This season you will hear the inspiring stories – in their own words – of Mariah Moore, Braxton Fleming, Dani Lalonders and Layshia Claredon. Though their stories are unique, they are united in how they rise above the status quo and pave a way for others in a world that often holds challenges and adversity.
Episode 1: House of Tulip
Moore wakes up every morning and asks herself, “What is it that I am going to do today to change someone’s life?” It’s that mindset and passion that lead her and a coalition of trans leaders to open the House of Tulip in New Orleans, a safe place for trans and gender non-conforming people that meet needs and creates community. Through House of Tulip, members of the community can receive housing, gender-affirming clothing, stability and a haven from the violence many face on the streets.
Episode 2: Stealth Bros & Co.
With the work ethic instilled in him by his parents, it is no surprise that Fleming found himself securing a deal on Shark Tank, allowing him to take his company from side hustle to life purpose.
Episode 3: ValiDate
Built by shared experiences of a team of queer people of color from around the world, ValiDate is a video game about 13 people of color navigating the realities of love and life. The game is an opportunity to tell these stories through truth and care, which creates a platform where people can feel seen. And Lalonders is already seeing the change: "With ValiDate’s success we are seeing more and more games that look like ValiDate – having people of color as the star, as the main character, as playable characters. It’s normalizing seeing people of color in these roles.”
Episode 4: Layshia Clarendon
Through their journey, Clarendon realized how difficult the process was for trans people who wanted to get gender affirming care. As a result, they created The Layshia Clarendon Foundation, which grants access to life affirming healthcare and wellness services for the trans community through education, advocacy and direct financial assistance. Clarendon said, “My story is never just about me. It starts there, but it always spreads. ... We just need to get more footsteps on the path.”
Achieving more together
Creating safe spaces, honoring authenticity and celebrating LGBTQ+ individuals shouldn't be reserved for one month a year. As allies, it is our responsibility to identify gaps, fill voids and work toward a greater tomorrow. One way to do this is to amplify their stories, voices and individuality. Let’s work together to remove bias and, foster an inclusive society where our LGBTQ+ members are celebrated – that is where change is truly made.
