I recently found myself traveling alone to speak at a conference and looking for a friendly breakfast table.
Trans Voices
Trans Voices: Stories of Resilience, Identity, and Allyship
The Our Fund Foundation is South Florida’s leading expert on LGBTQ issues, guiding philanthropy to build a thriving LGBTQ community. With $25M in
I was born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida — sheltered, bookish, and without the language to describe what I felt inside. As a kid, I always played the “dad” when my sister and I played house. I didn’t know why — I just knew bows and dresses weren’t for me. I wanted cornrows, Jordans, and basketball shorts. Eventually, people called me a tomboy. Still, I didn’t yet know what LGBTQ meant.
By the time I was 10, I'd stand in front of mirrors for hours, scrutinizing my face as I saw myself slip away. "Who's that boy?" I'd wonder.
About three years ago, I was approached by The Our Fund Foundation with an unexpected invitation.
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.”
Before marriage equality. Before many cisgender, heterosexual people could openly acknowledge a gay or lesbian relative or coworker.
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