The Saturday, April 5 demonstration was part of a national day of action entitled “Hands Off!” Shortly before the rally got underway, a community organizer was taken into custody by Grand Rapids police officers who had a warrant out for their arrest.

Over 1,000 events were planned en-masse across the country, with the Grand Rapids rally organized by Indivisible Greater Grand Rapids, which is part of a national organization that advocates progressive politics. Michigan demonstrations were organized in Holland, Big Rapids and Muskegon, among other cities. A Lansing rally also took place at the State Capitol.

The Grand Rapids gathering included speeches, a poetry reading and activists flyering for a variety of community groups. Protesters then took to the city’s sidewalks, chanting, “This is what democracy looks like.”

Before the event began, GRPD officers arrested Emerson Wolfe, the co-chair of Palestine Solidarity Grand Rapids (PSGR). According to Wolfe, they were apprehended for a warrant that was issued after an International Women’s Day march last month. Wolfe helped facilitate the demonstration and claimed the warrant was issued for failing to obey an officer’s order, a misdemeanor. 

According to a GRPD spokesperson, officers did not seek out Wolfe but placed them under arrest after they “approached a sergeant who was meeting with event organizers.”

Wolfe was held in custody at the Kent County Jail for a short period of time, but returned to the gathering following their release. They spoke to the crowd, commenting on their arrest.

“Instead of helping us (safely protest), the Grand Rapids Police Department decided to repress our movement and arrest me as a figurehead,” Wolfe said.

Wolfe encouraged community members to “fight back” by engaging in actions that support immigrants, unions, the transgender community and the Black power movement.

Protesters, including community member Savannah Harrington, also expressed upset over what they feel is a disenfranchisement of rights for transgender and immigrant populations. Harrington was glad to see people taking action in Grand Rapids and across the country, despite what she described as the Trump administration’s attempt to stifle dissent.

“The Trump administration has tried its darndest to incite fear in the general public, making them feel like they’re not allowed to have free speech or protest,” Harrington said. “The fact that people are standing up despite that is reflective of who we are as a society.”

Grand Valley State University student Dorian Fedewa took part in the protest. He has attended previous city demonstrations and feels community members are increasingly compelled to join rallies. 

Fedewa noted the “Hands Off” gathering and similar actions have the ability to foster solidarity in times that many deem “hopeless.”

“That feeling of solidarity helps give people hope and also helps show the leaders of Grand Rapids (and) the police department that we’re not going to put up with repression and oppression,” Fedewa said.

Community member Susie Krupp said she’s felt downhearted by the state of political affairs in the United States. Yet, she voiced her excitement about the nationwide demonstrations and is hoping for “dramatic” political change.

“I really hope and feel like this could be the tide that changes things,” Krupp said.

The Monday, March 31 event took place on Trans Day of Visibility, and was facilitated by the University’s resource center, the Grand Rapids Pride Center and the Grand Rapids Trans Foundation. Over 70 attendees listened to Coleman, a transgender internet personality known for his advocacy and educational content. 

“(Coleman) talked about what trans visibility means to him and also touched on being unapologetically yourself,” said D. Hollowell, the assistant director of the LGBT Resource Center. “(He also) let people know you don’t have to have an encyclopedic knowledge of your identity, nor the history you’re a part of.”

LGBT Resource Center Director DL McKinney said the event was “really loving” and created community.

“There’s this feeling of ‘how do we pull each other in and make sure, out of everything in this world, we got us,’” said McKinney. “Everything in my heart was smooth.”

According to GLAAD, an LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, Trans Day of Visibility is described as “a day to celebrate the lives and contributions of trans people, while also drawing attention to the disproportionate levels of poverty, discrimination and violence the community faces compared to cisgender people.” 

To Hollowell, trans visibility and the University’s celebration come down to encouraging and supporting authenticity.  

“In a lot of ways, (trans visibility celebrations are) kind of our Super Bowl,” said Hollowell. “Classes are not in session during June, which is Pride Month and so we really try to squeeze what we can into trans visibility (events),” said Hollowell.

Hollowell added the goal of the celebration was to provide assistance to the University’s trans and gender-diverse community.

“We just really want to encourage (those) part of the trans community, folks who are gender diverse (and) anyone to feel like they can be in their own authentic spaces regardless of where they walk into,” Hollowell said. “We (hope) people feel they are supported and (that) they matter.”

The LGBT Resource Center kicked off Trans Week of Visibility on Tuesday, March 25 with an assembly at the Cook Carillon Tower. Justine Lindsay, a professional dancer and first trans woman cheerleader in the NFL, spoke at the event. The annual Pride Prom also took place Friday, March 28.

The LGBT Resource Center continually attempts to provide extensive resources for campus community members and promote both culture and inclusivity. Hollowell pointed toward the University’s upcoming Lavender Graduation Wednesday, April 16, a celebration of LGBTQ+ and ally graduates.

As for community resources outside of Trans Week of Visibility, the Grand Rapids Trans Foundation provides academic scholarships for transgender students, name change support, legal document updates, gender-affirming items and a support group. For those looking to support the LGBTQ+ community, The Grand Rapids Pride Center has a plethora of opportunities to volunteer, donate, attend events, shop and join committees dedicated to inclusivity. 

The event, which was titled “Exposing the Trans-Agenda: A Talk With a Detransitioner,” was held at the Russel H. Kirkhof Center. The speaking event’s title and guest garnered outrage from many University students, especially those who identify as transgender. Several counter-demonstrations were held on campus, and attended by students and community members in order to show support for the transgender community.

The University’s TPUSA chapter claimed on Instagram that the event was not an attack on the transgender community, and that their actions were protected under the First Amendment. GVPD officers were present at the talk, as TPUSA requested security. Photographers, including Lanthorn staff, were barred from entering the event.

The talk outlined the views of both Cole and TPUSA, which are that transgender people pose a threat to femininity, the government and children. During the talk’s Q&A section, Cole expressed opposition to gender-affirming care for all transgender individuals, including adults, and described being transgender as a “choice.” Several students who were in attendance felt Cole’s evidence was primarily based on personal anecdotes, and not factual information. 

Cole has advocated for the passing of several laws that restrict youth gender-affirming care. Generally, for a child to receive gender-affirming services, they must have parental consent and undergo several psychological assessments to be diagnosed with gender dysphoria. Although regulations differ from state to state, most children have to be at least 15 years old to start hormone therapy, and at least 18 years old to undergo gender-affirming surgery. At the age of 13, Cole began her female-to-male transition but later regretted her decision after an LSD trip, during which she claims a female voice told her she was not a boy. Following that experience, Cole converted to Christianity and has since used her faith to oppose the transgender community, and to advocate against access to medical care.

“I think Cole’s story should be heard, but I don’t think that stories like that should be twisted and contorted to paint a bleak picture of what gender-affirming care is,” said GVSU student Ren Carlson. “In my humble opinion, the local chapter of Turning Point USA on campus is not treating me and the trans community with the dignity and respect that everyone deserves.”

Several students reported the TPUSA event to the Dean of Students Office through the University’s Campus Climate Concerns system, believing the event was offensive and harmful to the transgender community. In an Instagram statement, the Progressive Student Union at GVSU urged community members to submit reports in order to protest the speaking event. However, according to a University statement published by WZZM 13, free speech is protected at GVSU so long as it’s “lawful and non-disruptive.”

“As a public university, GVSU upholds the First Amendment rights to free speech and assembly without viewpoint-based restrictions,” said the statement. “GVSU will not restrict anyone’s ability to use their voice in a lawful and non-disruptive manner that is in compliance with the Grounds and Facility Use Policy and all other applicable university policies.”

Several other campus political organizations began posting on social media in opposition. The GVSU College Democrats released a statement, acknowledging that an individual’s choice to detransition is valid, but that personal choices should not prevent others from accessing medical care. According to the National Institute for Health, roughly 1-8% of individuals choose to detransition, either temporarily or permanently. The main reasons for detransitioning include parental or societal pressure, as well as discrimination or oppression.

Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) at GVSU gave an impromptu presentation titled “Exposing the Anti-Trans Agenda” during the same time as TPUSA’s event. SDS’s event centered on transition access and resources, and featured conversations with transgender students who discussed their experiences. 

“To go to their (TPUSA’s) events and debate with speakers like Chloe Cole, who is paid hundreds of thousands of dollars by far-right groups to advocate against trans healthcare, is to agree that their arguments are based on logic, which we know they aren’t,” said SDS Queer Activism Committee Chair and Financial Officer River Koehler.

A vigil in support of trans students was also held at the Cook Carillon Clock Tower that evening. The University’s Milton E. Ford LGBT Resource Center helped organize the event, and reserved the space for students to gather. GVPD officers were also lined up outside near the vigil.

According to the Williams Institute, transgender individuals are over four times more likely to be victims of violent crime compared to cisgender individuals. The vigil was held to honor those who have lost their lives to transphobic-related violence, such as Sam Nordquist, a 24-year-old transgender man who was tortured and killed in February.

“People are obligated, especially cisgender people, to stand up for trans people,” said GVSU student Jayce Carr. “I do it not only for my trans girlfriend and trans brother, but for the countless other trans people that have been subject to discrimination and prejudice.”

GVSU’s current policy grants more protections to those accused of sexual misconduct, minimizes LGBTQ+ protections and is in line with a federal ruling that deemed the requirement of identity-affirming behavior to be a violation of free speech.

During President Donald Trump’s first administration, former Secretary of Education and West Michigan native Betsy Devos made revisions to Title IX federal law that were seen as controversial. Devos expanded protections for students accused of sexual misconduct in efforts of “ensuring a fair grievance process.” The revisions minimized definitions of sexual misconduct and required cross-examination of the accuser for statements in a case to be considered. 

The University’s policies have continually aligned with each presidential administrations’ Title IX changes. Under former President Joe Biden, the University’s 2022 policy included “unwelcome conduct based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or pregnancy” within definitions of misconduct. Those specific definitions remain largely intact in the current policy but are now subject to change.

In December 2024, Biden’s Title IX policy expansion was blocked in 26 states, and was ultimately thrown out by a federal judge. Biden’s Final Rule was ultimately thrown out with the verdict that discrimination of sexual orientation didn’t fall under the jurisdiction of Title IX. Biden’s adjustments requiring correct pronoun usage by teachers in accordance with student orientation and preference was ruled to be a violation of the Constitution’s First Amendment. 

Alongside other universities across the county, GVSU has reverted back to these guidelines, vastly altering the procedure for how cases of sexual harassment, discrimination and misconduct are handled.

“These (the most recent updates) were required policy changes for compliance with federal regulations,” said GVSU Associate Vice President, Deputy Chief Inclusion & Equity officer and Title IX Coordinator Kathleen VanderVeen. “Cross-examination provides decision makers the opportunity to develop a live credibility analysis rather than a credibility analysis based solely on written statements.”

VanderVeen also claimed GVSU’s adjustments were made to ensure “equitable credibility analysis of evidence statements.”

The current SLT 9.1 policy, which is similar to the 2020 version, defines sexual harassment as “an employee of GVSU conditioning the provision of aid, benefit, or service of GVSU on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct.” The 2022 and 2024 versions of SLT 9.1 both significantly expanded the definition, and distinguished sexual misconduct from sexual harassment. Biden’s attempted Title IX reform sought to expand and restore protections for pregnant and transgender individuals, which had previously been minimized.

Specific aspects of the University’s policy change in accordance with federal regulations significantly affects protections for transgender students under Title IX. The current version of SLT 9.1 removed six paragraphs from section 17, “Inclusion related to Gender Identity/Expression.” The deleted paragraphs outlined gender inclusivity and identity affirmation, explicitly defining misgendering and deadnaming in campus context.

The 2024 version of the policy stated, “GVSU supports the full acceptance of those who are gender expansive,” while the current version shorted the six paragraphs to simply state, “Intentional misgendering, deadnaming, or mispronouning may be considered a violation of this policy.”

This policy change comes shortly after Trump signed executive orders targeting “gender ideology.” Trump has signed an executive order that federally acknowledges only two genders, and has attempted to ban transgender athletes from collegiate sports.

“I just hope that as we maneuver with what has to be changed, we figure out something quickly to make sure there’s a safeguard there,” said DL McKinney, the University’s LGBT Resource Center director. “Right now, taking out that language that was a safeguard, it’s (safeguards) changed.”

Faculty and staff have already previously voiced concerns regarding deadnaming and misgendering at the University. In a survey conducted by the GVSU LGBT Faculty and Staff Association (LGBT FSA), 80% of LGBT FSA members responded saying they desired a more inclusive climate at the University. McKinney said the prevalence of the issue “should be something we don’t ignore.”

McKinney said the LGBT Resource Center is working with GVSU administrators to maintain protections under this new policy.

“We (the LGBT Resource Center) have been both scrambling and trying to be strategic about how we use the system that’s in front of us to make sure that everyone is protected– students, staff and faculty,” McKinney said.

McKinney said that support provided by the LGBT Resource Center will not change, regardless of changes in administration or policy. 

“There’s nothing that we as an office are changing when we talk about our values,” McKinney said. “We aren’t scared. We want to make sure that people know this (the center) is a space for a reason.”

One of three panels in the 8-by-10 foot installation depicts a gun pointing toward Our Lady of Guadalupe, a Catholic apparition of the Virgin Mary. According to the GVSU Art Gallery, the piece’s supposed intention is “to raise awareness around issues such as gender-based violence, mental health, gun control and homophobia,” especially in Mexico.

Christopher Knape, the assistant vice president of University Communications, gave some insight into the University’s decision to purchase and display Beltran’s piece.

“Our museum staff have conversations on every piece of artwork that comes into Grand Valley’s collection,” Knape said. “There is a collections committee that reviews every piece that comes into the collection, including student work.”

Jamie Thompson, a Michigan Republican House representative, took to social media to voice her concerns over the artwork’s display at GVSU.

“(I am) deeply concerned about the ‘Art’ that Grand Valley University felt so inclined to purchase and display,” Thompson posted on X. “Rep Luke Meerman, myself and other leaders will be addressing this insulting attack on Christianity.”

Though the piece was intended to call attention to issues of oppression and femicide in Mexico, the piece itself is coming under fire for its loose usage of religious iconography. 

Beltran, however, remains committed to the piece’s positive intentions.

“Ultimately, the purpose is to envision a future where the murals serve as symbols of hope and solidarity, guiding us towards a more just and compassionate society for generations to come,” Beltran said in a statement on the piece.

Still, some students at the University disagree with the effectiveness of Beltran’s method. Katie Eckenrode, a Catholic student at GVSU, pointed out the significance of Our Lady of Guadalupe to both Catholics and Christians alike, and said that she found the image offensive. Eckenrode believes the piece failed to meet its intended message.

“I can quite easily see how Catholic, Lutheran, Orthodox and other Christian brothers and sisters could find this (the artwork) very offensive,” Eckenrode said. “Our Lady of Guadalupe is honored and venerated by millions of Christians in Mexico, the Philippines, the U.S. and dozens of other countries. Any significant religious figure with a gun or a red ‘x’ over the head would be seen as offensive by any religion, even if created by someone within that faith.”

Though Eckenrode believes the University has a right to hang what it wants, she believes this move was in bad taste.

“Artwork on the walls should not represent gunning down, defiling or crossing out a religious figure and claiming it symbolizes social issues,” Eckenrode said. “It is not the same as any other opinion piece representing politicians or crises when a role model of over 2 billion Christians is defiled, and illustrates a threat toward Christians on campus.”

Eckenrode feels GVSU purchased the artwork in an attempt to promote conversation.

“Many diverse paintings in other buildings represent equality, sexuality and identity, none of which have been a direct depiction of violating a sacred icon,” Eckenrode said. “This painting poorly represents serious issues in Mexico when it comes off as sacrilegious and (as) a threat toward anyone on campus who venerates the Mother of God.”

Eckenrode believes the University can and should raise awareness about gender-based violence and other forms of oppression, but believes it can be done without creating imagery that many Christians find offensive.

“There are better ways for the University to represent student artwork than choosing pieces that decimate the mother of our faith in three different depictions,” Eckenrode said.

On the other side of the issue, at least one student found the piece to be effective in conveying its message. Education major Nikolas Tompkins said that he believes critical thinking is a necessary key in deciphering the painting. As an institution, Tompkins believes Christianity has oppressed certain individuals throughout history, and that the painting’s use of religious imagery makes sense.

“I do think that if Christian students find this work offensive, they should take the time to understand why the artwork was made in the first place,” Tompkins said. “American Christians specifically have a long history of suppressing and attacking various groups in the name of the Lord and the Bible, such as those who identify as LGBTQ+.”

To this end, Tompkins believes the painting accomplished its task. To him, it’s a valid claim to use Christian symbols to represent oppression.

“The painting’s original message is to give a spotlight toward these (identities) that have been suppressed and attacked by Christian groups, and those who claim to be doing those actions in the name of Christianity,” Tompkins said. “I think many Christians who find the painting offensive due to its ‘anti-Christianity’ symbolism choose to ignore a lot of the history surrounding suppression by the church, especially in America.”

Since the University has a history of purchasing and displaying a vast variety of paintings, Tompkins isn’t quite sure why this one is facing opposition for its spot in the melting pot.

“GVSU is a university that has shown it allows the opinions of many different groups to be displayed on campus,” Tompkins said. “You can search through the campus art database and see there are multiple religious paintings hung up around campus.”

Still, the public outcry surrounding the piece has proved to be enough to warrant its taking down. Knape admitted the University has never removed artwork during his tenure. Seeking to avoid similar issues in the future, the University has decided to turn to students to help make decisions on which pieces of art are displayed on campus.

“A student art advisory committee is being formed to provide feedback on the current art in the Kirkhof Center and to provide feedback on new artwork being considered for display in the Kirkhof Center,” Knape said.

However, the painting isn’t going away permanently. The University seeks to place it somewhere where it can exist in a better context and spread its message more effectively. To that end, the University released the following message to help explain its actions in displaying the piece:

“The concerns expressed about a piece of art in GVSU’s Kirkhof Center, “Pétalos De Cambio” (Petals of Change), revolve around the nature, location, and context of the piece. We understand that artistic content is often viewed differently by individuals, and therefore are compelled to provide the context necessary to accurately reflect the artist’s stated intent of the piece. We must also place art where we can respectfully care for the work, the artist and the broader viewing community.

The piece was not in a location to allow those things to happen. The GVSU Art Museum will be relocating the piece to a space where it can be presented with greater context, allowing for deeper discussion and understanding while enhancing safety and respecting all voices that might find themselves in that space.

Our approach to our living gallery and broad and diverse collection hanging throughout every building on campus is rooted in our belief that art is an important aspect of education. Grand Valley State University affirms our commitment to free expression and our university values while we also acknowledge that some pieces, like this one, can cause discomfort. It is our goal to display art in a way that productively allows for the pursuit of knowledge, empathy, and social understanding and we will continue to work to create processes that help us achieve that goal.”

Data from the American Library Association‘s Office for Intellectual Freedom shows 414 attempts to censor library materials and services were tracked in 2024 between Jan. 1 and Aug. 31. Of those cases, 1,128 unique titles were challenged. 2023 statistics were more staggering, with bans affecting more than 4,000 unique titles. Many banned book authors write about their experiences coming from marginalized communities. People of color and LGBTQIA+ stories made up 47% of bans during the 2023-2024 school year.

Surprisingly enough, the top five most banned titles are quite mainstream, and many even have film or television adaptations. Titles such as “Looking for Alaska,” “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” and “Thirteen Reasons Why” were some of the most frequently banned books throughout the 2023-2024 school year. “Gender Queer: A Memoir” by Maia Kobabe, “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson and “This Book is Gay” by Juno Dawson are also among the most banned at public libraries and community recreation centers. The latter three titles exclusively highlight LGBTQIA+ voices.

Since 1982, “Banned Books Week” has been celebrated by thousands of libraries and academic buildings across the country. Banned Books Week is celebrated at GVSU, with associated novels featured in library displays. According to Brody French, a student employee at the University’s library, Banned Books Week is designed to bring awareness to the content, erasure and liberation of banned media.

“We have banned books here in the library,” said French. “We do promote them, (and) we do a banned book display.”

French said the display is helpful in getting students’ attention about literary censorship.

”I don’t think people really know about it unless there is a display because I can’t say I’ve had many people come up to me (saying), ‘Where (are) your banned books at?’’ French added.

Jordyn Horton, the night coordinator of student employment at GVSU’s library, said the banned book display features several titles.

“I come up with a list of 15 to 20 books, and we’ll just create signage for it and send it out,” Horton said. “Usually it’s (the display) in the lobby so people can see it when they walk in.”

Horton said engagement from the GVSU community regarding banned books has increased.

“We’ve definitely incorporated more e-book (banned) titles into the display, especially because all students, staff (and) faculty have access to e-books and audio books,” Horton said. “It’s really nice that people have different ways they can engage with banned books”

Horton recommended PEN America and The American Library Association as two resources the library uses to find banned media. These sources can be used by anyone to locate current and accurate data regarding banned books in the United States.

LGBT FSA is an affinity group at the University that works to foster a safer and more inclusive environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender faculty and staff members. The group analyses policies and practices at GVSU, and promotes programs that support LGBTQIA+ workers. 

Their newsletter included results of a survey that was sent out to LGBT FSA members, which allowed faculty and staff to express their successes and challenges of existing on campus. 52 members of the LGBT FSA responded to the survey, 80% of which advocated for a more inclusive and equitable campus climate. The results show a strong desire for more inclusivity among staff toward LGBTQIA+ individuals. Significant grievances expressed in the survey regarded faculty being “deadnamed,” using someone’s birth name rather than their preferred name, and the misuse or disregard of pronouns.

Common responses disclose that faculty members are continuously deadnamed and misgendered by colleagues, or have witnessed students receiving similar treatment from their professors. Alongside discrimination based on sexuality and gender, “managerial racism” and other forms of racial discrimination were also mentioned in some survey responses. Although the responses broadly advocated for more inclusivity, the majority emphasized the mistreatment of faculty and staff who identify as transgender or nonbinary.

“I’d love to see the entire campus community more comfortable and accurate with pronouns,” said one anonymous survey respondent. “I have several colleagues who use they/them, and it’s frustrating to see how often folks misgender them.”

Kyle Felker, the steering committee chair for LGBT FSA, said the treatment of trans and nonbinary employees may be a result of the current political climate, the spread of misinformation and fear-mongering. 

“Looking at (the FSA survey results) in conjunction with a majority of the data we already had, I don’t think there were a lot of surprises,” Felker said. “I think it confirmed a lot of the things that we had already suspected.” 

The organization also advocates for accountability from SLT to prevent further discrimination based on sexuality or gender. In relation, an anonymous survey respondent noted a “lack of urgency for LGBTQ+ issues by SLT.”

“There are so many things that could be done, ranging from high-level changes to policy and administrative processes, education and training for faculty, staff and students (and) interventions at the unit or department levels,” said AJ Young, the communications coordinator for LGBT FSA. “The most important thing GVSU could do is to actively solicit feedback from the LGBTQIA+ community at (the University), and bring us into substantive roles in the decision-making process about what happens on campus.”

In August 2022, the Higher Education Data Sharing Consortium (HEDS) visited GVSU to gather data on the experiences of LGBTQIA+ faculty and staff. The data that HEDS collected exhibited a similar trend to LGBT FSA’s survey; those who identified as lesbian, gay and queer had better experiences on campus than those who identified as transgender or nonbinary.

D. Hollowell, the assistant director of the Milton E. Ford LGBT Resource Center, said they would love to see a look beyond the data into the infrastructural, cultural and managerial manifestations of intolerance.

“Michigan, as a state, has made some pretty incredible strides towards LGBTQIA+ legal protections and streamlined identity document updates,” Hollowell said. “I’m really counting on GVSU to match that pace, ensuring that employees don’t experience a labyrinth of prejudice, and instead are bolstered by robust support. I’m hoping some of the resources on campus, like the Title IX office, MyName, LGBT FSA and, of course, the LGBT Resource Center, can help make that possible.” 

Attendees decorated candles that they could place on an altar while local musician Darius Colquitt delivered a vocal performance. Afterward, speakers stepped forward to recite the names of the 48 transgender and gender non-conforming individuals that committed suicide or were killed in the United States since last year’s Trans Day of Remembrance.

This is the first year the total number has included suicide deaths, highlighting the tragic decision some transgender and gender non-conforming individuals have made in the face of threats to their autonomy, as well as physical violence against them.

“It doesn’t have to be someone physically harming somebody else,” said DL McKinney, the director of the LGBT Resource Center. “The torture that our community and our siblings go through when they’re just trying to live authentically as they are ends lives. People opt out of life because of that.”

Trans Day of Remembrance began in 1999 in honor of Rita Hester, an African American trans woman who was murdered in Boston in 1998. To this day, Black transgender women have been disproportionately affected by this epidemic of violence. A report from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation shows that in the last year, 75% of the reported cases of fatal violence against transgender and gender non-conforming individuals were people of color, and half of them were Black women. However, this statistic might actually be higher, as it is only reflective of formally reported cases. Cases often go unreported or misreported due to misgendering or discrimination that continues after the individual’s death.

“There’s so many lives that have been lost, but families are saying, ‘No, this person wasn’t trans. No, we’re going to deadname this person. (No), we’re going to make sure that no one knows their true identity,’” McKinney said. “We even have some families who may not even report (a death) as murder because they think their loved one deserved it.” 

Anti-trans violence continues to rise, perpetuated by the increasingly anti-trans climate seen in U.S. politics and culture. While the current political climate imposes an increased threat to the trans community, McKinney stressed that globally, the issue has always existed.

“Even before (the election), the risk of safety and autonomy to trans bodies has always been a fact,” McKinney said. “I mean, that has never changed. The names (of individuals that have died) that we read are going to be for the U.S., but worldwide, we’re talking about almost 400 lives lost (this year) just because someone is uncomfortable with somebody being themselves.” 

Speakers at the vigil emphasized that while it is a time of grieving, it is also time to uplift and empower those who have been lost, and to show strength as a community. Many attendees said they were extremely grateful for the event, and emphasized the importance of showing up as a united community against discrimination.

Lynn Formigoni, a volunteer at GRPC, said she has been witness to both good and bad moments in the trans community since she transitioned 10 years ago. Yet, Formigoni said she believes the transgender and gender non-conforming community is stronger than ever before.

“It means the world to me to see that this (the community formed at the vigil) happened, because I know our (trans) community is alive and thriving,” Formigoni said. “That’s what we really want to see, a community that can be self-sustaining, powerful and have a voice.” 

Another vigil attendee, GVSU alumni Robin Fox, was proud to see strong involvement in the event from the University and its community.

“As a GVSU alumni of 10 years, it’s really great to continue to see the LGBTQ inclusivity of our campus and events,” Fox said. 

McKinney emphasized that the LGBT Resource Center is available for any student in need of someone to talk to, as well as a variety of other resources.

“Our office will try to reach out as much as we can in different avenues,” McKinney said. “The more we talk, the more safety we’re gonna find.”

On Nov. 6, Democrat Sarah McBride became Delaware’s sole congressional representative, winning her election against Republican candidate John Whalen III with 57.9% of the vote. McBride previously became the first out transgender person to be elected to a state senate, winning one of 21 senate seats in Delaware in 2020. Her most recent victory marks another significant milestone in LGBTQ+ history, as McBride is now the highest government official to publicly identify as transgender. 

In an interview with NPR, McBride said that even though she’s the first openly transgender representative, she won’t be the last. McBride said she wants to work toward a “world where it’s no longer noteworthy when a trans candidate runs and wins.”

During her campaign, McBride raised over $3 million from contributions around the country and received a lengthy list of endorsements from various organizations, including Planned Parenthood, Defend the Vote, Energy Conservation Specialists and Emily’s List. She was endorsed by many political figures, such as U.S. Senator Tom Carper, U.S. Senator Chris Coons, and U.S. Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester. After receiving a whopping 287,783 votes, the Associated Press called the race, declaring McBride the winner. 

To many students at Grand Valley State University, McBride’s triumph at the polls is an important milestone that redefines the ceiling of success for the LGBTQ+ community.

GVSU student Claire Huntley highlighted that McBride’s victory may usher in a new perspective for voters, especially those of the cisgender male demographic that has historically dominated the political sphere.

“(McBride’s election) is a great example of true representation of the American people, and a huge inspiration to anyone that has been told they weren’t enough,” Huntley said. “It brings in a new perspective that cisgender people, specifically men, don’t have.”

According to her campaign website, McBride aims to expand healthcare access, invest in economic policies, reform the criminal justice system, advocate for women’s and worker’s rights and work to tackle climate change.  Throughout her political career, McBride has been an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. 

“None of us know how long we have, but we do have a choice in whether we love or hate,” McBride said in her memoir “Tomorrow Will Be Different,” the foreword of which was written by President Joe Biden. “Every day that we rob people of the ability to live their lives to the fullest, we are undermining the most precious gift we are given as humans.”

McBride began her career in politics by serving as the student body president at American University in Washington, D.C. During her time as student body president, she established gender-neutral housing for first-year students and advocated for the addition of an LGBTQ+ and queer studies minor to the schools’ curriculum. A week before her term finished, McBride made international news by coming out as a transgender woman in the University’s newspaper, The Eagle. 

“I told about 115 people (about my identity), most of them peers, some of them former teachers, professors and administrators at AU,” McBride said in an interview with AU Radio. “Everyone met my news with excitement, happiness, relief and acceptance.” 

McBride has worked for former Delaware Governor Jack Markell and late Attorney General Beau Biden, as well as an intern in the Obama administration. According to the Delaware State Democrats, McBride’s accomplishments have included expanding healthcare access, requiring mental health and media literacy education in public schools, promoting green technology, and protecting workers and families. McBride created landmark legislation known as the “Healthy Delaware Families Act,” which provided workers with paid family and medical leave, and expanded Delaware’s social safety net. She most recently became a spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign, America’s largest LGBTQ+ rights organization.

While many GVSU students are celebrating McBride’s accomplishments, some feel the path to acceptance for transgender individuals is a winding road.

Rowan Armour, a graduate assistant in the Milton E. Ford LGBT Resource Center, said the election of the “first (out) trans person to Congress signals progress, but also serves as a reminder of how far society still has to come.”

“(McBride’s victory) is a major stepping stone for the trans community to see representation in Congress, but it’s important we remember the trans community at large experiences things like poverty and discrimination at alarming rates,” Armour said. “We celebrate the achievements of the LGBTQ+ community while recognizing the barriers that limit them.”

According to GVSU SDS member Eric Johnson, numerous organizations protested at the DNC, including the Freedom Road Socialist Organization, the National Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression and Jewish Voice for Peace. Each organization was given a clear section within the crowd and space to voice their opinions. 

Johnson said participating in political activism of that size was thrilling, and that attending SDS members had planned on joining the protest for many months.

“Everyone was excited to take part in something much larger than themselves,” Johnson said. 

GVSU SDS Membership Officer Gavin Shingles agreed with Johnson, noting the impact the march had on him.

“It was inspiring to see the massive amount (of) people coming together to pressure the Democrats to stop arming genocide,” Shingles said.

For GVSU SDS and the other protesting organizations, the biggest motivator behind attending the march was the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. On Oct. 7, about 1,200 people were killed in an attack on Israel by Hamas and more than 250 people were taken as hostages, according to the BBC. Since then, more than 40,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed due to aerial and artillery strikes sent out by the Israeli military, and on Aug. 13, the Biden administration approved a $20 billion weapons sale to Israel.

SDS, as a national organization, has supported an arms embargo on Israel and an end to all aid to Israel by the United States.

“Everyone has (an) obligation to oppose genocide, and the (Democratic Party) is actively participating in the genocide of Palestinians,” said Shingles. “They are giving Israel the bombs being dropped on Palestinians.”

As of Aug. 21, the Biden administration put forth a new proposal for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas; however, according to the New York Times, both Israel and Hamas officials have stated that “the U.S. proposal leaves major disagreements mostly unresolved.” 

During the DNC, Vice President Kamala Harris called for a ceasefire and a negotiation to free hostages in Gaza. Harris also expressed her disgust toward the growing Palestinian death toll. Since 2023, Harris has participated in meetings with the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and Egypt to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

“We have been very clear about where we stand on this, which is innocent civilian lives should not be intentionally targeted and that Israel must do more to protect innocent life in Gaza and innocent civilians in Gaza,” Harris said during a press briefing. “We continue to make that point, not only privately but publicly as well.”

Other concerns garnered by SDS are ensuring the rights of women, immigrants and union workers. In 2022, the Supreme Court overturned Roe V. Wade, which protected women’s right to abortion. In some states, it is now illegal to have an abortion, even in cases of rape, incest or health of the mother. According to Time, Harris has more substantial views on abortion rights than Biden, condemning the Supreme Court for its decision. During the DNC, Harris addressed women’s reproductive rights, and promised to defend them if elected.

President of GVSU SDS, Owen Frassetto, said he would like to see the Democratic Party follow through on the promises they made during the convention.

“We hold you (the Democratic Party) to the things you say you’re going to do,” Frassetto said. “You have to follow through.”

During the DNC, six of the largest labor unions in the United States announced their support for Harris’ presidential campaign. Many union leaders said that Harris has previously supported their unions in an uplifting manner. However, according to members of SDS, there were union workers among the protest that wanted to ensure the Democratic Party would secure their rights.

At the protest, SDS also expressed concerns regarding Harris’ immigration policies, which include stricter border security. Harris supported the bipartisan border security deal, which would have reduced border crossings, but it was ultimately stuck down by the Republican Party. In 2021, President Biden asked Harris to oversee border policy, which led her to work with several Latin American countries to alleviate factors of mass migration, including poverty and corruption.

On July 15, GVSU SDS also protested at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin over similar grievances. 

GVSU SDS has previously participated in numerous demonstrations both on and off campus. According to Frassetto, the student group will continue protesting for an end to U.S. aid to Israel, women’s and immigrants’ rights and union support.