Launched by Chicago Therapy Collective in 2018, Trans-Inclusive Chicago is a Trans-led, community-powered campaign advancing economic justice, cultural visibility, and institutional accountability for Trans, Nonbinary, and gender expansive people across Chicago— starting in CTC’s home neighborhood of Andersonville.
The campaign responds to years of research and community input underscoring the importance of employment opportunities, visibility, and safety. Through five interconnected initiatives that draw on CTC’s core community programming– education, advocacy, and the arts– we help Trans people thrive while equipping businesses and institutions to do better.
Each initiative is informed and led by Trans people, ensuring this campaign remains rooted in lived experience and community accountability. Thus far, the campaign has brought together Trans artists, workers, organizers, businesses, and neighbors to move beyond symbolic inclusion toward strategic and high-impact, community-oriented change.
Trans-Inclusive Andersonville Pilot
A neighborhood pilot, launched in 2018 to strengthen Andersonville as a truly inclusive LGBTQ destination. The initiative supports Trans community members while helping local businesses grow as informed, accountable allies—through arts activation, direct training, and collaborative leadership with the Andersonville business community.
Trans Art Is
A Trans-centered arts and community activation initiative that creates paid opportunities for Trans artists while increasing visibility, education, and connection across the neighborhood. In 2022, Trans Art Is received City funding to expand its programming citywide. Since its start, Trans Art Is has showcased over 75 Trans, nonbinary, and gender expansive performers and artists and hosted exhibitions and performances reaching more than 12,500 attendees.
Hire Trans Now
An economic justice initiative increasing employment opportunities for Trans people by reducing stigma, supporting inclusive hiring practices, and directly connecting employers with qualified Trans job seekers. Hire Trans Now recognizes that stable employment is foundational to mental health and community wellbeing. CTC’s team works directly with employers, helping them to do their part to address employment disparities facing un- and under-employed Trans job seekers.
Get Trained
Customized education, training, and consultation for businesses and organizations seeking to better support Trans employees, customers, and clients. Get Trained offers practical, non-punitive guidance to help organizations move from intention to meaningful inclusion.
Get Feedback
A community accountability tool that centers Trans voices through an accessible survey. Get Feedback elevates lived experience, identifies patterns across sectors, and connects organizations with support when improvements are needed—ensuring inclusion efforts remain responsive and measurable.
