For all the joy and resilience of LGBTQ culture, the transgender community faces unique, devastating vulnerabilities that demand specific attention.

The alliance has not always been harmonious. Historically, some mainstream gay and lesbian organizations marginalized trans people, viewing them as too "radical" or "confusing" for a public seeking assimilation (e.g., marriage equality). The term trans exclusionary radical feminist (TERF) describes a minority of lesbians and feminists who reject trans women as women, creating deep rifts. Conversely, the push for LGB without the T is a small but vocal movement that argues sexual orientation and gender identity are separate battles—a view overwhelmingly rejected by major LGBTQ organizations.