patient-resources/payment-options/private-insurance
Medicaid & Medicaid Managed Care Plans - https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-illinois/patient-resources/payment-options/medicaid
Chicago Women’s Health Center - Offers several services for trans folks, including:
Note: CWHC is only in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, Humana PPO, and United PPO insurance plans for gynecological care and trans health services and only in network with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois' PPO for counseling.
Why choose this provider?:
Links:
Trans Health Services -
https://www.chicagowomenshealthcenter.org/trans-health
Counseling -
https://www.chicagowomenshealthcenter.org/counseling
Paying for Services - https://www.chicagowomenshealthcenter.org/paying-for-services
Gender Development Program at Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago - Provides services aimed at supporting the physical, mental, and social health of patients and their families as youth progress through gender identity development, including:
Why choose this provider?:
Links:
https://www.luriechildrens.org/en/patients-visitors/
TransLife Care (TLC) Program at Chicago House - Provides free healthcare and social services to vulnerable individuals who identify as trans, non-binary, or gender expansive, including:
Why choose this provider?:
Link:
TransLife Care -
https://www.chicagohouse.org/translife-care
Where can I find free and low-cost medical care?
General:
https://www.centeronhalsted.org
Prescriptions:
Harm reduction and safe sex supplies:
https://airtable.com/appZ3gegPQI36VqRp/pagKHJ7gti2bdzzlB/form
Dental:
Where can I get a letter of recommendation for gender-affirming surgery?
https://www.centeronhalsted.org/behavioralhealth.html
Where can I learn more about transgender health?
General health:
https://glma.org/10_things_transgender_people_s.php
https://transhealthproject.org/
https://app.wpath.org/provider/search
Note: This page has strobing lights.
Mental health:
Binding:
Packing:
https://www.folxhealth.com/library/transgender-packer-guide/
Tucking:
Hair Removal:
https://transcare.ucsf.edu/guidelines/hair-removal
Puberty blockers:
Hormone therapy:
Facial feminization:
https://www.facialfeminization.net/
Note: This page has strobing lights.
Voice training and voice surgeries:
Top surgery:
https://topsurgeryguidebook.com/
Non-binary surgery options:
https://www.phallo.net/non-binary.htm
Orchiectomy, vulvoplasty, and vaginoplasty surgeries:
https://www.mtfsurgery.net/orchiectomy.htm
Hysterectomy, phalloplasty, and metoidioplasty surgeries:
https://www.phallo.net/non-binary.htm
https://www.metoidioplasty.net/
Scrotoplasty surgery:
https://www.healthline.com/health/scrotoplasty
Gender surgeon directories:
https://www.transhealthcare.org/
https://app.wpath.org/provider/search
https://find.plasticsurgery.org/
https://www.mtfsurgery.net/surgeons/
https://www.ftmsurgery.net/surgeons/
Sex education:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CuSi6oLtbwo
https://www.instagram.com/p/CxjAgF_rQ9V
Sexual and domestic violence:
Pregnancy:
https://transfertility.co/resources/resiliency
https://www.transhub.org.au/pregnancy
Note: For support groups and online communities for pregnant and parenting trans folks, see the “Family” section
Abortion:
https://www.all-options.org/find-support/
https://www.healthline.com/health/surgical-abortion
https://www.abortionfinder.org/
Note: Planned Parenthood and Chicago Women's Health Center are two trans-inclusive options.
https://www.abortion.shop/pride-stories
https://emulsify.art/zines/trans-abortion
Breastfeeding:
https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/106/5/e2047/6123860
Periods:
https://www.transhub.org.au/menstruation
HIV/AIDS:
Addiction:
https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking/i-want-to-quit
https://alcoholtreatment.niaaa.nih.gov/
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
https://www.findtreatment.gov/
Cancer:
https://www.transcancerzine.com/
Senior care:
Navigating health insurance:
https://transhealthproject.org/
https://out2enroll.org/enrollment-help/
Your healthcare rights:
https://transhealthproject.org/
https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.25067.html
Medical and scientific literature:
Where can I find resources to help health workers better understand and support transgender folks?
Affirmative Services for Transgender and Gender-Diverse People: Best Practices for Frontline Healthcare Staff - https://www.lgbtqiahealtheducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/TFIE-40_Best-Practices-for-Frontline-Health-Care-Staff-Publication_web_final.pdf
Transgender Affirming Hospital Policies - https://assets2.hrc.org/files/assets/resources/TransAffirming-HospitalPolicies-2016.pdf
Healthcare Equality Index Resource Guide (Best practices and resources) - https://www.thehrcfoundation.org/professional-resources/hei-resource-guide
Note: Tailored resources and real-world examples of best practices can be found under each section, under "HEI Scored Questions."
Learning Resources: Transgender Health - https://www.lgbtqiahealtheducation.org/resources/in/transgender-health/
Learning Resources: LGBTQIA+ People of Color - https://www.lgbtqiahealtheducation.org/resources/in/lgbtqia-people-of-color/
Transgender Research and Medicine SIG - https://www.endocrine.org/our-community/special-interest-groups/transgender-research-and-medicine
LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Resources for Prevention Practitioners: Guides and Toolkits - https://www.preventconnect.org/2023/06/lgbtqia-inclusion-resources-for-prevention-practitioners-guides-and-toolkits/
Our Lives, Our Choices, Our Rights: Guidebook for LGBTQ+ and Intellectual Disabilities -
https://rainbowguidebook.com/chapters/introduction/
Food
Who can help me with food?
LGBT-specific resources:
https://www.taskforcechicago.org/essential-services/
Other resources:
https://www.communitykitchenchicago.org/mutual-aid-map
https://www.thelovefridge.com/find-a-fridge
https://www.chicagosfoodbank.org/find-food/
https://arkchicago.org/our-services/food-assistance/
https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/recipient/eligibility
Pet food:
https://anticruelty.org/pantries
Clothing
Where can I find free gender-affirming clothing?
Brave Space Alliance - Offers gender-affirming clothing, makeup, and accessories through the Dignity Suite. Open to all, but prioritizes BIPOC transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary folks.
Link:
https://www.bravespacealliance.org/supportgroups
Trans Chicago Empowerment Center - A BIPOC trans-led initiative of the Puerto Rican cultural center. They have a free gender-affirming closet with clothing and accessories. These items range from professional clothing, casual clothing, winter clothing, summer clothing, to shoes.
Link:
https://instagram.com/transchicago
Center on Halsted - Offers a free closet for youth up to 24 to find clothing that affirms their identity.
Link:
https://www.centeronhalsted.org/youth-family
Taskforce Chicago - An organization serving young LGBTQ+ from disenfranchised communities. They offer basic clothing items through their community closet.
Links:
Instagram -
https://instagram.com/its_taskforce
Essential Services -
https://www.taskforcechicago.org/essential-services/
Life is Work - A Black and brown trans women led social services organization in Chicago. Their Solidarity Community Closet is open to all trans, queer, and non-binary people. They have professional wear for interviews and career readiness.
Links:
Instagram -
https://instagram.com/life.iswork
Programming -
https://lifeiswork.org/programming
Point of Pride - An organization that offers free chest binders and femme shapewear to trans people who cannot afford them or obtain them safely. They also offer financial assistance for gender-affirming surgeries, hormone therapy, and electrolysis.
Link:
https://www.pointofpride.org/free-chest-binders
Gender Junk Program - Provides binders, gaffs, packers, bras, StP devices, makeup, and other gender-affirming items to transgender youth who do not have the financial means to purchase them themselves or affirming families to purchase.
Link:
https://transfamilysos.org/genderjunk/
Free Youth Binder Program - For people 24 and under who are unable to purchase a binder on their own due to financial circumstances. They are offering a limited number of free binders to qualifying individuals.
Link:
https://www.ftmessentials.com/pages/ftme-free-youth-binder-program
Where can I buy gender-affirming clothing?
Trans Gear Links - Shows a variety of companies who sell gender-affirming clothing and accessories.
Link:
https://transfamilysos.org/trans-gear-links/
Housing
Who can help me with housing?
Housing resources and homeless shelters:
https://www.chicagohouse.org/translife-care
https://lifeiswork.org/programming
https://www.thenightministry.org/housing
https://www.ilhousingsearch.org/index.html
Long-term care:
State and city programs:
Your housing rights:
Housing discrimination and tenant support:
https://carpls.org/services/cook-county-hotline/
Legal Support
Who can help me change my name and gender marker on legal documents?
Transformative Justice Law Project of Illinois - Strongly believe in gender self-determination for all, and provide the following free services in support of that ideal:
What to know:
Links:
TransLife Care at Chicago House - Hosts free legal clinic drop-ins. Services include:
What to know:
Link:
https://www.chicagohouse.org/translife-care
UIC Law: Pro Bono Litigation Clinic - Offer free legal services to transgender people, such as assistance with:
What to know:
Links:
Name and Gender Marker Change Services - https://uofi.app.box.com/s/qeqpbnsix37bys83ysdthud325l8gsrv
Name and Gender Marker Change Checklist - https://uofi.app.box.com/s/t01kiuwd1er7rlbyx5njneufthni6a4v
Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund (TLDEF) - Provides pro-bono legal services to low-income transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary people through partnerships with some of the nation's most prestigious law firms and corporate law departments, including:
What to know:
Link:
Who can help me with legal needs related to domestic and sexual violence?
Legal Aid Chicago - Focuses on cases where personal safety and financial stability are at risk. Provide free legal services, such as:
Link:
https://legalaidchicago.org/get-help/how-can-we-help
Life Span - Provides legal services and advocacy for victims of domestic and sexual violence, including immigrant victims. They can assist with:
What to know:
Links:
https://life-span.org/programs-and-services/
CAASE - Provide free legal services for survivors of sexual assault, sexual stalking, and sex trafficking with any background or identity who were harmed in Cook County, IL, and are aged 13+. Attorneys assist survivors in criminal and civil matters, including:
What to know:
Link:
https://www.caase.org/legal-services/
Where can I find more transgender legal resources?
General legal rights:
https://transequality.org/know-your-rights/
Identity documents:
https://translifeline.org/resources/id-change-library
Emancipation:
Trans parenthood:
Restraining orders:
Immigration:
Medical and death rights:
Community
Where can I find local queer and trans community groups?
Brave Space Alliance - A Black-led, Trans-Led LGBTQ+ Center on the South Side of Chicago. They provide:
What to know:
Address:
1515 E. 52nd Place, Third Floor
Phone number:
872-333-5199
Links:
Home -
https://bravespacealliance.org/
The Dignity Suite and Support Groups -
https://www.bravespacealliance.org/supportgroups
Community Pantry - https://www.bravespacealliance.org/copy-of-community-pantry-2
The Jasmine Alexander Housing Building - https://www.bravespacealliance.org/jasminealexanderhousinginitiative
Contact -
https://bravespacealliance.org/contact/
Center on Halsted - The Midwest’s most comprehensive community center dedicated to advancing community and securing the health and well-being of LGBTQ people in Chicago. They offer:
What to know:
Address:
3656 N Halsted St
Phone number:
773-472-6469 or TTY 773-661-0954
Links:
Home -
https://www.centeronhalsted.org/
Race Equity Statement - https://centeronhalsted.medium.com/equity-statement-from-center-on-halsted-cffaa2531037
Events (Filter by “Event Types” for support and therapy groups) -
https://www.centeronhalsted.org/events-calendar
Youth Programs -
https://www.centeronhalsted.org/youthhousing.html
Senior Programs (including housing) -
https://www.centeronhalsted.org/senior.html
Contact -
https://www.centeronhalsted.org/contact.html
Howard Brown Health - Offers medical, behavioral health, and case management services to LGBTQ+ people, including:
Note: Some community members have reported hostility and transphobia with this provider, but others have had positive experiences.
Phone number:
773-388-1600
Links:
Home -
Support Groups and Workshops - https://howardbrown.org/service/support-groups-and-workshops/
Therapy Groups -
https://howardbrown.org/service/group-therapy/
Trans & Non-binary Health - https://howardbrown.org/service/trans-nonbinary-health/
Locations -
https://howardbrown.org/locations/
Contact -
https://howardbrown.org/contact-us/
Asylum Support Group - A free monthly group where trans, non-binary, and queer asylum seekers and asylees can share their unique journeys, challenges, and triumphs in a safe space and foster community
What to know:
Link:
https://www.instagram.com/p/C7jaSf3AEjI/
Trans Chicago Empowerment Center - A BIPOC trans led initiative of the Puerto Rican Cultural Center. They provide the following free services:
Address:
2753 W Division St
Phone number:
773-698-7473
Link:
https://instagram.com/transchicago
Lighthouse Foundation - A Black, LGBTQ+-led, multi-racial social justice organization that advances justice for Black LGBTQ+ people across Chicagoland through empowerment, education, and entertainment. They offer:
Address:
2335 N Orchard St
Links:
Home -
https://www.lightfoundchi.org/
Black LGBTQ+ Caucus -
https://www.lightfoundchi.org/bqc
Coalition of Accomplices for Racial Equality (CARE) -
https://www.lightfoundchi.org/care
Events -
https://www.lightfoundchi.org/events
Contact -
https://www.lightfoundchi.org/contact
Affinity - A Black led, queer led organization dedicated to social justice in Black LGBTQ+ communities. With a particular focus on Black queer women, they offer:
What to know:
Address:
2850 S. Wabash Ave, Suite 108, rear entrance
Phone number:
773-324-0377
Email:
info@affinity95.org
Links:
Home -
Peer Groups -
https://www.affinity95.org/peer-groups
Contact Us -
https://www.affinity95.org/contact-5
Pushing Envelopes Chicago - A collectively-run volunteer organization that builds LGBTQ+ community across bars through penpal relationships, legal aid, and re-entry support. Membership consists of currently incarcerated, formerly incarcerated, system-impacted, and allied individuals with a shared commitment to building community at the intersection of incarceration and LGBTQ+ identities.
Links:
Linktree -
https://linktr.ee/pushingenvelopeschicago
The Queer Social Club - Hosts a variety of queer social events.
Link:
https://instagram.com/thequeersocialclub
Samcha Chicago - A place for queer Koreans to gather and foster new traditions. There's no commitment to land or language.
Link:
https://instagram.com/samchachicago
Invisible 2 Invincible - A community-based organization that celebrates and affirms Asian, Pacific Islander, & Desi Americans who are LGBTQ+ in the Chicago area
Links:
Facebook -
https://m.facebook.com/i2iAPIPride/
Instagram -
https://www.instagram.com/invisible2invincible
Trans Girl Picnic Chicago - Monthly outdoor hangout for transgender women
Links:
Instagram -
https://www.instagram.com/tgirlpicnic
Bluesky -
https://bsky.app/profile/tgirlpicnic.bsky.social
The Artistic Alphabet Mafia - A queer arts focused meeting group.
Links:
Eventbrite - https://www.eventbrite.com/o/the-artistic-alphabet-mafia-63489707583
Instagram -
https://instagram.com/theartisticalphabetmafia
Rowan Tree Counseling - Hosts pay-what-you-can queer craft nights
Link:
https://www.rowantreechicago.com/events
Pr!deArts - A not-for-profit organization that exhibits, promotes, and champions LGBTQ artists through all media and art forms. They curate art that celebrates the global queer community and provide diverse artists the opportunity to explore and address issues faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies. This includes live events at Pr!deArts Center in Chicago, and an online and virtual platform accessible throughout the globe.
Link:
About Face Theatre - A national leader in producing theatre by queer artists to tell queer stories. Through bold theatre and arts-based educational programs, their work celebrates the persistence and joy of queer identities while shining a spotlight on the social inequalities impacting LGBTQIA+ people.
Links:
Home -
Events -
https://aboutfacetheatre.com/events/
Gender Fucked Productions - A trans, queer, and enby event production company that offers meetups, dance parties, a trans cabaret, and trans open mic nights.
Links:
Linktree -
https://linktr.ee/genderfucked
Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles - A family of performance groups for friends and members of the LGBTQ community, including four major ensembles – Jazz Orchestra, Marching Band, Symphonic Band, and Pops Ensemble – plus over a dozen chamber ensembles. Through an annual series of performances and special events, Lakeside Pride offers adult musicians of all ethnicities, gender identities, and sexual orientations the opportunity to express themselves through music.
Links:
Home -
Ensembles -
Events -
Queer Karaoke Chi - Queereoke in Chicago. Provides affirming community spaces for queer, trans, gender-nonconforming and LGBTQIA+ people.
Link:
https://instagram.com/queerkaraokechi
Queer Book Club - A reading group that looks at literature through a queer lens, hosted monthly at Unabridged Bookstore. Alternating between the “classics” of gay fiction and contemporary, historically underrepresented voices, they read to explore queer experiences, literary genres, and eras. For questions about this book club, email Matt at matt@unabridgedbookstore.com.
Chicago Queer Gaming Society - For LGBTQ people who enjoy playing board games. They have board game meetups every other Saturday at the Dice Dojo on Broadway and operate a thriving Discord server.
Links:
Dice Dojo Events -
https://www.chicagolandgames.com/events
Discord -
Queer Nerd Meetup - Join Goblin Market for a chill evening of geeky discussions, casual board games, and new friends. Happens once a month.
Link:
Queer Quilting - An ongoing workshop series for quilt-curious queers.
What to know:
Links:
Instagram -
https://instagram.com/queer.quilting.chi
Sign Up - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeKCat6g9f0Ocb53aGStO9qlZ77vRRJVD507F0u45bFs8R2ug/viewform
Quilt Church Chicago - Queer quilters project aimed at learning and practicing hand quilting in community
Link:
https://www.instagram.com/quiltchurch_chicago
Out in Nature - Community building and outdoor meetings for LGBTQIA+ people, by LGBTQIA+ people.
Link:
https://outinnaturechi.wordpress.com/link-in-bio/
Queer Chicago Outdoor Club - Organizes group hikes and other outdoor activities for the Chicago queer community
Links:
Campsite -
https://campsite.bio/queerchicagooutdoor
Instagram -
https://instagram.com/queerchicagooutdoor
Queer Contra Chicago - Holds monthly dances, usually on the third Saturday of each month, at Second Unitarian Church in Lakeview.
Link:
https://m.facebook.com/QueerContraChicago/
Chi-Town Squares: Chicago’s LGBTQ+ Square Dance Club - Chicago’s LGBTQ+ square dance club
Link:
https://www.chitownsquares.org/
Second City Country Dance Association - Chicago's LGBTQ+ country/western dance community
Link:
The Transmasculine Alliance Sports Club - A Black and trans-led sports club where transmasculine people and allies can participate in a variety of sports, exercises, and wellness activities. They also have a Discord server.
Link:
Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association - The largest not-for-profit LGBTQ+ sports organization in the Midwest. They offer recreational and competitive level play in a variety of athletic leagues throughout the year. The league is open to all people who wish to play, regardless of sexual orientation or gender.
What to know:
Link:
Queer Soccer Club Chi - A weekly soccer meetup for queer, trans, and gender-expansive folks.
Link:
https://linktr.ee/queersoccerclubchi
Swish - Chicago’s first queer/trans basketball meet-up for the casual player. This group centers BIPOC folks.
Link:
https://instagram.com/queerbasketballclub
WNBGay Chicago - Casual, joyful, queer, trans, gender-nonconforming basketball pickups. Fridays 6 pm at Foster Beach Courts.
Links:
Linktree -
https://linktr.ee/wnbgaychicago
Instagram -
https://www.instagram.com/wnbgaychicago
Femmes and Thems - A safe space for women, femme, trans, and nonbinary Chicagoans to ride bikes together. No-drop social rides every 1st Saturday of the month. Welcomes bikes of all kinds, scooters, and kids and pets along for the ride. They also encourage bringing speakers to play music.
Link:
https://instagram.com/femnthembikechi
Out There Run & Walk Club - Queer and trans led run and walk club. Meets every Wednesday at The Moonlighter at 6:30 pm. All people and paces welcome.
Link:
https://www.instagram.com/outtherechi
Frontrunners Chicago - An LGBTQ+ running and walking club. The club provides a welcoming environment for everyone regardless of where they are on their running or walking journey. Through their weekly fun runs/walks, annual circuit of focus races, training programs, volunteer efforts, and social events, Frontrunners Chicago seeks to welcome, empower, encourage, and support everyone with an interest in staying healthy and fit in a positive and friendly environment.
Link:
http://frontrunnerschicago.com/
Chicago Rowing Union - The Midwest’s one and only LGBTQ+ rowing organization. Their diverse membership includes people from varied backgrounds, ages, and experience levels. Whether you are a seasoned rower or new to the sport, this group will welcome you. Allies are also welcome.
Links:
Home -
https://www.chicagorowingunion.org/
Programs -
https://www.chicagorowingunion.org/programs
Queer Kickboxing Club - Queer, trans, and non-binary centered kickboxing and MMA sessions
Link:
Transgender Action Self-Defense Collective - Free self-defense classes for the trans community
Link:
https://www.instagram.com/tascchicago
Queers on the Rocks - Community of queer, trans, gender non-conforming, and non-binary rock climbers in the Chicago area.
Link:
What about Meetup groups?
Meetup is a great place to meet other LGBTQ folks in the Chicago area. You can use the Meetup app or website to find social groups and events that align with your interests.
Queer/LGBTQIA+ Ladies and Non-Binaries of Chi 20s-40s - Social group for women and non-binary people in their 20s through 40s to get together. Past events have included: tea parties, barbecues, trivia, karaoke, seeing a show, game nights, and more.
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/4Xh7f/MQDS1/d
Chicago North Shore LGBT Meetup - Monthly brunch for LGBT people living or working in the North Shore area.
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/2x3TB/MQDS1/d
OPALGA+ Social Group - One of the largest LGBTQIA membership organizations in Illinois. Members come from diverse backgrounds and hold diverse identities, but they all come from the near-west suburbs. You can find social activities, community volunteer efforts, and opportunities to participate in human rights forums, rallies, and parades here.
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/4j4QJ/MQDS1/d
The Awkward Queer People of Color Meetup Group - For queer women and non-binary people of color who find traditional queer spaces difficult to navigate and would like to find each other. The group focuses on small-group activities to help foster conversation and create lasting friendships. Awkwardness is always understood here.
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/2BMZ7/MQDS1/d
LGBTQ Middle Easterners & The People That Love & Support US - A support group for LGBTQ people from the Middle East or any Muslim country.
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/3gMq1/MQDS1/d
LGBT Food, Fun, Travel, & Social Group - For LGBT people and allies who want to meet new people and have fun experiences.
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/3vDvG/MQDS1/d
Queer Sober Social - Hosts virtual and in-person events for sober or sober-curious people (or anyone who would just like to hang out in a substance-free environment and meet some other LGBTQ folks).
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/4wQVS/MQDS1/d
Scene-Free LGBT Chicago - Provide opportunities to explore social networking outside of bars. The main purpose of the group is to bring people together and have fun.
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/d04f/MQDS1/d
Chicago LGBTQ+ Diversity Book Club - A group of enthusiastic readers of different identities, ages, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds. They read a wide spectrum of books that explore the vast human experience and enjoy discussing books and learning from them and each other. They meet each month to chat about books and then get dinner and drinks at Wilde Bar.
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/2Cs1V/MQDS1/d
Chicago LGBTQ Book Club Meetup - Meets every other Wednesday to discuss a book. Wine may be served.
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/2xm8s/MQDS1/d
Windy City Cycling Club - An LGBTQA+ cycling organization that is open to all and encourages camaraderie through biking and social events. They offer weekly club rides, unique routes exploring interesting parts of the city, multi-day trips around favorite cycling destinations, and group participation in other organized cycling events. This Meetup helps introduce non-members to the club, but the club also offers a membership option with specific benefits and events. You can read more about that here: https://wccc.clubexpress.com/
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/2xbmT/MQDS1/d
LGBT Widows and Widowers Support Group Meetup - For those who have lost a partner, whether recently or long ago. These gatherings offer a supportive space to openly discuss the challenges you're facing and share your experiences with others who understand what you're going through.
Link:
https://meetu.ps/c/2JTRX/MQDS1/d
Where can I find queer and trans events?
Here Queer Chicago - A centralized space for LGBTQ+ events and support. Check their stories for events.
Link:
https://instagram.com/herequeerchicago
What about the kink scene?
Chicago Leather Dyke Picnic - Has regular meetups for queer women and trans folks interested in kink
Link:
www.instagram.com/chicagoleatherdykepicnic
You can also try asking around at your local dungeon, sex shop, or munch for more information on ways to meet other queer people interested in kink, or consider finding a mentor for more in-depth guidance.
What are some other queer-affirming community spaces in Chicago?
Eli Tea Bar - Located in Andersonville, Eli Tea Bar is a specialty tea shop and sober bar with late-ish hours. They offer tea lattes, kombucha, bubble tea, and over 100 loose leaf teas. You can sit at the bar or in the back room, where LGBT events are often held. Check their flyer board near the back for more information about upcoming queer events.
Link:
https://www.eliteabar.com/pages/chicago
Unabridged Bookstore - A bookstore with an extensive collection of LGBT books, including dedicated sections for gay erotica, lesbian fiction, bisexual fiction, LGBT young adult books, and transgender fiction. They also host a queer book club.
Link:
https://www.unabridgedbookstore.com/store-information
Women and Children First - Just down the street from Eli Tea Bar, this feminist bookstore celebrates and amplifies underrepresented voices, including LGBT voices. They also have a Safer Space policy that explicitly includes transgender people.
Links:
Mission & History - https://www.womenandchildrenfirst.com/wcf-history-and-purpose
Safer Space Policy -
https://www.womenandchildrenfirst.com/saferspacespolicy
Pleasure Chest - A sex positive adult store dedicated to supporting their community’s sexual growth and exploration by pioneering a sex positive culture, with an emphasis on education, enjoyment, and inclusivity. They sell an array of LGBT items and gender affirmation products.
Link:
https://thepleasurechest.com/about-us
Early to Bed - A feminist sex shop committed to helping people of all genders and orientations explore their sexuality to the fullest. The shop has trans-affirming artwork and literature, trans buttons and pins, and trans-friendly toys, as well as an entire section of gender gear.
Links:
About -
https://www.early2bed.com/service/about/
Gender Gear -
https://www.early2bed.com/gender-gear/
Faith
Where can I find local LGBT-friendly faith groups?
Chicago Coalition of Welcoming Churches - Offers a list of more than 80 ministries and churches in the Chicago metropolitan area which welcome and affirm people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Link:
http://chicagowelcomingchurches.org/partners.php
Unitarian Universalist Churches - These congregations are very accepting of LGBTQ people, value social justice, and welcome people with different beliefs. The church is not Christian, but people of all faith traditions, including Christians, are welcome.
Links:
About -
Chicago Locations -
https://uuchicagoarea.org/uu-congregations/
Lighthouse Church - A predominantly Black LGBTQ+ affirming church in the United Church of Christ (UCC) denomination that welcomes all people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, or class.
Links:
Home -
https://www.lighthousechicago.org/
Welcome to Lighthouse Church of Chicago - https://www.lighthousechicago.org/greeting
Contact -
https://www.lighthousechicago.org/contact
People’s Church of Chicago - A welcoming community of Christian, Unitarian Universalist, and other seekers who care deeply about justice, extravagant hospitality, and living their faith grounded in progressive values and Christian teachings. They are a multiracial congregation with members from all walks of life. They embrace diversity and freedom and explicitly welcome LGBT people in their congregation or leadership.
Links:
Home -
https://www.peopleschurchchicago.org/wordpress/
About Us -
https://www.peopleschurchchicago.org/wordpress/?page_id=554
Social Justice -
https://www.peopleschurchchicago.org/wordpress/?page_id=12
Contact Us -
https://www.peopleschurchchicago.org/wordpress/?page_id=861
AGLO Chicago - A welcoming Roman Catholic ministry for Chicago’s LGBT community.
Links:
Home -
About Us -
https://www.aglochicago.org/about-us
Contact -
https://www.aglochicago.org/contact-us
Or Chadash Community at Temple Sholom - Temple Sholom’s community group built to support and embrace the ever-growing community of LGBTQ+ Reform Jews in Chicagoland. Or Chadash creates a space for the LGBTQ+ community of both Temple Sholom and the greater Chicagoland area to worship, learn, and socialize. It is an inclusive, intergenerational space where all people can find their chavurah and develop bonds of friendship. They offer:
Links:
Who We Are: A Note from Our Senior Rabbi - https://www.sholomchicago.org/a-message-from-rabbi-conover.html
Or Chadash: LGBTQ+ Members & Allies - https://www.sholomchicago.org/or-chadash
Inclusion Matters -
https://www.sholomchicago.org/inclusion
Contact -
https://www.sholomchicago.org/contact-us
Where can I find national and international LGBT-friendly faith groups?
Affirming and Welcoming Worldwide Church Directory - A website dedicated to ministering to the LGBTQ+ Christian community and friends of the community. They feature the largest welcoming and affirming church directory in the world.
Link:
Transmission Ministry Collective - An online community dedicated to the spiritual care, faith formation, and leadership potential of transgender and gender-expansive Christians.
Link:
https://transmissionministry.com/
HRC: Faith Resources -
https://www.hrc.org/resources/faith-resources
Note: Includes Buddhist, Catholic/Orthodox Christian, Jewish, Muslim, multi-faith, Protestant, and other faith groups
Strong Family Alliance: Faith-based Organizations - https://www.strongfamilyalliance.org/hopeful-voices/faith-based-organizations/
Note: Includes Baptist, Buddhist, Catholic, Christian (Disciples of Christ), Christian Scientist, Church of the Nazarene, Community of Christ, Ecumenical, Episcopal Church, Evangelical, Hindu, Jewish, Lutheran, Mennonite, Methodist, Metropolitan Community Churches, Mormon, Muslim, non-denominational Christian, Orthodox Christian, Pentecostal, Presbyterian, Reformed Church in America, Quaker, Seventh-Day Adventist, Unitarian Universalist, United Church of Christ, and Unity groups
Muslim Alliance for Sexual and Gender Diversity (MASGD) Resource Guide: Orgs in the US -
https://www.themasgd.org/orgs-united-states
Where can I find faith resources for transgender folks and their loved ones?
Coming Home: To Faith, To Spirit, To Self (Interfaith) - https://www.hrc.org/resources/coming-home-to-faith-to-spirit-to-self
Note: Includes guides for Catholic, Evangelical, Jewish, Mormon, and Muslim folks
Affirming Resources for Queer Youth of Faith (Interfaith) - https://www.belovedarise.org/resourcesforyout
Note: Includes resources for Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, and Muslim folks
The Black Trans Prayer Book (Interfaith) -
https://theblacktransprayerbook.org/
What Does the Bible Say About Transgender People? (Christian) - https://www.hrc.org/resources/what-does-the-bible-say-about-transgender-people
Transgender & Christian -
https://www.queertheology.com/transgender/
Resources for Trans and Gender Expansive People (Christian) - https://transmissionministry.com/resources/trans-resources/
Family Resources (Christian) -
https://www.qchristian.org/resources/family
JQ Helpline (Jewish) -
https://jqinternational.org/helpline/
JQ Helpline Community Resource Manual (Jewish) - https://jqinternational.org/resources/
Resources: Browse by Topic (Jewish) - https://www.keshetonline.org/resources-and-events/browse-by-topic
RMN's Resources Library (Methodist) -
https://rmnetwork.org/resources/
Stories and Resources (Mormon) -
https://affirmation.org/resources/
LGBTQI Resources (Muslim) -
https://www.mpvusa.org/lgbtqi-resources
Articles & Excerpts (Muslim) -
https://www.themasgd.org/articles-and-excerpts
Videos & Podcasts (Muslim) -
https://www.themasgd.org/videos-podcasts-blogs
Where can I find resources for faith workers to better understand and support transgender people?
Trans ACTION: A Transgender Curriculum for Churches and Religious Institutions -
https://openandaffirming.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/transaction_leader.pdf
Community Belonging Guides (for synagogues, day schools, summer camps, Hillels, and Jewish youth groups) - https://www.keshetonline.org/resources-and-events/community-inclusion-guides/
Family
Where can I find resources to support transgender families?
For transgender parents:
https://www.pregnanttogether.com/
Note: Support groups include Adoption, Pre-Conception, Expecting & New Parent, Grief and Loss, Single Parent by Choice, Non-Gestational Parent, Divorced and Separated Rainbow Families, Trans Parents, and Sober Parenting
For people with transgender parents:
For parents of transgender children:
Financial resources for adoption, assisted reproduction, and surrogacy:
https://coalitionforfamilybuilding.org/grants/
Legal resources for trans parents:
Affordable childcare:
Milk and diaper banks:
https://www.milkbankwgl.org/for-milk-recipients/
Where can I find resources about gender-neutral parenting?
Gender-Neutral Parenting: What It Is, Pros, & Cons - https://www.choosingtherapy.com/gender-neutral-parenting/
Gender Creative Parenting Resources -
https://www.kylmyers.com/resources-1
Raising Them: Our Adventure in Gender Creative Parenting by Kyl Myers - https://www.kylmyers.com/book
Where can I find resources about coming out?
The Coming Out Handbook - https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/guide/the-coming-out-handbook/
Coming Out: Living Authentically as Transgender or Non-binary - https://reports.hrc.org/coming-out-living-authentically-as-transgender-non-binary
Coming Out as Trans and/or Nonbinary - https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/gender-identity/transgender/coming-out-trans
Coming Out: Living Authentically as Black LGBTQ People - https://jeunesidentitescreatives.com/upload/ressources/files/Black-ComingOut-Resource-02122020.pdf
Coming Out: Living Authentically as LGBTQ Latinx Americans - https://assets2.hrc.org/files/assets/resources/HRC_Coming_Out_Latinx.pdf
Coming Out: Living Authentically as LGBTQ Asian and Pacific Islander Americans - https://assets2.hrc.org/files/assets/resources/HRC-Coming_Out-API-FINAL-web-2018.pdf
Where can I find supportive programs for trans youth?
Camp Indigo: Summer Day Camp for Trans Kids - https://www.thecampindigo.org/
Kyler’s Konnections: Mentoring Trans Youth -
https://transfamilysos.org/kk/
Where can I find resources to educate my family?
For parents and grandparents of transgender children:
https://www.genderspectrum.org/resources
https://bookshop.org/shop/TFSS
For partners of transgender people:
https://www.transhub.org.au/allies/partners
https://distinctionsupport.org/
How to be a trans ally:
https://www.transhub.org.au/allies
Where can I find support groups for family members of transgender folks?
PFLAG Chicago Metro - https://pflagillinois.org/chapters/#1536254283631-d63680a0-11fe
Distinction Support Group -
https://distinctionsupport.org/
Where can I find resources for child welfare professionals to better understand and support transgender parents and children?
Education
What are my rights as a trans student?
Illinois State Board of Education Non-Regulatory Guidance: Supporting Transgender, Nonbinary, and Gender Nonconforming Students - https://www.isbe.net/Documents/ISBE-Guidance-Supporting-Transgender-Nonbinary-Gender-Nonconforming-Students.pdf
LGBTQ Inclusive Curriculum Bill Approved by Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker - https://www.equalityillinois.us/%EF%BB%BFlgbtq-inclusive-curriculum-bill-approved-by-illinois-gov-jb-pritzker
Know Your Rights: Schools -
https://transequality.org/resources/know-your-rights-schools
High School Sports Policies by State -
https://www.transathlete.com/k-12
NCAA: Trangender Participation Policy - https://www.ncaa.org/sports/2022/1/27/transgender-participation-policy.aspx
How can I file an education discrimination claim?
Reporting Discrimination in Public Spaces - https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/reporting-discrimination-public-spaces
Where can I find resources for trans students?
Campus Pride Trans Policy Clearinghouse -
https://www.campuspride.org/tpc
Campus Pride Index -
https://www.campusprideindex.org/
Campus Pride Sports Index -
https://www.campusprideindex.org/sports
The Campus Pride Ultimate Queer College Guide -
https://www.campuspride.org/resources/the-campus-pride-ultimate-queer-college-guide/
Campus Pride: College Resources -
https://www.campuspride.org/resources/
LGBTQ+ Student Scholarship Database - https://www.hrc.org/resources/scholarships
Out For Undergrad -
https://www.outforundergrad.org/
Where can I find resources to help educators and school employees better understand and support transgender students?
Illinois Inclusive Curriculum Implementation Guidance - https://phimc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/ICACI_ImplementationGuidance.pdf
Schools in Transition: A Guide for Supporting Transgender Students in K-12 Schools - https://hrc-prod-requests.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/files/assets/resources/Schools-In-Transition.pdf
Creating Safe and Welcoming Schools -
Gender-Inclusive Biology -
https://genderinclusivebiology.squarespace.com/
The Teaching Transgender Toolkit -
http://www.teachingtransgender.org/
Transgender & Non-binary Affirming Resource Books for K-12 Educators - https://bookshop.org/lists/transgender-non-binary-affirming-resource-books-for-k-12-educators
Check the Box: Trans Checklist for Colleges & Universities - https://www.campuspride.org/resources/transgender-checklist-for-colleges-universities/
Suggested Best Practices for Supporting Trans Students - https://lgbtcampus.memberclicks.net/assets/consortium%20suggested%20trans%20policy%20recommendations-compressed.pdf
Recommendations for Supporting Trans and Queer Students of Color - https://lgbtcampus.memberclicks.net/assets/tqsoc%20support%202016.pdf
Employment
Who can help me find a job?
2-1-1 - Cook County residents can dial 211 any time to get connected to services they need, including employment support. They also have a website.
Link:
Chicago House - Supports individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS and the broader LGBTQ community with housing, health, and employment support.
Link:
https://www.cognitoforms.com/ChicagoHouse1/EmploymentServicesRequestForm
Center on Halsted - Offers career and job training for LGBT people and those living with HIV/AIDS, including:
Link:
https://www.centeronhalsted.org/education-employment
Trans Rally - Dedicated to empowering the Chicago transgender community economically through its Discord server, job board, resume reviews, and networking opportunities. While this is a membership based organization, the basic membership is $3 (one-time fee).
Link:
Trans Empowerment Project - Offers a monthly newsletter through their Trans Employment Project for job-seekers and employees. In it, you'll find events, job-seeker and career development tips, QTIPOC co-working sessions, job fairs, financial literacy tips, and more.
Link:
https://transempowerment.org/tep-projects/trans-employment-project/
What are my rights as a worker?
Gender Identity Protections in Chicago - https://dhr.illinois.gov/publications/guidance-re-gender-identity-protections.html
Rights of Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, and Transgender Persons
in Illinois -
https://www.isba.org/public/guide/rightsoflgbt
Know Your Rights: Employees - https://transequality.org/know-your-rights/employment-general
Know Your Rights: Federal Employees - https://transequality.org/resources/know-your-rights-federal-employees
How can I protect my rights in the workplace?
Labor Unions are Providing Necessary Layers of Protection for LGBTQ Workers - https://newsroom.ucla.edu/releases/labor-unions-protection-for-lgbtq-workers
What Unions Do -
https://aflcio.org/what-unions-do
How to Start a Union -
https://www.ufcw.org/start-a-union/
LGBTQ+ Bargaining Guidance Toolkit - https://www.nea.org/resource-library/bargaining-protect-lgbtq-rights
Note: This is intended for educators, but is helpful for workers in all fields.
How can I file a workplace discrimination claim?
Filing a Workplace Discrimination Claim with the IDHR - https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/filing-workplace-discrimination-claim-idhr
Where can I find resources for transgender workers and job-seekers?
Navigating Gender Identity and Expression During a Job Search - https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2019/06/24/advice-dealing-gender-identity-and-expression-job-interviews-opinion
Where do employers stand in the movement for LGBTQ equality? - https://www.hrc.org/resources/employers
How can I find an employer’s non-discrimination policy? - https://www.hrc.org/resources/how-can-i-find-an-employers-non-discrimination-policy
Coming Out at Work -
https://www.hrc.org/resources/coming-out-at-work
Transitioning in the Workplace: A Guide for Trans Employees - https://www.hrc.org/resources/transitioning-in-the-workplace-a-guide-for-trans-employees
OutPro’s Webinar Library -
https://www.outprofessionals.org/webinar-library/
Where can I find resources to help colleagues and employers better understand and support transgender people?
Tips for Working with Transgender Coworkers - https://transgenderlawcenter.org/tips-for-working-with-transgender-coworkers/
Trans Toolkit for Employers - https://www.thehrcfoundation.org/professional-resources/trans-toolkit-for-employers
Employee Benefits & Policies (best LGBTQ practices for employers) -
https://www.thehrcfoundation.org/professional-resources/employee-benefits-and-policies
Note: While this is aimed at healthcare organizations, it works well for any business or organization.
Out and Equal: Resource Library -
https://outandequal.org/global-hub/
Trans Empowerment Project Employer Mailing List - https://transempowerment.org/tep-projects/trans-employment-project/
Voting While Trans
What are my voting rights in Illinois?
ACLU’s Guide to Voting in Illinois While Trans, Non-binary, or Gender Non-conforming - https://www.aclu-il.org/en/aclus-guide-voting-illinois-while-trans-non-binary-or-gender-non-conforming-0
Who can help me if I have trouble voting while trans?
Election Protection - Offers voting information and resources, election protection hotlines in different languages, and text message and online chat options
Link:
How can I file a voting discrimination claim?
Filing of Complaints - https://www.elections.il.gov/abouttheboard/filingcomplaints.aspx
Traveling While Trans
Where can I find resources for trans travelers?
Know Your Rights: Airport Security - https://transequality.org/resources/know-your-rights-airport-security
LGBTQ+ Travel Guidance & Resources - https://www.globalsupport.harvard.edu/travel/advice/lgbtq-travel-guidance-resources
LGBTQ+ Safety Guide - https://www.iglta.org/plan-your-trip/travel-guides/lgbtq-safety-guide/
2025 Anti-Trans Legislative Risk Map - https://www.erininthemorning.com/p/anti-trans-national-legal-risk-assessment
Mapping Attacks on LGBTQ Rights in U.S. State Legislatures - https://www.aclu.org/legislative-attacks-on-lgbtq-rights
Maps of Anti-LGBT Laws by Country - https://internap.hrw.org/features/features/lgbt_laws/
Further Resources
Where can I find resources for transgender people with diverse identities?
For people of color:
For disabled people:
https://www.them.us/story/queer-trans-creators-disabilities
For older adults:
https://www.sageusa.org/what-we-do/sagecents/
https://www.sageusa.org/resource-category/caregiving/
https://www.amazon.com/Survive-This-Shore-Photographs-Nonconforming/dp/3868288546
Where can I find helpful websites for trans people?
Explore the websites listed above! Many of them have resources beyond the specific pages listed here. Additionally:
The List for Us - A Chicagoland based collection of resources for trans and gender-nonconforming folks and those who support them.
Links:
Website -
Where can I find helpful apps for trans people?
Transtracks - A transition tracker that can change into a transit scheduling app for those who need to hide it.
Link:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/transtracks/id1463254429
Trans Memo - A hormonal tracker that ensures you never miss hormone day.
Link:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=chrysalide.testomemo
Voice Tools - Real-time pitch, tone, and volume analyzer for voice therapy.
Link:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.DevExtras.VoiceTools