Cool Opportunity for Young Trans Person, Pittsburgh Area

The purpose of the Initiative for Transgender Leadership (ITL) is to positively impact community life through professional and leadership development of transgender youth.

ITL is a project that will grant a paid, 10-month, part time Fellowship to one motivated trans-identified young person (age 17-25).

Our idea is that one motivated young trans person can change the world through their creativity and dedication if provided with a welcoming and supportive place to work. Not enough doors have been open to trans youth for professional development; in fact, hazards and concerns around simply coming out in the professional realm have presented a barrier to learning and accomplishment. We are committed to generating a new experience of safety and agency for trans youth in the working world.

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One Parent’s Path

It’s rare to see an article by a parent about a child’s transition, much less one that openly struggles with the issues a religious faith brings into the mix.

Inwardly I wrestled with the changes in my child: shoulders broadening, cheek fuzz turning into beard, voice deepening. In a way it was fascinating: Who could imagine that a body would respond so dramatically to hormone treatment? And yet…where was my daughter? I couldn’t bear the thought of her disappearing before my eyes.

Outwardly, with the exception of my mother and one or two other people, I kept what was happening private. Talking about the situation felt too uncomfortable. I was embarrassed and ashamed that such a shande (shameful thing) could have happened in my family.

That year I met with a therapist several times. I also prayed. Psalm 118 was my daily focus: “I called on God from a narrow place; God answered from a wide expanse.” I hoped that God would help me open my heart in acceptance and love.

I thought of the story of the heartbroken father who came to the Baal Shem Tov for advice: “My son has turned his back on Judaism. What should I do?” The great Chasidic master replied, “Love him even more.”

I’m happy to add that I gave someone who knew this parent a few resources a couple of years ago when she was first struggling with her child’s transition. I hadn’t heard an update, & this one is about the best I could have hoped for.