Though the first weeks of Donald Trump’s presidency have looked bleak for trans people, one trans man on TikTok is reminding the younger trans community never to lose hope.
The viral TikTok, which has garnered nearly 200,000 likes, sees an older man in a T-shirt talking to his camera.
“Hi, my name is Justin,” he begins. “I’m 62 years old. I’m a trans man, and I began my journey of transition in 1984, so going on 41 years. 41 years that I have lived as me. It’s been more than I could have ever imagined.”
Justin went on to describe his life, painting a picture of what young trans folks’ futures might look like. “At this point in my life, I’m married to the most amazing woman. We’re going on 14 years. I’m the proud ‘pawpaw’ of 12 four-legged dogs,” he shared. “And I do own a company, and I’ve actually been working for myself for 42 years. I had the opportunity to do that, so I think I had it a lot easier in a lot of ways than a lot of my trans siblings.”
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That’s when Justin addressed the current cultural climate, and how he thinks trans folks can get through it. “There’s been adversity along the way — we’re humans; we live in this world — but nothing ever compared to this,” he said. “And to all my young trans siblings, be very kind and gentle and loving to yourselves, and listen to people’s advice and wisdom, but don’t listen to who they think you ought to be. You listen to yourself. You follow your way. It’s your journey. It’s your journey.”
Folks in Justin’s comments section shared an outpouring of support for his message and for simply being himself.
“elder queer representation is so phenomenal,” one commenter wrote. “thank you for being you.”
“the younger generations seeing you not just live authentically, but THRIVE while living is SO important!” shared another. “I wish you happiness and courage to continue to inspire others. 🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈”
Several young trans people left comments of their own, saying how Justin inspired and comforted them. “you are giving so many trans young people hope (including me). WE LOVE YOU!!!!! 🏳️⚧️💗” one commenter wrote.
“I’m getting top surgery in 3 weeks and I really needed to see an older trans man to know it’s gonna be okay 💕” expressed another. Even in dark times, seeing people like Justin not just surviving but thriving can make all the difference.
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