Transgender violence myths are as persistent as they are harmful. Many people still believe that violence against transgender individuals is rare. Spoiler alert: it’s not. A staggering 86.2 victimizations per 1,000 transgender people were reported in 2017-2018. That’s over four times the rate for cisgender folks. And it didn’t stop there; the rates continued to be alarmingly high through 2020.
Transgender men faced a victimization rate of 107.5 per 1,000. Transgender women weren’t far behind at 86.1. Meanwhile, cisgender women and men logged rates of just 23.7 and 19.8, respectively. Victimization rates for transgender individuals demonstrate their heightened vulnerability.
Transgender men experience a staggering victimization rate of 107.5 per 1,000, while transgender women face 86.1—far exceeding cisgender rates.
It’s a tough reality. Nearly half of these violent incidents never make it to the police reports. Why? Because there are barriers—like confusing definitions and binary databases—that get in the way of accurate reporting. Transgender individuals report violence to the police at the same rates as cisgender people, so it’s not a lack of willingness. It’s a system that’s broken.
When looking at the types of violence, the numbers get even grimmer. Many transgender individuals face rape, sexual assault, and domestic violence. In fact, domestic violence against bisexual individuals is eight times higher than for straight folks. Violent victimization affects the mental health of many in the transgender community, leading to increased risks of suicidal thoughts and attempts.
Verbal harassment? Almost half of transgender people reported being verbally harassed in the past year. That’s just unacceptable.
Now, if you think it can’t get worse, think again. Homicides of transgender and nonbinary individuals nearly doubled between 2017 and 2021. Gun violence plays a significant role, with 73% of victims killed by firearms.
And let’s talk demographics. Black transgender folks make up only 13% of the population but account for a whopping 75% of homicide victims.
