Zip:
53209

I am participating in this project because not many of my neighbors know I am transgender. I am hoping I can use this as a way to get to know my neighbors better. My family knows but it took a long time for me to be received and accepted fully.

I hope people will see my participation in the Gay Neighbor campaign as a way to start a conversation with me. ‘Hey was that you I saw?' I hope they will want to have honest conversations with me about my struggle to accept myself.

I would like to see more employers offering jobs to gay and transgender people. While the law has some protections, it doesn't mean people's own bias doesn't keep them from hiring gay and transgender people who really want to work. I really want to work but people don't expect me to have a male name as my legal name and that may prevent me from getting a job. I continue to apply for work. I want to be able to support myself.

Please teach your children that all people are different and everyone deserves respect and to be treated fairly. I have been called ‘fag' had obscenities yelled at me and had people scream ‘hey that is a man.' It hurts me and frightens me for my safety.

I know many gay and transgender couples who have committed to a marriage but don't have the legal rights to care for their partners as family.

I am very excited to be a part of this project.