Meet Andre
Andre's story
Thrive Fund recipient
In June, Andre (he/him) was elated to finally get his name and gender marker legally changed after four years of trying. However, the celebration was quickly thwarted after losing his job just days later. After losing his job, Andre struggled to afford the necessities let alone the cost of updating his identity documents and obtaining a passport.
Andre is an award-winning activist, organizer, and educator with 4+ years of community engagement experience who is passionate about LGBTQIA+ advocacy, the social determinants of health for marginalized people, and the intersection of the Black and queer identities. He is known for fostering inclusive environments, promoting cultural competence, and motivating community members to take action in support of civil liberties
"Both the passport and amended birth certificate are necessary to affirm my gender identity, protect me from discrimination when I am asked for identity documentation by employers," Andres explains.
Updating his identity documents will relieve the anxiety Andre has about his safety in situations where he is required to provide a form of identification. Having the proper documents will prevent any incidents of misgendering at doctor's offices, restaurants, or at his place of employment. Obtaining the passport will also provide Andre peace of mind.
Andre's timeline
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Award Granted
November 19, 2024
Andre was awarded a Thrive Fund award!
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December 17, 2024
A payment has been made to Andre's service provider!
Grant details
$315 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Andre get the care they need and deserve.
About Name Change/ID Update
On average, it costs $350+ for Andre's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Updating legal documents such as a name change or updating gender markers on IDs allows trans individuals to align their official records with their gender identity. This often includes changes to a driver’s license, passport, Social Security records, and birth certificates.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Trans folks with IDs that do not reflect their gender identity often face barriers, including job discrimination, housing issues, and challenges when accessing healthcare or traveling. This can lead to a constant need to explain themselves and increases their risk of harassment or discrimination.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
The process and cost vary by state or country, with fees for court orders, certified copies, and updates to multiple documents. Many trans people also face legal, bureaucratic, or discriminatory hurdles, especially in states with restrictive policies. Financial costs can be prohibitive for those with limited resources.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Having accurate IDs improves safety, reduces stress, and provides greater freedom and confidence in daily life. It allows trans individuals to navigate healthcare, public spaces, job applications, and travel without fear of being outed or misgendered.