Youth-Led Zine Challenges Responses to Anti-LGBTQ+ Violence

A new publication, created by youth activists, is advocating for a shift in how communities address anti-LGBTQ+ violence, moving away from traditional policing and incarceration towards community-based solutions. The zine, titled “We Protect Us,” was authored by Jacqueline Pham, a student and prison abolitionist, and released by the GSA Network and the Transgender Law Center. Pham's involvement with social justice movements, including Black Lives Matter and Stop AAPI Hate, has shaped their perspective on the criminal legal system and the need for reform.

The Advocate

The zine addresses critical questions regarding how to respond to acts of violence, such as hate crimes, without relying on punitive measures. Pham expressed a desire for community validation in the aftermath of violence, stating, “I want my community to feel validated and legitimate.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern among activists about the effectiveness of the current justice system in ensuring safety for marginalized groups.

The Advocate

Despite a general decline in violent crime in the United States, LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face significant risks of identity-based violence. In 2024, the Federal Bureau of Investigation reported that 17.2 percent of all hate crimes were motivated by sexual orientation, while 4 percent were based on gender identity. The zine emphasizes the disproportionate impact of these crimes on marginalized communities, particularly highlighting the racial disparities within the prison system, where 38 percent of incarcerated individuals are Black, despite Black Americans comprising only 14 percent of the national population.

The Advocate

Chris Chavers, a senior national policy and programs organizer for the Transgender Law Center, criticized the reliance on state mechanisms for safety, stating, “Safety isn’t going to come from the state. All it does is lead to more incarceration and policing.” The zine encourages readers to envision alternatives to punitive responses, featuring discussion prompts and sections for community brainstorming. This approach aims to empower young people to take an active role in shaping the future of both prison reform and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

The Advocate

The publication highlights the importance of youth engagement in conversations about safety and justice. Gia Loving, Co-Executive Director of the GSA Network, noted that young people are crucial in these discussions, stating, “How do you keep yourself safe? We need actual youth leaders brainstorming that.” The zine serves as a platform for youth voices, encouraging them to explore creative solutions to violence against marginalized communities.

The Advocate

The release of “We Protect Us” marks a significant step in rethinking community responses to anti-LGBTQ+ violence. By advocating for community-based support and organizing, the zine aims to foster a dialogue around safety that does not rely on traditional punitive measures. As discussions about policing and LGBTQ+ rights become increasingly urgent, the perspectives of young activists like Pham and their peers are essential in shaping a more equitable future.

The Advocate