Kate Anthony started in the Lone Star State.
It was there, in 2019, that she launched her app Euphoria, seeking information and resources on gender-affirming care. She knew there was a lot at stake, and if… passed anti-trans legislation, she and her company were forced to flee.
Anthony settled in Denver and made a plan about what to do next. She decided to carry on as the fight for trans rights continues. She is not alone in that decision. Many, if not all, apps serving the trans community are overexposed, under attack, and seemingly intrepid.
businesskinda.com ran a vibe check to see how trans entrepreneurs serving their communities are navigating right now. The human rights campaign told businesskinda.com that lawmakers in state houses submitted 344 anti-LGBTQ+ laws this session, more than 140 of which specifically target the trans community.
“We will not allow these anti-transgender people to bully us into giving information.” Aydian Dowling, Founder, Trace
These suggested restrictions range from a bill of Alabama who wants to refuse medical care for transitions to Iowa and Alaska a ban on sports practice by trans students. Louisiana submitted a bill to prohibit medical professionals from providing translation-related care to minors, and Florida now bans gender-affirming care under Medicaid.
Anthony said it is inevitable that her company will one day be sued by someone or a state. Other founders said they are closely monitoring legal systems, with some rethinking strategies related to consumer privacy and employee benefits. And for the startup and venture community, support is better late than never — it’s a critical time to defend trans founders.
Janice has been with businesskinda for 5 years, writing copy for client websites, blog posts, EDMs and other mediums to engage readers and encourage action. By collaborating with clients, our SEO manager and the wider businesskinda team, Janice seeks to understand an audience before creating memorable, persuasive copy.