
We see your fear. We hear your cries. We feel it too.
For a moment in time, we wanted to bury our heads in the sand because taking care of our mental health was a necessity and the news cycle was just too much. But, like you, we don't have the luxury of ignoring the breaking news from the Oval Office. Another thing that our friends, family and neighbors don't understand. Loved ones of trans kids don't have that privilege.
Today's Executive Order sent all of us reeling. Of the scores of people texting us, one common theme emerged. It feels like the end of times. But isn't that what they want? They want us to give up. They want us to disappear. They especially want us to be afraid. Well, we hate to break it to them, but trans people and the people who love them aren't going anywhere. We were made for times such as these.
Here's what the latest Executive Order does not do. It does not immediately go into effect. It instructs the government to take action, but it doesn't say how. It leaves it up to government agencies to figure out how to implement the direction, and that takes time. It does not make laws. Only Congress can do that. Direction like this will be fought. HARD. In fact, groups are already suiting up. Like you, really smart advocates and legal allies are trying to sort through it all to figure out what it means. They are ready. They have been preparing for this fight. You are not alone.
If you are a loved one, caregiver, guardian or parent--please talk to your trans kiddos and explain this to them. Limit their exposure to the news and especially social media. There will be so much misinformation and fear--even from well-intentioned people. We don't need more fear. Do whatever it takes to care for your person's mental health. That is the most important thing you can do in this moment.
When the world feels utterly hopeless, I think of Mr. Rogers' advice...look for the helpers. They are out there.
Thanks to some amazing friends who just want to do something, they've helped me quickly compile resources to find the most up-to-date information. We know this Executive Order will be challenged in court. And we know that there will be a cesspool of misinformation swirling to scare us and keep us utterly confused. They want to paralyze us with fear. That's what dictators and hate mongers do.
For the most accurate information, look to these helpers:
You can be a helper, too. Share this blog post and GraceChangesThings.com. If you would like information you can distribute from your place of business or church, email us at info@gracechangesthings.com.
Above all else, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. We will be here to provide information to resources and connect you with those who can offer help. We won't stop until every trans kiddo can access the help they need to live their happiest lives.
If you or your child are struggling, please ask for help. Find resources and suicide prevention hotline information here.
“I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change.
I am changing the things I cannot accept.” — Angela Davis