Friday night was a wonderful night for the transgender community. An interview with Bruce Jenner, conducted by Diane Sawyer, went as well as it could have. Many folks in the community were cautiously optimistic. Whether they knew it or not, Bruce Jenner and Diane Sawyer had a massive responsibility  to shine a positive light on the transgender community. As of this evening, the reviews are mostly favorable.

I am truly thankful that Bruce chose to share their journey (I’m using neutral pronouns  though Bruce didn’t request that during the interview  I think it’s important to recognize that many people prefer a specific pronoun). As someone with quite a bit of celebrity, sharing the journey in a thoughtful, intelligent way is so powerful. Remaining private was certainly an option (and one that would have been totally understandable), but Bruce chose to bring the world into their life, and I think many people are grateful. Opening this conversation as often as we can goes a long way to gaining support and resources for trans* community.

Not All Trans Individuals are Famous

(and they count, too!)

While I am certainly thankful to Bruce, it’s also paramount to discuss the trans* folks who are not famous. Those who do not have resources to care for themselves or to finance a transition that feels authentic to them. I am thrilled that Bruce is able to be supported by their family and so many people in the media. I am also thrilled that Bruce demonstrates that transitioning, should one want to, regardless of age is a wonderful, worthwhile journey.

I want to talk about the teenagers, the 20 somethings ,and the older adults who are afraid. The ones who fear their families will completely disown them. The ones who pray they aren’t trans. I want to shine a light on the kids who saw that interview and felt either elated or terrified (or both) as they watched their family react to Bruce Jenner. I want for all of us to stop today and think about those people who want to transition but fear for their lives. For those who would lose their church family if they were to come out. For those who would experience physical violence if anyone knew of their true identity. For those that will or already have lost their jobs. There is a reason that between 41 and 46% of the trans community attempts suicide at some point. The suicide statistics are appalling and unacceptable. Even Bruce Jenner, with possibly every resource available, admitted to considering suicide. Our society, overall, is not accepting of trans identities. Thankfully, we have the opportunity (and responsibility) to affect change and make our communities places that are more kind and accepting to trans individuals.

Show Your Support

Being a supporter and an ally involves coming out as well. Sharing that we stand in solidarity with trans* folks can be scary. It takes courage. I ask that you muster that courage though and find ways to make it known that you support transgender individuals. Perhaps you post or like a Facebook status about trans* issues. Better yet, share an educational article. Do something, even if it’s small, to let people know. You likely know someone who is trans, and when they see your support, it will make their day and provide hope.