A4TE Condemns Trump DOJ Attack on Southern Poverty Law Center

[Washington, DC] - Today, Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE) issued the following statement by CEO Andrea “Andy” Hong Marra in response to an announcement that the U.S. Department of Justice has indicted the Southern Poverty Law Center: 

“The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) has long been at the forefront of efforts to combat extremism, defend civil rights, and ensure that all people can live free from discrimination and violence. Reports that the U.S. Department of Justice is targeting the SPLC for this work should concern anyone who believes in civil society and the integrity of our democratic institutions.

“Civil rights organizations exist to hold systems of power accountable and to protect communities that are too often marginalized, including transgender people. When the federal government appears to single out organizations like the SPLC because of their mission or advocacy, it sends a chilling message far beyond any one group.

“The Trump administration continues to embrace hate and attack civil rights, but we will not be silent. No administration should use the authority of the U.S. Department of Justice to intimidate or investigate organizations based on political disagreement. Such actions risk undermining fundamental freedoms, including speech, association, and the right to advocate for justice.

“A4TE remains in solidarity with the Southern Poverty Law Center and with all organizations working to advance civil rights. Efforts to silence or intimidate will not deter this work. At a time when equality and safety are under threat for so many marginalized communities, that work is more essential than ever.”

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About A4TE

Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE) is an organization that fights for the legal and political rights of transgender people in the United States. Introduced in July 2024 after the Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund and the National Center for Transgender Equality merged, A4TE is the largest trans-led advocacy organization in the U.S. and brings together experts, advocates, and communities to shift government and society toward an equitable future where trans people live joyful lives without barriers.