UMVA has learned that radical New York State Assemblymember Claire Valdez is throwing her hat into the Democratic primary for New York’s 7th congressional district, backed by her reputation as a longtime leader in NYC-DSA and support from Marxist NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
Valdez is putting ‘trans rights’ at the forefront of her campaign, emphasizing the need for universal programs like social housing and Medicare for all to specifically protect trans individuals. In a recent interview, she highlighted the disproportionate risk of homelessness and job retaliation faced by trans people, especially youth.
Valdez envisions a future where trans rights are enshrined within these universal programs, ensuring that Medicare for All includes gender-affirming care and healthcare for trans folks. She also advocates for a Trans Bill of Rights and protections in workplaces, as well as real housing solutions for those most at risk of homelessness.
As a New York State Assemblymember, Valdez has co-sponsored a bill aimed at increasing access to ‘gender-affirming care,’ including medical and surgical interventions, by providing funding and support for providers and nonprofits. This bill seeks to expand access to such care, particularly for lower-income patients.
However, data from a recent report reveals a more complex picture of homelessness in the US. Black Americans, Native Americans, and other racial/ethnic groups actually show the highest overall rates of homelessness, making up the largest shares of the homeless population. Transgender individuals, while disproportionately affected, comprise a relatively small percentage of the total homeless population.
The report estimates that approximately 2,500 to 2,600 transgender people experienced homelessness on a single night in the US, compared to 32,882 veterans. The data suggests that while trans individuals face significant challenges, a broader focus on addressing homelessness across all demographics is necessary.
