Trans Lives – A Poem

Trans Lives – A Poem

Trans lives begin with names assigned, yet our souls within are differently inclined; through dysphoria’s depths, our battles rage, our true self sought, a new path staged.

With judging eyes, the world outside inflicts wounds and shouts their lies, our struggles we face with grace and might, to live as our true self in truth…. and light.

In hushed reverence, we gather here, hearts heavy with sorrow and filled with fear for trans folk in the United States, a future so bleak, we can’t contemplate.

Sixteen years young, with dreams to pursue, a life full of promise, now shattered in view – trans and brave, Brianna dared to be free…. but hate’s dark hand… stole her destiny.

At the cliff’s edge, Alice sought release, a final act to find inner peace. The pain was too much for her to bear; her spirit sought the ocean’s stare.

A mother’s grief, a father’s pain, a family broken by endless rain – their love remains, a guiding star, in shadows deep, no matter how far.

We weep for the lost, their lives so brief, cut down by violence or by grief. For trans lives lost, too soon, too fast… their stories remembered, but their futures passed.

But in this darkness, hope remains to challenge the system, and ease the pains – to build a world, where all are free to live in love… and dignity.

May memories be a guiding light… fighting for justice to make things right – that we will stand united, and strong, until the day …..we right………….. the wrongs.

Steph Richards,
In memory of Brianna Ghey, Alice Litman and all the other trans people who have lost their lives because of transphobia.