This year, I was able to be involved in two observances: One was with the Gender Alliance of South Sound in Tacoma, WA on Thursday evening, where I was incredibly blessed to help read names of some of the many fallen. The gods were with me indeed, allowing me to flawlessly pronounce names in unfamiliar languages, names I would have completely messed up on at any other time. My tears flowed freely and unashamedly, and through my veins coursed determination to continue in helping to spread the word, educate, and put an end to the hate.
I just recently (in the last few months) had the courage to admit to myself, my intentional family, and circle of friends that I have always felt I was in the wrong body, that I was a girl on the inside. The past year and a half or so has been one of incredible discovery, pain/joy, and change. I count myself among the trans community, and am proud to do so. On the weekend of Pride, in Olympia, WA, I was myself a victim of a hate crime like the ones which took so many of our brothers and sisters. I was fortunate. I survived, and it steeled my resolve. The dress I had worn that night remained in my closet until I wore it proudly for the observance on Thursday.
You, my sister, are an inspiration to me and countless others, and I applaud your work and your spirit. When in the South Puget Sound, you have a home.
A friend posted on her facebook yesterday, "“Because society thinks our identity is shameful, tonight we must be shameless in our identities."
This year, I was able to be involved in two observances: One was with the Gender Alliance of South Sound in Tacoma, WA on Thursday evening, where I was incredibly blessed to help read names of some of the many fallen. The gods were with me indeed, allowing me to flawlessly pronounce names in unfamiliar languages, names I would have completely messed up on at any other time. My tears flowed freely and unashamedly, and through my veins coursed determination to continue in helping to spread the word, educate, and put an end to the hate.
I just recently (in the last few months) had the courage to admit to myself, my intentional family, and circle of friends that I have always felt I was in the wrong body, that I was a girl on the inside. The past year and a half or so has been one of incredible discovery, pain/joy, and change. I count myself among the trans community, and am proud to do so. On the weekend of Pride, in Olympia, WA, I was myself a victim of a hate crime like the ones which took so many of our brothers and sisters. I was fortunate. I survived, and it steeled my resolve. The dress I had worn that night remained in my closet until I wore it proudly for the observance on Thursday.
You, my sister, are an inspiration to me and countless others, and I applaud your work and your spirit. When in the South Puget Sound, you have a home.
A friend posted on her facebook yesterday, "“Because society thinks our identity is shameful, tonight we must be shameless in our identities."
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