“I found confidence from community,” says Los Angeles-based photographer and writer Amos Mac (@amosmac). “When I was a younger person, I couldn’t anticipate what my life would look like, because I didn’t know what a trans experience was. I didn’t see myself reflected in the media. I didn’t know that there was a name for what I was feeling as a kid about my gender, so it was hard for me to visualize what adulthood would be.”
In 2009, Amos, along with Rocco Kayiatos (pictured), launched Original Plumbing, a magazine for trans stories, as told by trans men. By broadening the representation of the community, Amos instills confidence in others. “I continue to be humbled by the kind words I hear from people who tell me they’ve seen a little bit of themselves in my work, and how it’s made them feel less alone, or encouraged to live authentically.”
March 31 is International Trans Day of Visibility. Join others in celebrating by sharing your #KindComments — empowering comments that uplift you and others in the trans community.
Photo of @roccokatastrophe by @amosmac