I have always lived my life unapologetically; first "Gay & Proud," and then, "Trans & Proud." I am still proud, but now I am more afraid than ever. Trans rights are under unprecedented attack, as lawmakers push policies that specifically target us. I wonder why my, or our, existence provokes such fear and hostility.

Growing up in the ’80s and ’90s in Liberty City as a Black Transwoman was challenging. At the time, there were no role models, no media representation, and no organizations to support Transgender individuals. In my eyes, all we had was each other, “Black Transwomen trying to survive.”

Before marriage equality. Before many cisgender, heterosexual people could openly acknowledge a gay or lesbian relative or coworker.