Coming Out Showers

I think coming out showers for trans people should be a thing.

Think about it. Cis people routinely have wedding showers and bar/bat mitzvahs. Trans people don’t always have these opportunities, at least not for their true genders. But what better way to show support and welcome them into the community of that true gender? These could be a rite of passage complete with gifts to help set them up for this new phase of their lives.

Now of course I need to stress here that not everyone will WANT a shower. And that should absolutely be respected. But for those that do want one, I can’t think of a more supportive and meaningful single gesture.

There should be cards too. Like “It’s a girl/boy/non-binary person!” but referring to someone who is not a baby. Happy things, because a person making the decision to live their lives as their true selves is something to be celebrated just as much as those other things we throw showers for.

Let’s spread the word and make this a thing for those who want it. Let’s celebrate people’s identities and welcome them into our communities as the people they are and help get them set up. Share this article if you agree!

Gowns for Grads

I can’t wait to write here about Gowns for Grads, because grad season is fast approaching. I actually just heard about this today, and I can’t pass up the opportunity to let you all know about it. I wish I had known about it sooner.
Something we don’t always stop to think about is the fact that many girls graduating from high school are from low-income families. What happens when it comes time to attend their graduation banquet when they can’t afford a dress, shoes, or a bag? A lot of girls unfortunately skip this major life event for lack of these things, and that’s just not cool with me. These girls worked really hard to graduate and they deserve to go! So what’s to be done?
Gowns for Grads was started just for this reason. They accept donations of gently used grad dresses, shoes, and bags, and donate them to these deserving young women so they have something to wear to their grad banquets. It’s a great cause and if you have an old grad dress or other formal gown of your own taking up space in your closet I highly suggest you consider making a donation. If you’re not in Winnipeg, try to find a similar program in your area because I’m sure this isn’t the only one like it. Now how’s THAT for fashion making you feel good?

For more information visit http://www.gownsforgrads.org/