When our forefathers assembled to write, The Declaration Of Independence and The Constitution, they did so with reason and conviction. They were inclusive and clear when they declared society as 'mankind and we the people'. I am one of many people of those people for who it is evident that it is my inalienable right, responsibility and obligation not just to declare and accept but as it is mine it is also yours to own our civil liberties. I wage no war and ask no permissions, I graciously accept my gift of life and choice from God Himself to live as He created me as I was born. I peacefully defend unto death that which already belongs to me; life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Transgender is not makeup or dress up, it’s a war that rages within every breath, every step, every thought, every cell, and every heartbeat of the person who dares to allow this gender revelation to be uncovered and then to peel back the layers that reveal the truth about their identity. This is just the beginning what follows is a process of transition that is filled with immense pain and hate as much as there is joy and peace throughout.

-Petra Maricela Thompson Violetarojo