You tell me to stay strong and keep pushing forward. You say I’m doing a fantastic job raising my child, and that I should be vocal about our journey. You assure me of your unwavering support and love, promising to stand by me and my child through thick and thin.
Yet, I can’t shake the feeling of isolation. It’s as if I’m on a beach, watching a massive wave approach, and I’m terrified—terrified for my child, for myself, and for those I hold dear. I’m scared and unsure how to find my voice, how to summon the bravery to be open about our struggles.
Your child isn’t trans. They aren’t facing discrimination in schools or being denied access to bathrooms that correspond with their identity. Your child isn’t labeled a monster, a freak, or a sinner.
When policies like the Affordable Care Act are repealed, it won’t be your child who is denied essential medical services such as hormone blockers or therapy. It won’t be your child who is brought to tears at the thought of not being recognized for who they truly are. Since the removal of protections for trans youth in schools, it won’t be your child left waiting outside the restroom while their peers find comfort and safety. Your child won’t have to endure the kind of discrimination that leads to emotional and physical harm.
You remind me to be brave and acknowledge my fears. You say you’re in my corner. But the truth is, you won’t be there when they come for my child. You won’t be standing with me when they claim I’m harming him by supporting his identity.
You encourage me to share my story, to keep the dialogue open, and I appreciate that. But I need more than words.
I need you—those of you who aren’t directly affected—to step up as our advocates. Call your representatives, demand that all trans individuals, regardless of age, be treated with dignity and respect. I need you to reach out to your schools and local authorities to ensure they implement inclusive policies that allow trans students to use the restrooms that align with their identity.
I need you to talk to your friends and neighbors about trans issues beyond just sharing posts online. Engage with them in meaningful conversations. Often, fear and ignorance fuel prejudice, and you have the power to change that.
I need your voices at rallies, protests, and community events. Share why protecting my trans child is important to you. Remind everyone that safeguarding the rights of all trans youth is a shared responsibility and a necessity for our society.
Because while your child isn’t trans, mine is—and I am filled with fear for their future.
For more resources on how to navigate these challenges, check out this blog post on home insemination and explore effective fertility options at Make A Mom. Additionally, the UCSF Center for Reproductive Health is an excellent resource for guidance and support.