Empowering Transgender and Nonbinary Individuals: A Conversation with He She Ze and We
He She Ze and We is on a mission to support transgender and nonbinary individuals by empowering their families, communities, and allies to create inclusive and life-saving environments. Shannon McKay, the Executive Director of He She Ze and We, shared insights into the organization's work.
The inspiration behind He She Ze and We came when Shannon realized there was a need for support and information within the Richmond community. She had to travel long distances to connect with other families facing similar challenges. This realization led to the founding of He She Ze and We, creating a network of support and education. The organization intertwines education, support, and advocacy in everything they do. They educate while supporting individuals and advocate for the needs of transgender and nonbinary people. This balanced approach helps families navigate the complex journey of supporting their loved ones.
He She Ze and We ensures that all parents, caregivers, and family members, regardless of their background, feel welcome and supported. Personal welcome calls and community agreements foster an inclusive, non-judgmental, and brave space for sharing and learning. Specialized meetings like "Just Us" and "Interfaith" address unique challenges faced by BIPOC and faith-based communities. He She Ze and We aims to get as many family members as possible into a support role quickly. They recognize that fear often hinders acceptance, especially when gender diversity challenges societal norms. Through education and support, they help families overcome these gaps and foster understanding and acceptance.
He She Ze and We understands that the emotional well-being of parents and caregivers is vital. Therefore, the organization provides numerous opportunities for family members to connect with others, whether through virtual meetings or in-person gatherings across various regions. They also address common misconceptions faced by parents and caregivers, including the belief that gender diversity is a phase.
When asked for an example of an impactful story that exemplifies the positive outcomes of the support and education provided by He She Ze and We, Shannon shared the story of when an 8-year-old trans boy and his older sister decided to choose He She Ze and We as their charity for the year. She explained, “This 8-year-old sent me a personal drawing, a check for $55 (written by their parent), and a note that said: Thank you for protecting trans kids like me!”
The organization collaborates with advocacy partner organizations to push for equal rights and support for transgender and nonbinary individuals. They provide professional development training to various institutions, helping create inclusive and welcoming environments. He She Ze and We adapts its approach to remain relevant and effective, especially in the face of recent challenges to transgender rights. They've increased their programming to meet the growing demand for support and education and regularly engage allies by showing them how to take meaningful action. They offer training sessions to businesses and schools, encouraging allies to treat transgender and nonbinary individuals the way they deserve to be treated— with dignity and respect everywhere.
He She Ze and We continues to make a significant impact in supporting transgender and nonbinary individuals and their families, fostering acceptance, and advocating for equal rights. The best ways to support the mission of He She Ze and We are by voting for candidates who protect transgender and nonbinary rights and through donations, which help the organization expand its grassroots work and reach more communities. To learn more and support their mission, visit their website at heshezewe.org and consider making a donation to their cause.