Looking Ahead in 2026

As RMEQ continues our advocacy work this year, we are preparing to build off of the progress that was made in Colorado in 2025 and face new challenges in 2026. 

That means we are pushing for Colorado to continue to be a leader in protecting people’s right to live openly and authentically, while fighting back against continued attacks on LGBTQ+ people. 2026, like last year, will demand a lot from us. It is up to everyone to stand up for ourselves and each other, and to work together to fight back against discrimination.

At the state legislature: We are preparing for the next session of the Colorado General Assembly, which begins today, by working with community organizations and lawmakers to advance bills that will strengthen LGBTQ+ rights and provide protections for other underrepresented groups. 

• We will strongly oppose any efforts at the state capitol to discriminate against or limit access to services for trans Coloradans or anyone else in our communities. In 2025, with our partners, we were able to defeat all seven anti-LGBTQ+ bills that were introduced in Colorado.

On Colorado ballots: Rocky Mountain Equality is also working in opposition to two ballot proposals being pushed by Protect Kids Colorado, an anti-trans organization that imports extreme policy measures from outside Colorado. 

• These initiatives would ban transgender youth from playing sports with their friends and limit youth from receiving gender-affirming services supported by doctors and medical exports.

• RMEQ, along with community partners, is working to educate voters about the danger of these measures and asking that Coloradans come together to protect transgender youth and their families from unnecessary and unfounded attacks. Learn more about the ballot measures.

At the federal level: Transgender rights will continue to face attack in 2026 through court cases, federal legislation, and administrative action. We will continue to voice our community’s opposition to actions that challenge our freedom to exist. 

• In 2025, the federal government has limited access to gender-affirming care, eliminated crucial funding for initiatives serving LGBTQ+ people, and erased recognition of transgender identities.

• RMEQ has responded by issuing comments on federal rules, signing onto amicus briefs in federal court cases, joining movement letters, and working with our federal representatives to stand up for LGBTQ+ rights. 

How you can help: Our advocacy work cannot happen without you. Your voice and your experiences help inform us where people’s needs are and how we can most effectively fight for equality. We are stronger when we use our voices collectively, showing up, speaking out, and creating real and lasting change. 

1. Contacting your federal and state representatives is a great way to elevate LGBTQ+ issues and make your voice heard.

2. Sign up for One Colorado’s 2026 Lobby Day here if you want to learn how to directly engage with our Colorado state legislators.

3. Subscribe to our newsletter to learn about opportunities to show up, speak out, and make a difference as they come up.