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Support Starts Here

Many in the LGBTQIA+ community are looking for resources, community and support in these turbulent political times. Resource Center has compiled a list of resources and FAQs below. If you need additional assistance, please contact us at 214-521-5124 or fill out a contact form at myresourcecenter.org/contact-us

Healthcare Resources

Resource Center operates a complete range of healthcare services for the LGBTQIA+ community and people living with HIV/AIDS. 

Immediate Mental Health Resources

988

988

National Suicide and Crisis Helpline

Trans Lifeline

Trans Lifeline

Provides peer support for the transgender community

Trevor Project

Trevor Project

24/7 Suicide Hotline for LGBTQ Youth

Q Chat Space

Q Chat Space

Supportive online space for LGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-19

Mental Health/Counseling Services

Resource Center Affirming Mental Healthcare provides accepting and affirmative counseling services in-person and Telehealth for the LGBTQIA+ and allied community in Texas for adults (18+). Insurance accepted and self-pay rates available.

Call 214-393-3640 or email counseling@myresourcecenter.org 

Legal/Family Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

The FAQ below is informational only. Resource Center cannot provide legal advice. Every situation is different, and you should consult an attorney before taking action.

Can my same-sex partner and I adopt?

Yes. Adoption by same-sex couples is legal in all 50 states and studies show that LGBTQIA+ couples are 4x more likely to adopt. However, you may face roadblocks in states like Texas where adoption agencies refuse to place with same-sex couples. Make sure to do your research on agencies or adoption professionals before proceeding. You may also wish to consult an attorney.

Can the Supreme Court take away marriage for same-sex couples?

Potentially. While SCOTUS held that marriage equality is the law of the land in 2015, we know that cases may come that would challenge the Obergefell ruling. If the Obergefell ruling was to be completely overturned, the Respect for Marriage Act, passed by Congress in 2022, would still stand. This would mean that all states would have to recognize the validity of lawful same-sex marriages.

I’ve heard marriage is under threat for LGBTQIA+ people. Can the President take away marriage for same-sex couples?

No. Marriage equality has been the law of the land since 2015 due to the Supreme Court ruling in the Obergefell case. The President cannot act unilaterally to overturn this ruling. However, if a case goes to the Supreme Court, it is possible the Obergefell ruling could be overturned.

What do President Trump’s executive orders targeting transgender individuals mean?

Executive orders are directives from the President but do not change laws. They are a wish list, not a magic wand. They will take time to be implemented and may be challenged in court. No President, or government,  can determine who you are.

Can Congress take away marriage for same-sex couples?

Congress passed the Respect for Marriage Act in 2022 which requires the federal government, and all states recognize the validity of lawful, same-sex marriages in the United States. Congress could act to repeal or amend this legislation, but it is unlikely given the bipartisan support this bill received.

Can the Texas Legislature or state officials take away marriage for same sex couples?
No. The state constitutional ban on same-sex marriage remains on the books but has been unconstitutional and unenforceable since 2015. At present, the Obergefell ruling and federal law supersede the Texas ban.  
Should I get married ASAP?
Only you and your partner can decide if marriage is right for you. You should take time to understand the legal and financial consequences of marriage before proceeding. We recommend consulting an attorney and/or financial professionals to understand the impact and options for your situation.  
How can my same-sex partner and I ensure our wishes are protected?
Attorneys who specialize in estate and family planning can help you understand the full range of options available including marriage, directives and other legal protections.  

Forms of Identification

Frequently Asked Questions

The FAQ below is informational only. Resource Center cannot provide legal advice. Every situation is different, and you should consult an attorney before taking action.

Can I change my gender marker on my Texas driver’s license?
Not at this time. In 2024, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced they would no longer honor court ordered gender marker changes for Texas licenses, except for “clerical errors.” Additionally, DPS will no longer accept an order for a name change that also includes a gender marker change.   
 
Attempting to change your gender marker with DPS may result in the agency collecting a copy of your order. Thus, many legal advocacy groups have advised community members to not try and change gender markers.  
Can I change my gender marker on my Texas birth certificate?
Not at this time. In 2024, the Texas Bureau of Vital Statistics (BVS) announced they would no longer change gender markers on birth certificates, except for errors made by a hospital. 
A4TE – Advocates for Trans Equality Documents Guide 
Texas Law Help – Name and Gender Marker Change Guide 
 
Legal Resources and Help Desks 

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Advocacy stretches back to Resource Center’s founding during the HIV/AIDS crisis. We fight for the equal rights of LGBTQIA+ people throughout the year. 
 
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Nov. 23 &24.