Diversity Rules Magazine

7 Diversity Rules Magazine March 2015 sion to be ourselves. We are simply giving the cour- tesy of sharing our truths. If we are choosing to share this information with you, it's because we love you, and we trust that you are a safe person who will not judge us. Occasionally, it does happen though. Some of us are okay with it, we get it, and we understand that you may need time and space while you sort out your feelings. But some of us also have a hard time with being rejected. It's a change and a process for everyone involved. Dispelling these misconceptions and stereotypes is just a matter of educating the public and including the transgender community in our everyday lives. Obviously the media plays an important role in por- traying positive images of transgender people. Hiring transgender actors and models who fall along the en- tire spectrum of gender and color, and who aren't all handsome and beautiful or flawless, is helpful. We are starting to become more visible on television, movies and in magazines – why not start with the full truth of who we are? True beauty shines through from the in- side. Tell our stories from our perspective – we know our stories best. Get us involved. To my transgender family – come out; become involved in getting our stories out there without shame or fear. JRK: What are some of the most important things we can tell our youth about their individuality? What can be done to encourage them to embrace it and be proud of who they are despite a society that sometimes degrades our individuality and creates disrespect and in many cases causes physical harm to those who are different? TJ: To ALL our youth - You matter. Every single one of you matter. You are all important. And you are all enough, just the way you are. ere is no need to compare you to anyone else. You are here to live YOUR life – that is your job. And nobody can do it better than you can! Society will continue to degrade our individuality, no matter who we are or what we do. We have a choice to believe them or to believe in ourselves. We must choose to believe in ourselves, and to stand up for ourselves, speak for ourselves. In time, truth will pre- vail. JRK: Do you have any parting thoughts you wish to relay to Diversity Rules readers? TJ: Get up right now and go to a mirror. Look your- self in the eyes and tell yourself out loud, "I matter. Who I am and why I am here is important. I am a good person. I am enough." Now finish reading Diversity Rules and then go cre- ate something. ;) I love you. ank you, Diversity Rules, for this opportunity. Much love & respect for the work that you do. Support the Indie Gay Press Support Diversity Rules Magazine! Subscribe/Advertise Today! www.diversityrulesmagazine.com Diversity Rules Magazine is now also available in the I-tunes and Android Stores (Google Play)! Check out Diversity Rules Maga- zine on Magzter.com Diversity Rules Magazine is always looking for new writ- ers with a uniquely interesting perspective. If you would like to contribute content please contact the editor using the contact information on page two.

• Cover