In response to political and ideological attacks on transgender youth, many parents have unexpectedly found themselves among the most powerful and influential voices in the movement to protect trans youth, and in the broader LGBTQ+ movement for equality. For most of these parents, had it not been for their own child's gender journey they would have remained largely disconnected from the LGBTQ+ community and our political fights. This panel of three nationally recognized advocates began their journey at their kitchen tables, learning what it means to be trans, and building their advocacy muscles quietly at their school, with medical providers, and extended family members. They will share insights about their respective journeys that led them to advocacy on the national stage, and their unexpected immersion into the LGBTQ+ movement.
Moderator: Ellen Kahn (she/her), SVP, HRC Equality Programs, founder of HRC's Parents for Transgender Equality Council (PTEC)
Panelists: Aruna Rao (she/her), Founder and Director of Desi Rainbow
Mimi Lemay (she/her), Author, HRC PTEC Alumna
Stephen Chukumba (he/him) HRC PTEC member, Founder, Rainbow in Black
