Watch This 13-Year-Old Transgender Teen's Powerful Coming-Out Speech
There was no stammering, no hesitation—just a clear-headed admission of his long-held truth.
“To all those struggling to embrace their true and authentic gender or sexuality, I want you to know that if no one else accepts you, I always will.”
Stressing that he's still the same person ("Whether you like that person or not," he joked), Tom urged his classmates to talk to their parents and families if they have any questions. He kindly asked that they not talk to their friends, succinctly telling the crowd, "Its not gossip-worthy."
Watch the video below.
Tom's sister Gil wrote a powerful Facebook message in which she states:
Last week, my 13 year old brother came out as trans to his school and community in a really moving naming ceremony and we were able to capture it on camera.
Seeing how much his words have inspired and touched the family and friends in his own network, Tom began to see that there was something about his speech that was universal and humanizing, something that could empower trans* and otherwise gender nonconforming folks while also conjuring empathy and understanding among allies.
Way to go, Tom!
