Nan Goldin Launches Print Sale to Aid Vulnerable Transgender Individuals

In recent years, the United States has witnessed a surge in anti-transgender legislation, with over 113 bills passed in 2025 alone. These laws pose a serious threat to the transgender community, especially concerning access to gender-affirming healthcare, such as hormone therapy and surgery. Amidst this climate of hostility, activists and artists like Nan Goldin are taking action to support transgender individuals.

Goldin, known for her candid portraiture, has partnered with the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art to launch a two-week online print sale. Their initiative features two five-by-seven-inch prints of her intimate portraits: “Jimmy Paulette at Wigstock” and “Thora with teddy bear.” Priced at $250 each, the sale, which ends on June 26, aims to raise funds for organizations supporting transgender rights and resources.

All proceeds from the sale will be distributed among the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art and two key organizations: the Sylvia Rivera Law Project and the Trans Income Project (TIP). Both organizations work tirelessly to provide legal aid, guaranteed income support, and advocacy for transgender individuals, particularly those who are marginalized.

The Trans Income Project, based in Louisiana, offers financial assistance to transgender people, doubling as an insurer for those who will lose access to Medicaid coverage for gender-affirming care. As the House of Representatives recently passed a bill that could strip Medicaid coverage for essential transgender healthcare, grassroots efforts like TIP are increasingly vital.

The print sale represents a crucial response to rising anti-trans rhetoric and legislation. Through art and activism, Goldin and participating organizations underscore the importance of supporting transgender communities’ right to exist safely and securely.