In the News

For the first 40 years of their life, Texas resident Kelly Fleming spent a portion of most years in a deep depression. As an adult, Fleming—who uses they/them pronouns and who asked to use a pseudonym to protect their safety—would shave their face in the shower with the lights off so neither they nor their wife would have to confront the reality of their body.

In 2021, 48% of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) teens, ages 13-17 and 34% of LGBTQ young adults, ages 18-24, considered suicide, according to the Trevor Project’s latest survey. The increase disclosed Wednesday in the National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health 2021 is the third consecutive year rates of suicidal ideation have increased among LGBTQ youth (ages 13-24). Last year’s study found that 40% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in 2020. The percentage of LGBTQ youth who seriously considered attempting suicide increased in 2021 to 42%, including more than half of transgender and nonbinary youth.

Ela Melo, the lead singer for the popular alternative/indie rock band Rainbow Kitten Surprise, revealed she has found her “authentic self” in coming out as transgender. She made the announcement on Wednesday, March 30 — about a week before the band hits the road for a highly-anticipated tour. “Over the past couple of years, I’ve been doing some major soul searching in the pursuit of my authentic self,” Melo said on Instagram. “I’m happy to share with you that I am trans. My pronouns are she/her. I’m grateful to be able to express who I truly am and share in this moment with you.”

At an age where puberty and social awkwardness are at an all time high, school already presents a challenge in itself. For students undergoing, or who have undergone, gender transition, this hyper-awareness only becomes heightened. Having to use the restroom not only forces them to declare a gender identity, but it also forces them to do so in front of teenagers.