As a minor politician and community activist I am a very public citizen and knew my transition could generate lots of heat or better, shed some light. I also knew I would be in the public spotlight to some degree and many of us know how we can suddenly have celebrity status, good or bad, as we come out. I was so surprised by how accepting and supporting the majority of people were/are that I rolled with it and saved myself lot's of time and further explanation.
No, it's not Mardi Gras or drag it's Tessa and I feel free. I also serve on national and local diversity and inclusion groups and get to do Transgender and LGBTQ 101 presentations. Educating, humanizing and helping the world become familiar with us is a big part of my very enjoyable life work in retirement.
