Daniel Trujillo’s family has faced challenges in Arizona due to anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and rhetoric, with his mother, Lizette Trujillo, actively fighting against these laws by testifying at the state Capitol each legislative session. The family works to cultivate a safe and accepting community in their city, attending a progressive church and participating in various activities with other LGBTQ+ families. Despite living in a “blue bubble,” the Trujillos understand the threats that exist outside of their community, especially considering their intersecting identities as Mexican Americans and LGBTQ+ individuals.
As the November presidential election approaches, the Trujillos are aware of the high stakes and the looming threat of Project 2025, a conservative playbook for a potential second Trump presidency. This project equates being transgender with pornography and seeks to roll back protections for transgender students. The family is actively engaged in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and reproductive justice, recognizing the interconnectedness of these issues and the need for bodily autonomy. They are also involved in various campaigns and events aimed at raising awareness and celebrating intersectional identities.
Daniel’s story is one of nine featured in the ACLU’s “Freedom To Be” campaign, which highlights joy and intersectional identities among transgender youth. The Trujillos are also set to participate in the Gender Liberation Movement’s march and festival in Washington D.C., along with other advocates and allies. The movement aims to bridge the gap between trans rights and reproductive rights, emphasizing the importance of bodily autonomy and the impact of anti-trans laws and rhetoric on marginalized communities.
Organizers like Raquel Willis stress the importance of understanding the connections between struggles for reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, immigration policy, and other systemic issues. Trans activist Ash Orr shares his experience of obtaining abortion care as part of his gender-affirming journey, highlighting the intersection of these issues. Willis hopes that the Gender Liberation Movement can build on past protest movements and convey the beauty of living with intersecting identities, while advocating for the rights and autonomy of all individuals.
Through their activism and advocacy, the Trujillo family is working to create a safer and more inclusive world for transgender youth. Lizette Trujillo’s dedication to fighting anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and supporting trans youth in her community is driven by a commitment to ensuring that future generations can live free from fear and discrimination. The family’s involvement in various events, campaigns, and movements reflects their belief in the power of community and solidarity in the struggle for equality.
