Taylor Brown leads New York City's first openly transgender municipal agency. Mayor Zohran Mamdani appointed her in March as head of the new LGBTQ Affairs Bureau. Brown is a civil rights advocate with two major challenges ahead.

The first task is urgent. Transgender people face increasing federal attacks, says Brown. 'The transgender community faces pressure from all sides, including the federal government,' she told WNYC. 'We must pay attention to these needs. They are crucial and very urgent.' The bureau must act quickly and provide concrete protection.

The second task goes deeper. Brown wants to address structural inequality decades old. This concerns work, housing, education and policing. Transgender and LGBTQ people of colour feel injustice most deeply. Gender-affirming care is essential for Brown personally. 'This is life-saving care for transgender people,' she says. The bureau will prioritise this work.

Brown mentions New York's own history. 'Transgender women started the modern civil rights movement here,' Brown says. 'I am truly proud and feel very honoured.' Her appointment marks a turning point for the city.