Valley trangender community reacts to Caitlyn Jenner debut

“Call me Caitlyn,” with long locks and makeup Caitlyn Jenner made her big debut on the July cover of Vanity Fair. Formerly Bruce Jenner, the cover model gained support and opposition for her unveiled photos and behind the scenes video.

“It’s phenomenal. She’s beautiful. People over here are just like it’s a baby shower. They’re loving it and it’s terrific. And then over here I have ‘this is evil, they’re going to hell,'” said Thomi Clinton, president of the Transgender Community Coalition “Even the gay white men are struggling with it.”

Clinton said Jenner’s transition could transform awareness for transgender issues, including high rates of murder and suicides.

“She’s going to be working on activism, but when you transition you’re automatically an activist whether you like it or not. She’s in a better place of privilege to make some changes,” said Clinton.

For decades Jenner was known as an Olympic gold medalist and reality star.

“Bruce always had to tell a lie,” said Jenner.

Caitlyn Jenner took to Twitter Sunday.

“I’m so happy after such a long struggle to be living my true self. Welcome to the world Caitlyn. Can’t wait for you to get to know her/me.”

As Bruce Jenner has vanished, Clinton has concerns and high hopes for Caitlyn Jenner.

“I really do hope she’s safe. She’s advocating against violence. And predators don’t like that. So we need to be very supportive of her and not encourage people who have disorders to hurt another person.”>

The Coachella Valley’s transgender community will host its first “Trans-Pride Picnic” on June 28 at 1 p.m. at Ruth Hardy Park in Palm Springs to tackle teen-suicide issues.

Transgender advocates hope Jenner will make her way to the desert soon.