As Los Angeles prepares for new leadership, The TransLatin@ Coalition reflects on its conversations with Mayor-elect Nithya Raman and the continued work needed to advance housing, health care, economic opportunity, and equity for TGI Angelenos.
At The TransLatin@ Coalition, we believe that meaningful change begins with listening to the communities most impacted by the decisions made in our city.
During the election season, we had the opportunity to welcome many different local candidates – including Nithya Raman – to our center, where she spent time engaging with our community, learning more about the work we do, and hearing directly about the priorities, challenges, and aspirations of Transgender, Gender Expansive, and Intersex (TGI) people across Los Angeles.
Now, as Los Angeles prepares for a new chapter in city leadership following her mayoral victory, we are reflecting on the importance of these conversations and the responsibility that comes with public leadership.
For TGI communities, representation and visibility matter. But meaningful progress requires more than recognition. It requires leaders who are willing to listen, engage directly with our communities, and translate conversations into meaningful action.
The TransLatin@ Coalition has spent years advocating for policies and investments that address the realities facing TGI Angelenos, including housing insecurity, economic inequity, healthcare access, public safety, and barriers to essential services. Our work is rooted in the understanding that our communities deserve not only a seat at the table, but a meaningful role in shaping the policies and decisions that impact our lives. And 2026 was a year where, for the first time, the City of Los Angeles invested $500,000 in our TGI Wellness and Equity Initiative. While it is a historic win, the original investment the community called for was $2 million for 2 years. At a time when TGI people are facing strategic divestments and cruel legislation, we must continue to ensure our elected leaders understand what is at stake.
There is a deep importance of leaders taking the time to visit community-based organizations, understand the services being delivered on the ground, and hear directly from the people whose lives are impacted by local government decisions.
As Los Angeles moves forward, we look toward continued opportunities for engagement and collaboration with the elected Mayor. We remain committed to bringing TGI community priorities to the forefront and ensuring that the commitments made during election season translate into tangible improvements in the lives of our communities.
An election may mark a new chapter, but our commitment to change remains unwavering.
We invite our partners, allies, and community members to continue standing alongside us as we work toward a Los Angeles where TGI people can live with dignity, access opportunity, and thrive.
Our communities have always been part of building this vibrant city. And we must also be part of shaping its future.
The TransLatin@ Coalition is committed to continue building power, advancing equity, and creating a future where TGI communities thrive.
