If you don’t look for it, it can be hard to find positive news about trans people in the U.S. and beyond. It’s a negative news cycle that’s warranted: Research organizations like the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs have shown that 50% of transgender people have survived sexual violence, that almost 80% of gender nonconforming youth have experienced bullying and abuse at school, and that trans women and trans people of color continue to be murdered and harassed by police at higher rates than any other group on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
There’s no doubt that these are important facts for news organizations and activists to distribute. Education and consciousness-raising allow us to work on strategies that support trans people where they’re most vulnerable.
At the same time, it’s important to elevate stories of trans strength and trans happiness. Such is the motivation behind this awesome website: We Happy Trans. The quote below from contributor Jen Richards sums up the site’s ideology.
“I don’t want to wait to see happy trans lives depicted in the media, so I’m doing it myself. That’s what this series intends.”
In addition to a variety of uplifting stories, the site offers different ways to connect and chat with other trans, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming people of all ages.
Venues for stories like this are crucial: It’s become clear in the past decade that the phrase “you are what you eat” goes for media as well as actual food. There’s no underestimating the effect our 24/7 news and social media cycles have on mental health. Here’s hoping that a Happy Trans story a day keeps the doctor away!
Author: Clare McKinley
