We are not what other people say we are. We are who we know ourselves to be, and we are what we love. That's okay.

Beyoncé means so much to me. Throughout my transition, Beyoncé has been there as a style icon, an example of excellence, of beauty, of vulnerability. She's shared so much of herself, and it's inspiring.

When people have points of reference that are humanizing, that demystifies difference.

Healthcare for trans women is a necessity. It is not elective. It is not cosmetic. It is life saving.

It is revolutionary for any trans person to choose to be seen and visible in a world that tells us we should not exist.

I believe that when we love someone, we respect them, and we listen to them; we feel that their voice matters. And- we let them dictate the terms of who they are and what their story is.

My third grade teacher called my mother and said, 'Ms. Cox, your son is going to end up in New Orleans in a dress if we don't get him into therapy.' And wouldn't you know, just last week I spoke at Tulane University, and I wore a lovely green and black dress.