One has been living her life as she is since the 1980s, she's been out there and proud for going on 40 years. Never once have I seen her act afraid. She's an inspiration to many and she doesn't even know it. Total badass, all 6 foot 3 of her.

Another was not able to start living her life as she is until her 50s and she's out there being herself and it's just a very dangerous world for her here in West Michigan. She gets followed, she'll have cars do U-turns to come scream obscenities at her as she's pumping gas. She's had to hide in the clothes racks when being followed and threatened by angry men in department stores. She's ran to her car and locked the doors in a panic being chased multiple times. She's been chased by a man with a big knife. It's a daily fear for her and she says she'd rather die than to go back to living a lie.

It's important to show support, recognize bravery, and strive to make a safer world for people. We at DU see you and support you, you inspire us.