“Hands off 988!”: Protesters rally outside Trump Tower to defend LGBTQ+ crisis lifeline

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside Trump Tower on Saturday afternoon in a passionate protest against the planned dismantling of a vital mental health resource for LGBTQ+ youth.

The rally, titled “Hands Off 988!”, was organised in response to the Trump administration’s decision to terminate the specialised LGBTQ+ option on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The protest was led by workers from The Trevor Project, members of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1180, and supported by civil rights groups.

The demonstration began outside Pulitzer Plaza, just across from Trump Tower on Fifth Avenue. Protesters held placards reading “Protect Queer Youth” and “988 Saves Lives”, while speakers condemned the administration’s move as “dangerous” and “irresponsible”.

The decision to end the “Press 3” option - which connects LGBTQ+ callers to affirming, specially trained crisis counsellors - comes amid growing concern over youth mental health. Advocates argue that removing this tailored support could have devastating consequences, particularly as LGBTQ+ youth are statistically more likely to experience suicidal thoughts and attempts.

“This hotline has been a lifeline for so many,” said Mark Henson, interim Vice President for Advocacy at The Trevor Project. “If this programme disappears, we fear many young people will no longer feel safe reaching out for help.”

The protest coincided with a controversial Supreme Court ruling upholding Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors, further fuelling anger among demonstrators.

Rachael Fried, Executive Director of Jewish Queer Youth, warned: “Cutting services for LGBTQ+ youth through the 988 hotline will have deadly consequences. The very existence of this option sends a message that queer youth matter.”

The Department of Health and Human Services has stated that the change is due to the expiration of congressionally directed funding, and that LGBTQ+ callers will still have access to general crisis support. However, campaigners insist that general services cannot replace the need for specialised, affirming care.

As chants of “Hands off 988!” echoed through Midtown Manhattan, organisers vowed to continue fighting for the reinstatement of the LGBTQ+ lifeline and the protection of crisis workers’ jobs.

The protest concluded peacefully, with a renewed call for federal lawmakers to act swiftly to preserve the service before its scheduled termination on 17 July.