About me
Asher McMaher (they/them/theirs) is the Executive Director of Trans Up Front IL, bringing over 10 years of advocacy experience for transgender and gender-expansive youth, teens, and young adults. They are also one of the very few transgender and deaf community leaders in the country and strive to provide education and advocacy through the lens of accessibility. As a dedicated advocate, Asher has worked tirelessly to create safe and supportive spaces for transgender individuals, particularly within youth communities. With a background in legal research, they have played a pivotal role in shaping policies and initiatives that protect and empower transgender people.Asher has been at the forefront of numerous advocacy campaigns, collaborating with organizations and policymakers to promote transgender rights and inclusion. Most recently, they organized the TDoV protest in downtown Chicago and currently lead a coalition of over 40 organizations supporting the TGNC+ community. Their work includes influencing legal frameworks and providing vital resources for transgender youth and their families.In addition to their advocacy work, Asher is a frequent speaker at conferences and workshops, where they share their expertise on transgender issues, legal protections, and community empowerment. Outside of their professional work, Asher enjoys spending quality time with their partner, children, and grandchildren.