Room to Be Me!

Transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) people face significant housing discrimination, making them one of the most disproportionately unhoused communities in the United States. Shelters are often the first resource for those experiencing homelessness; however, these facilities have not provided a safe environment for TGNC people. Many have encountered discrimination and violence within the New York City shelter system, both from staff and other residents.

Despite existing policies aimed at protecting TGNC individuals, shelter staff frequently fail to enforce these guidelines, leading to ongoing violations of their rights to safe and gender-affirming accommodations. It is crucial for TGNC individuals to be aware of their rights within shelters and the steps to take if those rights are infringed upon.

To address this issue, The Harvard Law School LGBTQ+ Advocacy Clinic, in collaboration with The Bronx Defenders’ LGBTQ Defense Project, The Center for Urban Pedagogy, and designer Marisa Hetzler, have developed "Room to Be Me." This guide equips TGNC individuals with essential information on how to secure gender-affirming shelter, the available shelter options, and their rights while using these facilities. The guide also outlines the process for transferring shelters if their current placement is unsafe and provides guidance on how to report any instances of mistreatment, discrimination, or harassment from staff or other residents.

Participants after the first community session where we learned more about their individual experiences living in a shelter and listened to feedback about the initial draft of Room To Be Me!

Participants after the second community session where we workshopped a close to final draft of Room To Be Me!