Got this today from TLC: Tears streamed down 15-year old Devon Marchant's face as she peeled back the wrapping paper to reveal the documentation proving that both her name and gender had been legally changed to reflect her gender identity. "It's the best Christmas present I've ever received," Devon said as she embraced her mom, Laurie.
Devon was a sophomore in high school at the time. Laurie had been in contact with Transgender Law Center for several weeks prior, getting everything in order so that Devon could finally be recognized legally as her authentic self.
Like many people, the Marchants' first point of contact with Transgender Law Center was our legal helpline. And, through our Helpline in the past year, TLC has provided legal information or representation to 2,365 community members - an increase of nearly 60% from the prior year. Many of our thousands of calls come from parents and youth facing severe discrimination in public schools.
"One day, when I picked Devon up from school, I noticed she wasn't her typically bouncy, cheery self," Laurie recalled. She went on, "Devon was sobbing and I panicked." When asked what was wrong, Devon responded through tears, "Mommy I'm a girl, and I can't be with the other girls at school. I can't do this anymore."
The two of them were recently interviewed by Katie Couric
LINK TO INTERVIEW:
http://transgenderlawcenter.org/supportouryouthto educate the public on the lives of transgender people. On the show, Devon talked about what it was like growing up transgender, the struggles she had as a young child, and the triumphs she later achieved. Hailing from Northern California, Laurie and Devon were so grateful and inspired by their experience with TLC they began attending our Advocacy Day in Sacramento to help change laws and policies impacting families like theirs. And, the dynamic duo has joined Transgender Law Center and other families to speak out about the importance of California's School Success and Opportunity Act.
In high school, Devon had a magnificent fresh start. She lived as her authentic self, excelled in academics and dance, and was voted Junior Class Homecoming Princess. But not every family is so fortunate. That's why Devon is sharing her story.
