While the number of LGBT characters in mainstream comics has been steadily growing, Marvel and DC Comics still fall short when it comes to queer writers, artists and other creators.

But the industry just took a big step forward when DC Comics writer Lilah Sturges came out as trans in a Facebook post shortly before New Year's.

Sturges is best known for Jack of Fables, which she co-wrote with Fables creator Bill Willingham. She's also written for Justice Society of America, House of Mystery, Blue Beetle and wrote Thor: Season One. She is also the author of novels Midwinter, The Office of Shadows, and Beneath the Skin and Other Stories., and is currently working on a new video game.

She revealed she began transitioning several months ago and is now living openly as female. "My new name is Lilah, and I'd prefer that you call me by that name from now on, and use feminine pronouns when referring to me."

But Sturges made it clear she doesn't want people who know her from her work to feel uncomfortable.

"Please don't avoid talking to me because you're afraid of making a mistake. If you accidentally call me 'Matt' or 'Matthew' or refer to me as 'he' or 'him,' it's NOT A BIG DEAL. I accidentally 'he/him myself' sometimes! You don't need to fall over yourself apologizing."

While mainly personal, the post also touched on current events.

"As I'm sure you know, the presence of trans women in bathrooms has been made into a huge deal, and I don't like getting yelled at, especially when I really have to pee," she writes. If you're one of my queer friends, I'm really interested in LGBT advocacy and would love to know about projects, organizations, etc. that could benefit from my time or skills. Let's queer it up!"

Sturges joins a small but growing number of trans comics creators, including Sophie Campbell (Jem and the Holograms), Rachel Pollack (Doom Patrol) and Magdalene Visaggio (Kim & Kim).

Response from her peers has been overwhelmingly welcoming.

"I am happy for you and in awe of your courage," wrote gay writer Marc Andreyko, whose graphic novel honoring the victims of the Pulse massacre is on the NYT best-seller list, "You sure picked a helluva year to do this, though!" Others offering support included Vertigo editor Jamie S. Rich, Blue Beetle scribe Cully Hamner and industry superstar Greg Pak (Batman/Superman, The Totally Awesome Hulk). DC editor Ellie Pyle has promised to get Lilah’s credits updated with her proper name.

"It's been a challenging path to walk," Sturges admitted in her post. "One of the most difficult things about it has been keeping silent. What a relief to finally let go of that silence."

Thank you, Lilah, for your courage in opening up. May it encourage others to feel comfortable sharing their truth, as well.

h/t: Bleeding Cool