NCTE, TLDEF Officially Merge to Form Advocates for Trans Equality

WASHINGTON (October 1, 2024) - Today, the National Center for Transgender Equality and the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund officially merged to form Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE). Announced in January 2024, this new organization aims to strengthen the legal and political rights of transgender people amidst rising anti-trans legislation in the United States.

“We’re an organization for, by and of the trans community,” said Andy Marra, CEO of Advocates for Trans Equality. “We believe in a future where trans people are no less than equal and we won’t stop fighting until that future is here.” 

A4TE will fight for transgender equality through several areas, including:

• Public policy, litigation and advocacy: Working at the local, state, and federal levels, A4TE will focus on policy issues including education, health and public accommodations--such as being able to safely use a public restroom or have identity documents with their authentic genders--while also monitoring and mobilizing around legislation impacting trans people through its State Action Center. It will also bring cases and file amicus briefs in state and federal courts across the country to protect the rights of trans people.
• Public education and research: A4TE will continue to build evidence and public education through robust research and storytelling campaigns, including its signature program the U.S. Trans Survey.
• Direct legal support: The organization will provide direct legal support and timely resources to trans people through hallmark programs such as the Name Change Project, ID Documents Center, and Trans Health Project. 
• Expanded political work: With the launch of a 501(c)4, A4TE will expand its political work to include voter education, candidate endorsements and the TRANSform the Vote initiative.

“The time for big, bold action in favor of trans rights is here,” explained Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, executive director of Advocates for Trans Equality. “Lawmakers are making decisions that put the lives of trans people and our families on the line. We are our best advocates and our voices have power. A4TE will ensure trans voices are not only heard but embraced in rooms where we've long been ignored.”

Advocates for Trans Equality will operate offices in New York City and Washington, D.C., with staff working across the United States.

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About Advocates for Trans Equality

Advocates for Trans Equality (A4TE) fights for the legal and political rights of transgender people in America. Founded in 2024, after the merger of the National Center for Transgender Equality and the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund, A4TE works tirelessly to create a society where transgender people are free from discrimination and able to live our lives with dignity and respect. www.transequality.org