Dear Trans Youth,
As you navigate a significant portion of your formative years under the current political climate, I want to share some thoughts with you. The universe is far more expansive and compassionate than you might realize.
In my city, there exists a vibrant online community with thousands of members dedicated to sharing resources and offering support. The twist? You need to identify as “queer” to join in.
“Queer” can feel like an odd term. It encompasses the LGBTQIA community and all the identities that exist beyond traditional norms. It signifies a rejection of societal expectations about what is considered “normal.”
You might see someone like me and not recognize my queerness. I’m married to a straight man, I have children, and I attend PTA meetings. But if I’m honest, I embody queerness in many ways.
This online space for queer individuals has been instrumental in my life. It’s where I’ve forged friendships, found my children’s nanny, discovered job opportunities, and learned about local queer businesses. It’s a place to engage with the queer community, shop at queer-owned stores, and support queer initiatives.
The individuals I’ve encountered there are empathetic, resilient, and committed to uplifting each other. They include college educators seeking resources for their LGBTQ students, gender-nonconforming artists who rescue and train therapy dogs for people with PTSD, and former housewives exploring their identities while supporting their partners through transitions. These are people who defy labels and are carving out their paths after navigating the turmoil of adolescence.
To all the young people feeling lost, upset, or hurt, know that your emotions are valid. Childhood, while often beautiful, can also bring about profound pain and confusion. Being different can intensify those feelings, making it seem as if no one understands or cares.
When those in power target you and strip away your humanity, it’s easy to feel like they represent the entire world. But they don’t.
There is a vast and ever-expanding community out there that genuinely cares. You might not know how to find them just yet, and they may not know how to reach you either. But trust me, they are looking for you. They’re ready to assist with job searches, medical care, education, and building a life worth living.
These allies are eager to share their experiences with hormone therapy, gender identity, and everything in between. They want to discuss movies, representation, and even the simple joys of cupcakes and puppies. They aim to help you become financially independent, ensure your safety, and welcome you into their communities.
You might be surprised to find that some of these allies don’t fit the stereotype of queerness. They could very well be anyone—like a mom in a minivan, advocating for inclusive school policies to ensure a safe environment for all children.
If you’re struggling and the world feels overwhelmingly harsh, I want you to know that it’s okay to feel that way—your pain is real. But know that this is only part of the larger narrative. There are more queer individuals around you than you may see. Many who may not identify as queer still stand firmly as allies, supporting your right to live authentically and safely.
Don’t lose hope in yourself or in us. We’re here, we care about you, and we’re fighting alongside you every single day.
If you’re interested in more resources for home insemination, check out this home insemination kit for more information. And for a deeper dive into community support, visit this resource which highlights black-owned businesses and their impact.
In summary, you are not alone. There are people out there who understand your struggles and are eager to support you. You are valued, you are loved, and you are not fighting this battle alone.