The State of Black Trans Women: Understanding the Reality - Part 1

How much of what we believe about transgender women comes from their lived experiences, and how much is shaped by what we've been told? From public misconceptions to changing policies, the conversation surrounding transgender women often overlooks the people directly affected.

In Part One of The State of Black Trans Women, celebrity publicist, television producer, and advocate Chanel Hudson-O'Connor joins us to discuss family, acceptance, personal safety, and the realities of navigating a world where identity can influence how someone is treated. Chanel also opens up about losing someone close to her and how that loss changed the way she thinks about her own safety.

Additional Resources & Support These resources offer information and support related to transgender identity, mental health, discrimination, legal rights, and personal safety. Some provide confidential crisis or peer support, while others offer research and educational resources.

The Trevor Project Free, confidential crisis support for LGBTQ+ young people, available 24/7. Call: 866-488-7386 Text: START to 678678 Trans Lifeline Confidential peer support for transgender and questioning people.

U.S. Hotline: 877-565-8860 Canada Hotline: 877-330-6366 Hours: Monday–Friday, 1 PM–9 PM Eastern (subject to scheduled closures) Advocates for Trans Equality Information and resources related to transgender rights, legal protections, and identification documents.

General Inquiries: 202-642-4542 ID Documents Center: Williams Institute at UCLA Research on LGBTQ+ populations, public policy, and social issues. Email: williamsinstitute@law.ucla.edu 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Free, confidential crisis and emotional support available 24/7.

Call or text: 988 For more information and resources, visit See for privacy information.