Climate Connections The McKenzie Project helps trans Floridians weather storms
Nov 10, 2025
Jasmine McKenzie, founder of the McKenzie Project in Miami, chats about her work supporting Black transgender communities. She highlights the unique vulnerabilities that these communities face during disasters, stemming from racism and transphobia. The conversation dives into the Hurricane Response Team (HRT) hub's vital role in providing emergency supplies after storms. McKenzie passionately advocates for more disaster relief initiatives led by and tailored to Black transgender individuals, showcasing the urgent need for inclusive support during crises.
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Disproportionate Disaster Vulnerability
- Hurricanes and disasters disproportionately harm Black transgender people due to racism, transphobia, poverty, and homelessness.
- These structural issues increase vulnerability before and after storms, limiting access to relief and shelters.
Design Inclusive Disaster Relief
- Ensure relief efforts are led by and explicitly serve Black transgender people to meet their specific needs.
- Provide ID-agnostic shelter access and essential supplies like power and food before and after storms.
McKenzie Project's Hurricane Response
- Jasmine McKenzie founded the McKenzie Project to support Miami's Black transgender community and created the HRT hub for storm relief.
- After Hurricane Milton they delivered generators, food baskets, and solar charging stations across Florida.