What Protect the Dolls Actually Means
Because the dolls have carried us forward throughout history
What People Think Protect the Dolls Means
The movement began with a simple white T-shirt released by designer Connor Ives, emblazoned with the words “PROTECT THE DOLLS” in a classic serif typeface. The shirt retails for £75, which is roughly $100 USD.
For those unfamiliar, “the dolls” is a term of endearment and empowerment often used within queer and trans communities, especially among transgender women and femmes, to refer to each other with love, flair, and solidarity.
At first, I was surprised by the steep price tag. That reaction changed when I found out that all proceeds support Trans Lifeline, a trans-led organization that provides vital peer counseling for the transgender and gender-diverse community. This critical service is now at risk, as proposed cuts from the Trump administration could undermine community-based mental health support for trans people.
What Protect the Dolls Really Means
Protecting the dolls means using your privilege to uplift transgender women, especially Black and Brown transgender women.
It means funding the dolls, ensuring they have the tools to build financial stability.
It means putting roofs over their heads and providing access to gender-affirming care.
It means creating employment opportunities beyond sex work and nonprofit spaces.
And it means paving the way for future generations of transgender women to thrive.
Protecting the dolls is not a trend. It’s a commitment, one that must be practiced daily in policy, community, and personal action.
So yes, buy the shirt if you want! But just know that protecting the dolls starts with how you show up, how you share your resources, and how you choose to stand beside us every day.