This workshop will explore frameworks for understanding and relieving the disproportionate burden of HIV/AIDS in trans and gender non-conforming (TGNC) communities. Participants will contrast models that often increase stigma with those that empower, with particular attention paid to sexual health vs. risk language, and principles of harm reduction for sex and drug use. It is imperative that providers leverage the pleasure, joy and resilience of TGNC folks to realize our goal of ensuring that gender identity and expression do not determine a person’s serostatus and access to life-extending treatment.