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PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Mason Crawford, Harm Reduction Coordinator at Safe Horizon Streetwork Project
1:42:04
ยท
138 sec
Mason Crawford, representing Safe Horizon's Streetwork Project, testified about their organization's work supporting transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary (TGNCNB) New Yorkers. He described Streetwork Project's services, including drop-in centers, shelters, and harm reduction programs, emphasizing their commitment to providing inclusive and affirming environments for TGNCNB individuals.
- Highlighted the organization's one-stop shop model, designed to remove barriers TGNCNB individuals often face when accessing services
- Described their harm reduction peer internship program, which empowers young people with lived experience to engage in community outreach
- Urged the council to invest in affirming housing solutions, expand access to gender-affirming care, strengthen legal protections, and support community-based initiatives for TGNCNB individuals
Mason Crawford (he/him)
1:42:04
Good afternoon and thank you for the opportunity to testify today.
1:42:08
My name is Mason Crawford.
1:42:10
I use hehim pronouns and I'm a harm reduction coordinator at Safe Horizon Street Work Project and I have submitted my full written testimony today.
1:42:18
Safe Horizon is the nation's largest non profit victim service organization, helping 250,000 New Yorkers each year who have experienced violence or abuse, and I'm honored to testify on behalf of Street Work Project, which has been a steadfast advocate and service provider for transgender, gender non conforming, and non binary New Yorkers for decades.
1:42:37
At Treat Work Project, we provide a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment where TGNCNB individuals can access essential services free from judgment and discrimination.
1:42:47
Our drop in centers and shelters are built on the principles of harm reduction, trauma informed care, and unconditional affirmation of identity.
1:42:55
Our one stop shop model is designed to remove barriers from TGNC and B individuals often faced when navigating traditional service systems.
1:43:02
We ensure that multiple services are available in one location, reducing the need for clients to move through multiple agencies that may not understand or respect their identities.
1:43:11
Street Work has also launched a harm reduction peer internship, a cash stipend program that empowers young people to engage in critical community outreach, educating the community on Narcan, facilitating syringe exchange, and offering safer use kits.
1:43:25
This initiative is specifically designed for young people with lived experience, including past or current substance use, sex work, and involvement with legal systems.
1:43:33
Beyond providing direct service, we cultivate joy and community through affinity groups, where infinity groups and cultural celebrations, often one of our most cherished events in our annual Kiki ball, where our clients can freely express themselves in a space to honor their history, artistry, and resilience.
1:43:51
Street Work Project is committed to standing in solidarity with TGNC and B New Yorkers now and forever.
1:43:58
We urge the council to invest in affirming housing solutions, expand access to gender affirming care, strengthen legal protections, and support community based initiatives that uplift TGNC individuals.
1:44:10
Safe Horizon supports the package of legislation on today's agenda.
1:44:14
We need our city leadership to step up and stand against violent, hateful, transphobic rhetoric and policy making coming out of Washington.
1:44:22
Thank you.
Farah Louis
1:44:22
Thank you.