As a 10-year Army veteran, the majority of my growing-up years were spent in the military.

When I was a little kid, I was unapologetically curious and colorfully authentic until I was told to dim my feminine light.

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.”