TEP is a federally recognized 501c3 non-profit organization whose mission is to move our community out of crisis by creating equitable systems of support centered around Disabled 2TIGE-BIPOC (2Spirit, Trans, Intersex, and Gender Expansive members of the community who are also Black, Indigenous, and or People of Color), to ensure that we all get to thrive.
A word from our founder
In 2016, conservatives and religious extremists showed us that anyone with a big enough eraser could erase decades of people’s blood, sweat, and tears in advancing equity. These attacks and acts of hate have continued to run rampant globally ever since. It’s exhausting. But that’s the point.
TEP was started as a response to the shared narratives of dysphoria, depression, and isolation that were being experienced by community members everywhere and works to serve as a reminder that we don’t need anyone else’s permission to exist!
Look, we’re not here to get caught in the trap of fighting with people who refuse to acknowledge that everyone deserves the most basic right to bodily autonomy. We’re working to build the equitable future that we all deserve. One where we all get to thrive!
Train. Mobilize. Transform
Since January 1st, 2025 over 1,000 anti-Trans bills have been introduced into legislation, attempting to strip away access to healthcare, housing, education, and safety for existing as our authentic selves.
However, we know behind every bill is a person.
-
A young trans girl who won’t eat or drink at school so that she doesn’t have to face harassment while trying to use the restroom.
-
A disabled Black trans man denied health care during a vulnerable health scare.
-
A Two-Spirit elder trying to keep a roof overhead after losing work.
Events
december, 2025
Read our Blog
Join the Global Movement: TEP’s Digital Communities Are Here for You! 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
Hey Changemakers and Community Champions! 🌟 We're buzzing with excitement at Trans Empowerment Project and you're the reason why! We are amping up our efforts and diving deep into the digital world to strengthen our global family. Say hello to a broader, more...
I Escaped Female Genital Mutilation
[Trigger warning: The story below addresses the very real violent experiences that our Trans siblings across Africa have been faced with. This story is emotionally intense and at times, graphic. We urge you to put any discomfort you have into action so that no one is...
Understanding the Anti-Homosexuality Act
Written by Lucretia Ssenyonojo On August 9, 2023, the Ugandan Constitutional Court upheld the Anti-Homosexuality Act, which criminalizes same-sex relationships and imposes harsh penalties, including life imprisonment. This decision has sparked widespread concern and...
Finding Gender Euphoria at a Clothing Swap
Despite the fact that clothing is one of the most abundant resources on our planet, especially in the United States, where we are high subscribers to fast fashion, it can be incredibly difficult to access gender-affirming clothing that is affordable for our community.
From the discomfort of trying to shop in what may be an unaffirming and potentially unsafe space, to not having the cash needed to get the affirming clothing we want/need, clothing is one resource that the 2TIGE community is always in need of.
Embracing All Shades of Womanhood: Getting “Louder With Love”
By: Heather Knoxville (she/they) In a world that too often echoes with division, Trans Empowerment Project (TEP) hopes to stand as a beacon of unity and love, especially through our transformative "Sisterhood Not Cisterhood" program. As we encourage folks to join our...
Here’s to a Restful Future
In a world that never seems to pause, the act of resting can sometimes feel like a luxury we're not afforded. Yet, for members of the 2 Spirit, Trans, Intersex, and Gender Expansive (2TIGE) community, taking time to rest is not an indulgence—it's a crucial...
Proud Partners of:
