Dozens of Long Islanders rallied Saturday at the Nassau County legislative building in Mineola to support transgender rights and celebrate collective pride.

Advocates say they are standing firm against a rise in anti-trans legislation and rhetoric.

“When society treats transgender people like a problem, a debate, or something to fear, it creates real harm,” one activist said. “It builds an environment where violence becomes easier to ignore.”

Speakers also raised concerns about funding cuts for gender-affirming care, violence targeting transgender people, and restrictions on transgender athletes.

“This gathering is more than a rally. It is a declaration of our pride and a reminder of the collective power we hold when we rise together,” said Juli Grey-Owens, executive director of Gender Equality New York. “Our voices matter. Our lives matter. And we refuse to be silenced, erased, or pushed back into the shadows.”