Coachella Valley celebrates its first Trans-Pride Day
As many people celebrate marriage equality some members of the transgender community feel more progress needs to be made.
In conjunction with what many people say is a step in the right direction, community members celebrated the first trans-pride day in the Coachella Valley.
By the time Parker Jewell was 12 years old, she didn’t feel right in her body.
“Pretty much going into puberty, from the age of 12 onwards, was not feeling good at all,” Jewell said.
But after coming out a few months ago, Jewell is now ready to begin her journey to become a woman.
“I’ve been looking forward to hormones for a really long time and so blockers is a big step and it’s just the beginning for me really,” Jewell said.
Jewell said without family, her transition journey would not be possible
“It’s your child and it’s not something they decide to do. And it’s not like they’re turning to drugs or something criminal, it’s just who they are,” said Kyle Jewell, Parker’s father.
While Jewell is fortunate to have such supportive parents, others in the transgender community aren’t as lucky.
After hearing from numerous people who struggle with their gender identity, Thomi Clinton decided to create the first trans-pride day celebration in the valley.
“So I think it’s important that we have an event where the younger generation can meet adults and peers and see that they can survive and maybe bring some awareness and public education to parents,” Clinton said.
Representatives from cities across the valley united in support of the annual day of celebration.
“Today is about pride and helping people embrace their nature and not be afraid to tell the community who they are,” Palm Springs Mayor pro tempore Paul Lewin said.
“Everyone needs to be honored and respected for who they are,” Cathedral City Mayor pro tempore Greg Pettis said.
Honor and respect are things Jewell is grateful for as she continues her journey.
“I think I’ll just feel a lot happier with myself and proud I guess,” Jewell said.
A feeling trans-pride day organizers hope everyone has the chance to experience.
