March is Women’s History Month—a time to celebrate the incredible contributions of women throughout history. But at The Gathering Place (TGP), we know that true progress means looking beyond the past and focusing on the present struggles women and gender-diverse people still face.

The reality is, gender equity isn’t one-size-fits-all. Intersectionality—a term coined by scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw—reminds us that our experiences are shaped by many overlapping factors like race, income, ability, sexual orientation, and gender identity. When we talk about gender equity, we must also talk about how these factors contribute to poverty and homelessness, especially for transgender and gender-diverse people.

The Harsh Reality: Gender, Homelessness, and Poverty

Women and gender-diverse individuals facing homelessness encounter challenges that many people never have to think about. Imagine trying to escape domestic violence but having nowhere safe to go. Or being a single mom unable to afford childcare, making it impossible to hold down a job. These are daily struggles for too many of our members at TGP.

For transgender individuals, the barriers are even steeper. Studies show that one in three transgender people experience homelessness at some point in their lives. Even when housing is available, one in four transgender individuals have been denied shelter simply because of their gender identity. And for transgender women of color, the numbers are even more alarming due to the added impact of racial discrimination.

Employment discrimination makes things worse. The unemployment rate for transgender people is three times higher than the national average—and for trans people of color, it’s four times higher. Without stable income, affording housing, food, and healthcare becomes nearly impossible. These statistics aren’t just numbers—they represent real people struggling to survive in a system that too often excludes them.

Transgender Day of Visibility: More Than Just Awareness

March 31 marks Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV), a day to celebrate and uplift trans and gender-diverse people. But visibility alone isn’t enough—we need action. Being seen is important, but being safe, housed, and supported is what truly matters.

Here in Denver, the connection between trans identity and homelessness is undeniable. Many shelters still don’t provide safe spaces for transgender people, leaving them to choose between facing violence in a shelter or sleeping on the streets. At TGP, we believe no one should ever have to make that choice. Our doors are open to everyone, no matter their gender identity. We offer food, hygiene services, medical care, and housing support in an affirming and trauma-informed space where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Cameron, one of our members, shared what finding TGP meant to her:

“Before I came to The Gathering Place, no one cared.”

She described the fear and isolation she felt, even when she saw other trans women expressing themselves:

“Everywhere I was scared. I’d seen trans girls having fun and being themselves and it should’ve been an inspiration, but I was jealous and angry of them. Because they had the courage and audacity to be themselves… The more I came here [TGP], the more I started to express myself.”

For Cameron, TGP wasn’t just a resource—it was a lifeline:

“I would’ve been dead a long time ago. TGP was a huge support, every aspect of my life.”

Stories like Cameron’s remind us why visibility must lead to action. Safe, affirming spaces save lives.

What Can We Do? Turning Awareness into Action

Recognizing these issues is the first step, but real change requires action. Here are some ways you can make a difference:

• Advocate for Policy Changes: Support laws that protect transgender individuals from discrimination in housing and employment.
• Support Inclusive Services: Donate to and volunteer with organizations that provide safe spaces for marginalized communities.
• Educate Yourself and Others: Listen to and uplift the voices of transgender people. Share their stories and advocate for their rights.
• Challenge Biases: Speak up against discrimination in your workplace, social circles, and community.

At The Gathering Place, we believe in a future where all women—cisgender and transgender alike—as well as nonbinary and gender-diverse individuals, can thrive. This Women’s History Month, let’s move beyond celebration and toward meaningful action. Let’s work together to make sure that visibility leads to real, lasting change.

Because when we uplift the most marginalized, we create a better world for everyone.