If you knew trans youth…
Cam, age 8, Minnesota
Jesse Freidin, Are You Okay?
As someone who has spent about 8,000 hours with trans youth in individual and group therapy, I can confidently say that they are some of the most resilient, self-aware, and inspiring individuals I have ever met. In a world that often tries to tell them who they should be, they have found the courage to live authentically and on their own terms. It is a privilege to learn from them every day. And let me tell you, they know themselves in ways that many of us could only dream of.
From a young age, they have had to grapple with questions of identity, often in the face of intense societal pressure to conform to gender norms. But rather than let these pressures define them, they have taken ownership of their identities and learned to embrace who they truly are. In this current tidal wave of anti-trans legislation when they are constantly receiving messaging that their very identities should be outlawed, they are not backing down and instead radically choosing to be their authentic selves. In doing so, they continue the legacy of so many trans and gender expansive people before them and act as powerful advocates for themselves and others like them. They have shown us that there is no one "right" way to be trans and that each person's journey is unique and deserving of respect.
The key to being a good ally is not to assume that we know what is best for trans people, but to listen to them and let them lead the way. Sadly, not everyone has had the opportunity to spend time with trans youth and learn from their experiences – and it shows! As a therapist, I am committed to respecting the privacy of my clients, but I also believe in the power of storytelling as a means of fostering allyship. The ‘Are You OK?’ project was an answer to my desire to share these incredible young people’s stories with the public. Jesse Freidin’s project passes the microphone to kids and families who find empowerment in sharing their stories using their portraits as a visual remedy to trans stigmatization. By witnessing their photos and hearing their voices you can’t help but feel like you know and love these kids.
Steve, age 14, Kentucky
Jesse Freidin, Are You Okay?
So if you haven't had the chance to spend time with trans youth, I encourage you to seek out their stories through resources like the award winning ‘Are You OK?’ project. By sharing their stories and perspectives, these young people and their families are helping to raise awareness and promote understanding of the challenges faced by the trans community.
As Steve, a 14 year old from Kentucky said, “I’m proud of myself, I’m not going to be shot down by others’ opinions. My voice is louder than theirs.”
These kids are our future and we should fight like hell to protect them.
Want to bring this project to your community?
Jesse and I work with schools, companies and DEI groups around the country, both virtually and in person. Now is the time to go beyond 'Pronouns 101' and use empathy and storytelling to educate.
The Power of Trans Youth: Diversity and Allyship Through Storytelling is an engaging presentation for groups committed to prioritizing the safety and inclusion of trans, non-binary and gender expansive community members. Our programming offers inspiring first hand accounts of trans youth and their supportive families from across the country. Sharing this beautiful project makes a clear statement to the LGBTQIA+ members of your community that they are seen and heard, and teaches others how to become active allies with compassion and understanding. We’re confident the narratives of these young people and their families will create positive change, teach with love and foster an inclusive community or workplace.
