I didn’t expect to come out. As a mother of three with a fantastic husband, coming out wasn’t in the cards. And then, I had to. So did my husband. My whole family, actually. We all came out. We had to for my oldest daughter. We came out as an inclusive family.

What it feels like to be transgender is to be yourself in your own unique way. That’s how my daughter puts it, and I cannot be more proud of her for the simple act of being herself. It isn’t easy, although it really should be.

Equality Texas works very hard to make it easier for LGBTQ Texans to be themselves, live their authentic lives, and have full equality in hearts, minds, and all aspects of the law.

This should be easy, and I want to build a state where it is. I want parents to know that being an inclusive family is the only option and help them be supportive. I want schools to know that it is their job to be inclusive and help them to do it. I want businesses to know that inclusivity is great for growth and teach them how. I want my children to grow up comfortable and confident in themselves and enter an adult world totally free to be themselves.

I want that for you, too. Join us, and help us.

As the parent of a trans youth, I know all too well how overwhelming it can be to be your child’s best advocate in the state of Texas. It is simply too much to take on alone at times. Families across the state desperately need continued support. As a mama bear, I ask you to please consider giving the gift of equality this holiday season. Your generosity will be deeply appreciated by many.

You can support the work of Equality Texas Foundation with a tax-deductible gift right now. A generous foundation is matching gifts through the end of the year, up to $70,000, so your gift goes twice as far.

In solidarity,

Rachel Gonzales
Education and Resource Coordinator
Equality Texas Foundation

PS You can also support our political advocacy by contributing HERE or by getting your Merry Merry Martini Mixer or Love Equality Tickets!