Assigned Media wants you to live! And, what keeps us steadfast and ready to meet the moment is the example of other members of our community who refuse to let fear or hopelessness keep them from their good work. Whether they’re inspiring us through their advocacy, their creativity, or their humor, these essays by prominent trans writers give us heart.
You Are Who We Are Fighting For
by Erin Reed and Zooey Zephyr
In the midst of these hard times, Erin Reed and Zooey Zephyr fight for you. Just as the trailblazers of the past fought for all of us to have a better world, they’re fighting for the trans community and for the soul of the country today.
When You Can’t Fight For Yourself, Fight For Your Community
by Naseem Jamnia
Sometimes, when you can’t fight for yourself, you fight for the sake of those around you. Naseem Jamnia brings their perspective on what keeps them going.
by Jay Edidin
In the face of this high stakes election, Jay Edidin shares why he chooses to survive.
by Riley Black
Recounting a harrowing night, Riley Black illustrates what survival means to her.
by Charlie Jane Anders
Charlie Jane Anders explains how stories are vital to understanding our community.
How to Stay With Us Using Science
by Veronica Esposito
In times of crisis, there are research backed methods to help you get through it.
I Am Transgender, I Want to Live
by Zinnia Jones
After a near death experience, Zinnia Jones is more resolute than ever before to survive.
by Valorie Van-Dieman
Whether it’s brown paper packages tied up with string, making art, saying fuck you to the haters, or video games, finding a reason to stick around can be as easy as listing a few of your favorite things.
by Riley Silverman
There are many uplifting, hopeful reasons for trans people to carry on fighting. Riley Silverman brings us some of the other ones.
Thank you for these uplifting essays!
I am the mother of a transgender man. I fear for him and his happiness and safety daily. I want to get active in supporting the community. What can we do to help?
First of all, if you are supporting your son you are already doing the most important thing, so well done, mom.
Your local PFLAG is a great organization that is particularly well suited to working with family members. Check them out, ask what they need, ask what local groups they recommend.
And, of course, we’d love to have your support as an Assigned Media member. We are a small, committed group of trans journalists, and we’re entirely supported by donations. https://www.assignedmedia.org/newsletter
If you’d prefer to give a one-time gift instead, you can do that on our donations page: https://www.assignedmedia.org/support
Call your senators! Tell them to push for trans rights. Stay informed. Help on the local level. Donate to Assigned Media, ACLU, and HRC. Hold your son tight. God knows we could all use a mom hug these days. Thank you for your support.
I want to live. With trauma from an early age giving me severe dissociation, plus only getting to experience life as the woman I wanted to be for the past three years, I feel like I haven’t really had the chance yet. I will fight in my life, body, and mind, and I will fight against anyone trying to stop me. Come get some motherfuckers, I’m not going back.
I found you on Bluesky and have now reposed your link there, as well as on Facebook.