New York’s seminal report on equity

MILLERTON — In August 2022, Gov. Kathy Hochul took a significant step in promoting the rights of transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary (TGNCNB) individuals in New York by signing legislation that directed the New York State Department of Labor, in collaboration with the New York State Division on Human Rights, to conduct a comprehensive study on the employment experiences of these communities.

The groundbreaking report, released Jan. 5, is the first of its kind. In her introduction to this pivotal document, Hochul emphasized New York’s deep-rooted commitment to the LGBTQ+ community, recalling the state’s historical significance as the birthplace of the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement with the Stonewall Riots of 1969. She acknowledged the persistent hurdles that TGNCNB individuals face in securing fundamental services such as housing, healthcare and employment, underscoring the importance of this report in addressing these ongoing challenges.

Kiara St. James, a community organizer and public speaker, is the founder and executive director of the New York Transgender Advocacy Group, a trans-led, grassroots nonprofit organization. In a letter that accompanies Hochul’s, she writes: “I have always known that until data was collected on the TGNCNB community we would not be able to effectively advocate for resources such as affirming healthcare, housing, and employment opportunities. Collecting data leads to identifying the needs and priorities of marginalized communities.

“This is why I advocated for this report, and I am so appreciative of Governor Kathy Hochul for understanding how vital this data is to build a more inclusive space for TGNCNB New Yorkers.”

Key findings of the report point to the pervasive employment discrimination against TGNCNB individuals throughout the state, the still greater disparities faced by TGNCNB people of color and the lack of cultural competency regarding gender identity and expression across New York.

The report also noted the fear for safety in the workplace among TGNCNB individuals and the trend of these individuals seeking self-employment due to discrimination and other employment barriers. It also highlights the differences in experiences between TGNCNB individuals in urban centers and rural areas.

The report features quotes from individuals questioned for the collected data. Said one individual who self-identified as a trans male from the Hudson Valley: “I have been outed and was let go from my job. When I tried to find new employment, the previous employer lied about why I was let go and made it extremely difficult to find another job. I have had to tolerate queer-phobic work environments and hostile comments from bosses and employees.”

To address these issues, the report recommends several policy changes, including advocating for uniform data collection on gender identity by federal agencies, providing specialized workforce development programs for TGNCNB communities, mandating cultural competency and GENDA (Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act) training across the state, reducing barriers to obtaining affirming legal identification, and establishing best practices for employers.

The report aims to provide insights into the work lives of TGNCNB New Yorkers and identify ways to overcome barriers they face. In a time when anti-trans sentiment and laws are on the rise nationwide, New York state remains dedicated to advancing equality and inclusivity for TGNCNB individuals in the workforce, setting an example for the rest of the country.

Find the report at nysdolreports.com/gwg/2023-tgncnb/

The views expressed here are not necessarily those of The Millerton News and The News does not support or oppose candidates for public office.

Latest News

Pine Plains Bombers take home Section IX title

Michelle Blackburn, no. 12 of Pine Plains, helped lead the Bombers to victory over S.S. Seward Institute as point guard for most of the Section IX Class C tournament finals at Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, N.Y., on Wednesday, March 5. The Bombers took home the title after winning the hard-fought game 55-42.

Photo by Nathan Miller

NEWBURGH, N.Y. — The Pine Plains girls varsity Bombers won the Section IX Class C girls tournament Wednesday, March 5, at Mount Saint Mary College.

The Bombers took an early lead against S.S. Seward's Spartans and didn't let off the throttle for the rest of the night, wining the game 55-42.

Keep ReadingShow less
Sign-ups encouraged for 2025 Webutuck Little League

Ben Coon, 10, on the “mound,” practiced his pitching on Tuesday, March 4, in the Webutuck Elementary School gym, with Coach Colby Dunlop, left, giving pointers.

Photo by John Coston

AMENIA — The 2025 Webutuck Little League season is around the corner and the League said players are still needed to fill out teams for games to be played in Millerton and Amenia.

Registration remains open for T-ball, majors, minors, seniors and girls’ softball teams. Some scholarships are available to cover costs.

Keep ReadingShow less
Lent: Time to consider social gospel movement

We are entering the annual Christian season of Lent this week.With its 40 days of contemplation and “little Easter” Sundays, it is a time to remember the healing ministry and the sacrifice of Jesus.During this season, we are invited to think deeply about our role as agents of grace and love in our hurting world.

There is a long history of making sacrifices and commitments for Lent, modeling our discipleship and hopes for a more heavenly world. It is through this lens that I invite you to join us in considering what gifts and services the community needs that we can commit to bringing forth in the weeks leading up to Easter.While many lean into solitary introspection during Lent, it may be particularly advantageous to use our meditations and sacrifices for the greater good this year.

Keep ReadingShow less
Social Security funding cuts to impact Poughkeepsie office

POUGHKEEPSIE — In a letter directed to Lee Dudek, acting commissioner of the Social Security Administration, on Feb. 27, New York State attorney general Letitia James emphasized the consequences of downsizing services at their Poughkeepsie office.

On the heels of the news at the Poughkeepsie location, the social security office in White Plains is scheduled to close. Westchester officials have been weighing a plan to offer a county-owned location in a bid to preserve the office.

Keep ReadingShow less