Jennifer: Mom supporting her trans kid

My child came to me 3 years ago and told me he was trans and wanted to use he/him pronouns. Instead of mourning the loss of my child, I choose to celebrate that they felt comfortable enough to come to me and celebrate the person he is now.

When my son cut his long hair to a more masculine cut, seeing the smile on his face is when it hit me that is who he is meant to be.

If you're just starting your journey: Don't be afraid to set boundaries or move past those people who do not support you.

"I’m gay and that’s okay" - Jordan's Hella Gay story

Once I began to heal my inner wounds, and focused on building up my confidence - I gave myself so much love and grace, and decided it’s time to shine baby !!! Also the support of my family and friends really allowed the safe space for me to feel comfortable to blossom even more into the beautiful (gay) butterfly I was meant to be! Lol

It was so freeing once I felt safe enough to be exactly who I am, and realized the true beauty of my uniqueness instead of trying to hide it!

For those starting their LGBTQ+ journey: I know it feels scary right now, like it’s never going to get easier and you’ll never be able to be yourself..but just hold on because there’s a whole new version of you waiting to feel safe to come out!! You’re gonna get there, just be kind and patient with yourself. Find media you can relate to..you’ll feel seen watching LGBTQ+ movies and tv shows, and finding artists/ social media people who identify as LGBTQ+. You are definitely not alone.

(Anonymous) A mom supporting her trans kid

15 months ago my then 12yo trans child was brutally attacked and nearly beat to death at school by a fellow classmate. She has lifelong traumatic brain injuries, seizures, POTS, hearing/vision issues, etc. this was a life changing experience for her. Despite what she has endured and continues to endure, her attack solidified even more who she is and she now lives her authentic self and truth regardless of someone’s approval or not. She holds her head up high and refuses to let this act of violence and hatred hold her back or define her.

For those in their queer journey: Keep going! You are worthy of love, acceptance, affirmation, support and so much more! Times may be tough now but you will overcome and have so many people supporting you and fighting for you.

Alexa: Stepping up to be a mother to those who had been rejected

I grew up during the 1980's when it was very unsafe to be LBGBTQ. It left a deep impression on me. Even as a teen during those years I couldn't fathom how so many people could be so cruel. My son came out to me when he was 13. I asked if he was sure (worried about his safety). He said yes. Well as your mom I have some fears about your being safe so I'm going to talk with a therapist to help me with that part. Which I set up the very next day for a few sessions which did help and had questions answered. When my son was a few years older I began to share some of the history of the 1980s. Although we said love you's it was always a given I would unconditionally love him. He's been married 14 years. We love his husband, I esp. love that he calls me mom, he has my full on heart love as well. My husband and I love them both. They are blessed with a loving,giving relationship.

Alexa: Advice to those are alone in their journey

Look up support groups, look up about the groups that are out there that will be the people stepping up as moms an dads with their hearts open without judgement. You are a whole healthy person. Never ever give up on yourself. I suffered from depression for years. Each time I thought of death as an option I would say let's wait and see what tomorrow brings. Keep waiting because that tomorrow will come. I know your thinking what does she know. My situation was different but still very difficult. That's the why I'm saying and believe you have a right to live. To fight for yourself in a healthy way by finding groups. I know that 'Death' is a seducer, whispering lies. They are lies. If you can't think of any reason not to die, then hell, do it to spite ones who hate. You are a whole healthy person.

Kelly: Loving herself again in her 40s

In my early forty's I finally accepted who I am. I proud bi-sexual who loves myself! I am now working on my pronouns. I am free to be myself, unique & perfect.

My turning point was working through my relationship with God. He created me and loves me just as I am.

My message for someone starting their Pride journey: You are perfect just the way you are. Be yourself, the world needs you.