Seattle’s Lavender Rights Project Secures New City Funding to Empower Black Transgender and Gender-Diverse Communities

In a major step toward advancing equity and safety for marginalized populations, the Seattle City Council has earmarked $250,000 in its proposed 2026 budget to bolster support services for Black transgender and gender-diverse individuals through a partnership with the Lavender Rights Project, a local nonprofit known for its advocacy and direct service work in the LGBTQ+ community. This funding, routed through the city’s Human Services Department, will expand legal, wellness, and educational programming specifically tailored for some of the city’s most vulnerable residents .

Founded in Seattle, the Lavender Rights Project has a track record of providing culturally competent legal services, advocacy, and community programming for LGBTQ+ individuals—especially transgender people and people of color. The organization addresses legal obstacles such as name and gender marker changes, discrimination, and barriers to stable housing and healthcare. Its holistic approach integrates wellness initiatives, peer support, and educational outreach, centering the voices and needs of Black trans and gender-diverse people .

In recent years, the Lavender Rights Project has expanded its partnerships with other LGBTQ+ organizations and local businesses to increase access to pro bono legal counsel and to advocate for policy changes aimed at dismantling systemic barriers facing trans and gender-diverse communities .

The $250,000 investment marks a significant policy commitment. According to the GSBA , the city’s largest LGBTQ+ and allied chamber of commerce, these funds will expand programs offering legal advice, community engagement, outreach, education, and holistic wellness—services that are often underfunded but crucial for Black trans and gender-diverse individuals navigating discrimination and marginalization .

The funding was championed by Councilmember Hollingsworth, who emphasized the importance of targeted support for those facing intersecting forms of oppression in accessing basic rights and economic opportunities .

Local business leaders, including those on Capitol Hill—Seattle’s historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood—have voiced strong support for the measure. The GSBA, which advocates for LGBTQ+ businesses and economic inclusion, highlighted the role of investments like this in fostering safer, more vibrant business districts where all residents and entrepreneurs can thrive .

Capitol Hill business owners and community members are encouraged to participate in upcoming forums and “Safety Socials” designed to discuss neighborhood safety and strategies for inclusive growth. These spaces, often co-hosted by the GSBA and local partners, provide opportunities for LGBTQ+ business owners, residents, and advocates to voice priorities and share feedback directly with city leaders .

Seattle’s targeted funding for the Lavender Rights Project stands out for its intersectional focus—addressing not only sexual orientation and gender identity but also the specific needs and resilience of Black transgender and gender-diverse people. This approach aligns with the broader goals of both the Lavender Rights Project and the GSBA: to reduce disparities, promote safety, and support economic mobility in the LGBTQ+ community .

The move comes at a time when trans and gender-diverse communities across the U.S. face increasing legislative and social challenges, including threats to healthcare access, discriminatory laws, and violence. Seattle’s investment, while locally focused, is seen by advocates as an example of how municipal governments can partner with grassroots organizations to deliver direct, culturally competent services .

The Lavender Rights Project’s expanded programming is likely to have ripple effects in Seattle’s business ecosystem. By strengthening economic security and well-being among Black trans and gender-diverse people, the initiative supports workforce participation, entrepreneurship, and consumer engagement in neighborhoods with a high density of LGBTQ+-owned businesses .

The GSBA’s advocacy underscores the link between inclusive public policy and business vitality. Investments in safety, access, and equity are positioned as foundational for economic growth and neighborhood stability, with the GSBA encouraging other cities to follow Seattle’s lead .

The Lavender Rights Project will soon begin rolling out expanded services, with updates to be shared at community events and through the GSBA network. In the meantime, advocates are urging residents, business owners, and allies to stay engaged, provide feedback, and participate in city hearings and public forums to ensure that the needs of Black trans and gender-diverse individuals remain a priority in Seattle’s policy agenda .

For those wishing to get involved, the GSBA is offering support for crafting public testimony and connecting stakeholders with city officials. The ongoing partnership between the Lavender Rights Project and Seattle’s business community is expected to serve as a model for inclusive investment and intersectional advocacy, both locally and nationally .