MassEquality in partnership with Family Diversity Projects unveiled the powerful photo-text exhibit “Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and their Families” yesterday at the Massachusetts State House. The show will only be on display to legislators, staff and the public through tomorrow, April 10.

“Authentic Selves” is a nationally recognized exhibit that uses portraits and personal narratives to highlight the lived experiences of transgender and nonbinary individuals and their families. By bringing these stories directly into the State House, MassEquality and Family Diversity Projects aim to foster understanding, empathy, and informed policymaking around LGBTQ+ issues.

Peggy Gillespie, executive director of Family Diversity Projects, said of the exhibit, “I created ‘Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and their Families’ when the current president was first elected and began demonizing trans people—including banning them from military service—fueling a wave of fear, misinformation, and cruelty that is escalating in his second administration. This exhibit brings real lives into the State House, schools, houses of worship, colleges and libraries showing that understanding can replace fear—and that respect, love, and belonging are always possible.

Trans lives are not up for debate. ‘Authentic Selves’ brings their stories into the State House and demands that truth and humanity, not lies and fear, guide policy.

“Bringing ‘Authentic Selves’ into the State House is about ensuring that the lived experiences of transgender and nonbinary people are seen, heard and valued where decisions are made. At a time when LGBTQ+ rights are under increasing scrutiny across the country, this partnership creates a powerful opportunity for lawmakers and the public alike to connect with real stories, deepen understanding and reaffirm Massachusetts’ commitment to dignity, equity and inclusion for all,” said Tanya Neslusan, executive director of Mass Equality.

This exhibit is also part of an ongoing partnership between MassEquality and Family Diversity Projects to bring Authentic Selves to communities across the Commonwealth. By expanding access to these stories in schools, libraries, and community spaces, we’re helping to foster empathy and inclusion statewide. Organizations interested in hosting the exhibit are encouraged to contact MassEquality to learn more and get involved.”

The exhibit will be open to legislators, staff and the public for viewing following the launch event through April 10 on the fourth floor of the statehouse. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the stories and reflect on the importance of visibility and inclusion for transgender and nonbinary communities across Massachusetts.

— from a MassEquality press release

More: massequality.org