Tag Archives: black

From Christendom to Freedom: Journey-Making with a Black Transgender Elder

Are You Looking For Your Freedom?

Click the image to buy the book!

Jonathon Thunderword describes his journey to mental, spiritual and religious freedom in his beautiful and revealing book. Jonathon’s book is short and to the point and reflects the man himself.

I first saw Jonathon on a Friday night at a synagogue. Unknown to both of us, this was to be a night unlike any other. It was the first time I attended a Jewish service. I had no interest in religion but I couldn’t deny the grounded sensation I felt during the service. I returned to the synagogue the next day and Jonathon was there, too.

In hindsight, I can see that on that night I experienced a freedom that I, as a black trans person, had never felt anywhere in a shared public space: Community. Although I had no interest or trust in organized religions, I had to find out more about Judaism. Judaism taught me how to question everything. Our questions are more precious than the answers. In my opinion, questions propel humanity to expand our experience in unexpected and positive ways.

I didn’t expect to find myself on a journey towards freedom. Hadn’t my American slave ancestors done that for me? No. Freedom of body, mind and spirit is a pursuit for each individual. In my experience, the pursuit of freedom is the greatest pursuit and love of all.

With Jonathon’s book you will start asking yourself questions that can lead you to your freedom from the expectations of others, and into the expectation of yourself in harmony and love with all life.

-Leo

The first (known) transgender person to testify before the US Senate becomes head of National Gay & Lesbian Task Force civil rights division.

Kylar Broadus Senate ENDA hearing

Kylar Broadus testifies before US Senate on the necessity of ENDA legislation to secure civil rights for trans* citizens.

Kylar Broadus, the founder of the first national civil rights organization for trans* people of color,  Trans People of Color Coalition, was named chief of the Transgender Civil Rights Project of the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force.  The Transgender Civil Rights Project will provide strategic assistance to US groups involved in creating pro-trans policy and laws.

–Leo