TRANS MODEL AND ACTIVIST GEENA ROCERO: “BECAUSE OF BRUCE JENNER’S COURAGE, LIVES WILL BE

TRANS MODEL AND ACTIVIST GEENA ROCERO: “BECAUSE OF BRUCE JENNER’S COURAGE, LIVES WILL BE SAVED" Paper: As someone who received a lot of press when you came out as transgender last year, what have you thought of the media’s treatment of Bruce’s story?“So far, I think it’s amazing how much visibility it’s bringing, and will continue to bring. I think the media is getting better and better, every month, every year, at having a stronger and more empowered conversation about the transgender experience.”Paper: This seems like such a watershed moment for trans visibility. Where do you think trans awareness might be in 10 years?“My great hope is that globally, every country around the world recognizes a transgender person’s right to self-determine. At present, there’s still so many countries that do not recognize this fundamental human freedom.After that, my hope for my country is that trans people are allowed to serve openly in the military, that no trans child feels shame or fear around living their truth, and that people are no longer discriminated in the workplace for being trans.For me, transitioning was about living my truth, and it was about feeling safe in a community of people who understood me; at the time, I was surrounded by the LGBT community in the Philippines, and they taught me everything I needed to know. As long as you live your truth, you can never go wrong.Fifteen years later, sharing my story at TED and coming out to the fashion industry was about letting go of fear, and giving back. For every trans person who boldly lives their truth, they’re inspiring and emboldening a community of courageous individuals to do the same.”Paper: What would you say Bruce’s friends and family should keep in mind while he’s transitioning?“To love Bruce Jenner, to support Bruce Jenner. This is a brave decision, and it means everything to the country – and the world – because Bruce is willing to do it so publicly. For so long, the trans community has lived in the shadows. Because of Bruce’s courage, lives will be saved. So be proud. And know how grateful the rest of us are.”Read the full piece here -- source link

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