This shouldn’t have to be stated, but unfortunately it does. Transgender people are not a caricature. They are not a stereotype. They are not a political pawn. And they are not a threat to you or your values. They are human. Just. Like. You.
Imagine feeling homesick in your own body. Imagine having to fight for your God-given right to be who you are and be treated with dignity. Imagine walking into a restaurant with fear about whether you will be served. Imagine holding your pee as long as possible, or running home to use the bathroom, because you don’t know if you will be violently attacked for doing the extremely human function of relieving yourself. Imagine not being able to get lifesaving medical care because a doctor refuses to touch you. Imagine believing that if you live as your authentic self, you will never be able to realize your dreams.