Queens, NY — Today, hundreds of Trans community members and allies filled the streets of Corona Plaza with powerful chants, large banners, and lively performances as they amplified the unique experiences of Translatina women in New York and called for the passage of legislation that would ensure protections for community members.
During the press conference and march, key issues were highlighted including calling for an end to employment discrimination, the passage of the Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act, which would decriminalize sex work and the dismantling of NYPD’s infamous VICE squad, who are known to violently harass sex workers.
Janitza Lara, member of Make the Road New York, shared, “I arrived from Nicaragua two years ago. While life as an immigrant has been difficult, as a trans person I have faced added layers of adversities such as, sexual discrimination, stigma, and threats against my security. Finding my current job was extremely difficult. On several occasions, I was interviewed by phone. When I met employers in person or sent a photo following my initial interview, they did not call me again, after saying they did not know I was a trans person. This happened to me, and it happens to thousands of trans people every day. Many of us have families to support. My mom has diabetes and I send her money for her medicine. A secure job helps me so that my family can live with dignity. That’s why we need better protections against employment discrimination, and a commitment to hire TGNCIQ+ (Trans, Gender Non Conforming, Intersex, Queer and plus) people in local businesses.”
Bianey Garcia, Organizer at Make the Road New York, said, “Sex work has become an alternative to earn a livelihood for many of our Trans community members as they face disproportionate rates of workplace discrimination and poverty. Added to this, while simply trying to earn a living, TGNCIQ+ people face constant harassment and violence from the police. The Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act would protect people in the community by decriminalizing sex work, allowing people to engage in sex trades without experiencing violent policing for doing their job. Sex workers, just like in any other industry, deserve rights and protections.”
For press inquiries, reach out to mediacontact@maketheroadny.org