Deaf, Trans, and Seeking Services? A Panel Discussion on Accessing Resources for Deaf and Trans Survivors

Deaf and trans people face many barriers to accessing services and healing support for mental health care or after violence. Panelists share their expertise on successes and challenges in getting services, with a focus on how building community can be an essential part of healing and wellbeing. Facilitated by Liam Esposito from Activating Change, this essential conversation also highlights what everyone can do to make the world safer for Deaf and trans survivors.

0:00 Welcome/intro to FORGE
2:23 Panelist introductions
6:58 Anti-trans legislation map
9:36 Reactions to anti-trans legislation
11:47 What kinds of services do you use?

17:16 Importance of having an interpreters with shared identities (Black, trans)
20:36 Impacts of DEI orgs being dismantled
23:22 Access to safe housing/services
25:38 Mental health services for Deaf individuals
26:47 Cultural responsiveness and belonging

38:12 White supremacy culture
42:01 Being trans in higher education
45:16 Having BIPOC interpreters
48:14 Black trans women at the heart of the movement
49:41 Tools for healing

1:01:26 What does liberation mean to you?
1:09:01 What do justice and healing mean to you?
1:21:14 What advice would you give other Deaf trans folks?

Recorded August 2, 2024.