Sylvie, my citizen action project partner, and I have been thinking about creating a safe space for trans and non-binary individuals since 7th grade. Although we are running a Gender and Sexuality Affinity group, we found that many trans people didn’t feel comfortable sharing their experiences to cisgender people. That idea made our current trans and gender non-conforming affinity group, which meets every Monday at 11:30 a.m – 12 p.m. This affinity group is a wonderful space where non-cis people can be their true selves and embrace their identity around people who bring them up. We often find our conversations wander off of the topic of being trans, but we made a safe space where we can talk about whatever we want.

Being in a room full of trans and non-binary individuals is such an empowering experience, as I often feel uncomfortable talking to cis people, which is a uniquely transgender experience. Although we could not find a transgender teacher or staff member, we are guided by two queer teachers who have trans students, friends, and family members. They make sure we feel comfortable with them being there, and they don’t try to listen to our conversations since they are cisgender and do not want to interrupt us as we share our experiences.

This affinity group has really opened my eyes and made me feel more comfortable expressing my identity, and I hope that it continues when Sylvie and I go to High School.