Members of Trans United Charlotte.
Despite being a relatively recent addition to Charlotte’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community, Trans Unite Charlotte (TUCLT) has swiftly established its presence by organizing inclusive events and implementing vital initiatives that cater specifically to the trans population.
According to the group’s website, TUCLT is “Charlotte’s only non-profit exclusively for the Transgender community, run only by members of the Transgender community.” Founded on July 13, this new organization is dedicated to connecting and supporting the trans community in the culturally rich Queen City.
One noteworthy initiative was the Name Change Clinic, which took place on October 27. Collaborating with partners such as Tabbris, the Charlotte Gaymers Network (CGN), the Pauli Murray LGBTQ BAR Association, and Cadawaller Wickersham Taft LLP, alongside dedicated individuals like Katie Jenifer, Jonny, and Candelario Saldana, the event marked a successful debut in aiding community members.
Morgan Callahan, Co-Executive Director & Founding Board Member of TUCLT, elaborated on the numerous benefits this clinic offers to Charlotte’s trans community. “The Name Change Clinic is a community-led service designed to help transgender, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming folx begin the legal process of changing their names,” Callahan explained. “The clinic provides guidance with the required paperwork, ensuring that the process feels less daunting and bureaucratic, transforming it into a more affirming experience that empowers individuals to take significant steps closer to their true selves.”
In partnership with CGN, TUCLT will also be curating CGN’s innovative trans-inclusive event, T4T, for the foreseeable future. T4T stands as a beacon for the trans community, inviting all LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies to engage in a space dedicated to entertainment, relaxation, and meaningful connections during each gathering. These events aim to provide a much-needed respite, particularly amid the challenging current political and cultural climate.
Nora Morton, a fellow Co-Executive Director & Founding Board Member, expressed her excitement about carrying forward the legacy of CGN’s T4T events. “We feel that T4T events are a perfect addition to our offerings of support groups and community events,” Morton said with enthusiasm. “Together, we look forward to expanding these popular meetups, ensuring more opportunities for members and allies alike to come together, unwind, and celebrate in a welcoming environment dedicated to unity and support.”
The next T4T event is scheduled for Friday, November 15, and the Name Change Clinic is set to return on January 4, 2025. Additionally, a midway gathering dubbed “TRANSgiving” will take place on November 23 at the Hygge location on 1026 Jay Street in Charlotte. Thankfully, the Queen City’s transgender residents now have more spaces to call home and feel connected.
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**Interview with Morgan Callahan, Co-Executive Director & Founding Board Member of Trans United Charlotte (TUCLT)**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Morgan. TUCLT has made significant strides since its inception a few months ago. Can you tell us what inspired the establishment of this organization?
**Morgan Callahan:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The inspiration for Trans United Charlotte stemmed from a noticeable gap in support services specifically tailored for the transgender community in Charlotte. We recognized the need for a dedicated space where transgender, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming individuals could feel accepted, supported, and connected. Our mission is to empower that community through resources, events, and advocacy.
**Editor:** Your Name Change Clinic is one of your notable initiatives. Can you explain its importance and how it helps individuals in the transgender community?
**Morgan Callahan:** The Name Change Clinic is a cornerstone of our mission. Changing one’s name is a significant step for many members of the transgender community, as it helps affirm their identity. Our clinic offers a supportive environment where participants can get assistance with the often overwhelming legal paperwork involved. We aim to demystify the process and make it more accessible, allowing individuals to focus on their journey rather than the bureaucratic hurdles. It’s really about empowerment and community support.
**Editor:** What feedback have you received from the trans community regarding your programs, especially the Name Change Clinic?
**Morgan Callahan:** The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many attendees expressed relief at having a dedicated space where their needs were understood, and they’ve told us how much it means to have guidance through the name change process. Hearing stories of individuals feeling more like themselves after completing this step reaffirms why we started TUCLT in the first place.
**Editor:** What are some future initiatives that TUCLT is planning to implement as you continue to grow?
**Morgan Callahan:** We have several exciting plans on the horizon! We’re looking to host educational workshops on various topics relevant to the trans community, provide mental health resources, and organize social events that foster connections. We want to create a rich tapestry of support that addresses the diverse needs of our community members.
**Editor:** It sounds like TUCLT has a bright future ahead. How can members of the community or allies get involved or support your efforts?
**Morgan Callahan:** There are many ways to get involved! We welcome volunteers who wish to lend their skills to our programs, and donations are always appreciated to help sustain our initiatives. Allies can also play a critical role by amplifying our message, attending our events, and educating themselves about transgender issues. We believe that building a supportive environment requires all of us working together.
**Editor:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Morgan. It’s inspiring to see such essential work being done in the Charlotte community.
**Morgan Callahan:** Thank you for highlighting our efforts! We are excited to continue supporting and uplifting the trans community in Charlotte.