“I want to fight”: LGBTQ Texans ready for legislative session as GOP lawmakers target them in dozens of bills

An Austin Pride parade attendee waves a rainbow flag as they pass the Capitol building on Aug. 20. (Credit: Azul Sordo/The Texas Tribune)

For LGBTQ mental health support, call the Trevor Project’s 24/7 toll-free support line at 866-488-7386. You can also reach a trained crisis counselor through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Masha Leah’s social circle is shrinking. Six families the transgender Austin resident knows left the state as Texas officials have spent years targeting trans youth and their parents with restrictive legislation and child abuse investigations.