Happy Transgender Day of Visibility: March 31!

We celebrate you!

>> You may not be out yet.

>> You may be newly out.

>> You may have been out for a while!

This is your day.

If we look back at the last few years, it is so empowering to see greater representation from the transgender community, an example being the newly confirmed Assistant Health Secretary, Dr. Rachel Levine. As the Human Rights Campaign so beautifully put it, “Trans people are leaders, innovators, and change-makers—and deserve a seat at every table.

In November ‘20, Sarah McBride became the first-ever Trans State Senator in United States History. Advocacy also makes a huge difference and Laverne Cox, the artist, advocate, and executive director comes to mind; the documentary, “Disclosure” was a powerful narrative and a model for trans inclusion and representation in media.

Elliot Page was recently featured on the cover of Time, the first trans man to do so. And their heartwarming coming-out letter melted our hearts! Here’s a section:

“I have to share with you that I am trans, my pronouns are he/they, and my name is Elliot…I can’t begin to express how remarkable it feels to finally love who I am enough to pursue my authentic self. I’ve been endlessly inspired by so many in the trans community. Thank you for your courage.”

As a Mama Bear, there are three things I want to tell you:

You’re beautiful.

Yes, you are. Never doubt that. “You’re precious” and treat yourself that way.

You are authentic.

No one has a right to hold you back or push you forward. You, like everybody, have a right to your privacy. You know who you are, who you are becoming, and isn’t that wonderful. You have a right to choose your gender identity, your name, your pronouns, how you transition—you have a right to your life. And yes, you’re also not responsible for any projections people make or for their feelings. You take care of yourself.

You’re not alone.

There are situations (and there will be in the future), where you will be accepted just as you are. But there are others where you may encounter transphobia. You may need to advocate for yourself. If you’re being discriminated against by a teacher, a healthcare provider, or any adult, or being bullied, please reach out to a safe adult. You can reach out to The Trevor Project.

If you or anyone you know needs help, remember that we’re here for you 24/7 at 866.488.7386 or text/chat: thetrevorproject.org/help

Just know that you’re not alone. There are advocacy groups (and Mama Bears) working hard to change perceptions and laws and make the world a better place for you—as it should rightfully be, just like you deserve it to be.

There are challenges that cannot be denied. For anyone struggling, I’m reminded of these lines (author unknown): “One day, you will tell your story of how you’ve overcome what you’re going through now, and it will become part of someone else’s survival guide.” The words may sound inadequate and I apologize for that.

Today’s your day. Just know that we celebrate you. We hear you. We may not always know the right thing to say but will try. We are proud of you and we love you just the way you are.

(Inspired by the trans community, by the nonprofits and groups, The Trevor Project, Free Mom Hugs, Serendipitydodah: Home of the Mama Bears, and by Love!)

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