While getting ready for school, Jacob, (formerly known as Angie, at least to himself- not everyone else seems to agree on the “formerly” part) stands in front of his mirror, chest bare. He has a piece of fabric held loosely by his fingers- a chest binder. He's worn it before, but he's not so sure it's safe anymore, as the black and blue around his eye throbs. The kids at school whispered horrible things to him, things they would do if he showed up, “ looking like a fag” again. They said they'd make him remember that he really is a girl. They'd- Jacob shut his eyes tight and shook his head, not wanting to remember the boys’ vulgar words, not wanting to imagine those rough hands on him, slithering up and down his body harshly. Frustrated tears well in his eyes and roll down his cheeks, defeated. He places the binder down on the bed and angrily throws open his drawers. He reaches all the way until his hand hits the back of it. He finds a singular bra hidden under some old boxer shorts, forgotten and unwanted. He clumsily hooks the fabric to his body. With one last forlorn look in the mirror, he quickly finishes getting dressed and makes his way outside, trying to soothe the aching in his chest.

Since I have no experience being transgender or of any orientation that is not common, I cannot speak for this community. But I can imagine the opposition young trans teens may face. Although our society seems to be becoming a bit more accepting, there is still some major pushback. I am not looking at this issue with a political lens, but a humanitarian one. To me, all humans should be treated with dignity and kindness and no one should be made to feel lesser than others, made to feel ashamed of who they are.

So I #StandWithTransKids, and anyone else who is treated unfairly. I hope you do too