Our trans loved ones are still here

I woke up yesterday to 3 inches of snow on the ground. In Houston.

For many reading this, 3 inches of snow is no big deal. But to those of us on the Gulf Coast, any snow is a big frickin' deal. Strange and beautiful.

I also woke up yesterday to the news of the dozens of asinine executive orders Trump signed on his first day in office. I had intentionally avoided any media on January 20 about the inauguration or predicted orders.

The big one in my world is the order for the federal government to recognize only two sexes, male and female. The actual signed order is long and difficult to stomach, but it's here if you want to read it.

The anti-DEI order sucks, too. And so many others.

An executive order carries the force of law and doesn't require Congressional approval. But this use of executive power does have limits: executive orders can be revoked by the next president, challenged in the courts, or checked by Congress through legislation or withholding funding. Helpful explanations of how this all works: here and here.

I barely know what to say. I know you're hurting for your trans loved ones and for yourselves. And yet.

There is still truth. My kids will still be transgender no matter who signs what order. They are who they are. They will still live in that beautiful space of not male, not female, but somewhere else in the vast gender universe.

There is still courage. So many organizations have strengthened their resolve and are ready to fight (like GLAD Law, Lambda Legal, and Gender Liberation Movement).

There is still resistance. The very act of existing in this world as transgender, nonbinary, or gender expansive is a challenge to those who wish to erase them.

There is still joy. Trans joy is one of the most beautiful human expressions I've been privileged to witness. No order can take joy from people's hearts.

There is still gratitude. I'm thankful that you're reading this, knowing that I'm not the only one working for a better world for our trans loved ones.

There is hope. Every day I am humbled and privileged to be alongside people who work their tails off for trans rights and equality and are on the right side of history. Millions of people will continue fighting.

And there is always community. Strength comes from shared experiences and knowing you're not alone.