A love letter to trans people

Things are really really scary for us right now. More than ever we have to remember that we have community, here and everywhere. Trans people have always existed and will continue to.

Listen, younger folks especially. We will fight for you, tooth and nail. This is a dark time, but it won't last forever.

You will find accepting friends, accepting family. Even if not by blood. Volatile legislation will change back in your favor, especially if we have anything to say about it. If you want to transition medically, remember that's still in your future. Even if it has to wait a bit longer, hold on. The world is more beautiful with you in it. If it's safe for you, exist as yourself as much as you can in the meantime. You will find the right people.

Don't try to appeal to narrow minded ideas. Be as weird and strange and undefinable as you want. Even if that's just in private.

Do whatever you can to not just survive, but truly live. Surviving and finding happiness in any form you can is a form of defiance in today's world.

Trans people of color especially: I see you. I love you. I'm sorry the community hasn't been there for you as much as we should be. We all need to stand up and look out for our most vulnerable.

Cis allies: check in with the trans people in your life. It's a scary fucking time. But knowing we're not alone is everything. If you can, look into local godfundmes for trans folks in need. Whether they're unhoused, need money for hormones or other medical needs, or are trying to escape.

Older trans folks, or any age really: consider sharing stories of happiness and hope. Thank you for existing. You bring lightness to my heart.