Spreading Diversity

{ Jai Santora }

I am the co-founder and president of Central MA Trans Visibility, a new nonprofit in Worcester. Our mission is to increase the visibility of the trans community through public initiatives.

         Our main project is the Trans Visibility/Remembrance Garden at Sever St Park, which is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the trans community. We are actively searching for individuals interested in serving as board members and volunteers. After I came out as a trans woman business owner, more opportunities started coming my way, ultimately leading me to this role. I initially feared that coming out would negatively impact my life and my two children, but living authentically has allowed me to reach my full potential.

         Living in a small town limits your options. There are only a few convenience stores, a couple of restaurants, and limited leisure activities. It’s easy to see why many people end up doing the same things in the same places. Without exposure to what exists in other towns, people develop similar viewpoints, creating a strong sense of community

and belonging. While this can be positive to some extent, it doesn’t allow for much diversity.

         Imagine someone from out of town moving in and sharing their experiences with the community. This exchange of ideas sparks curiosity, generates new possibilities, and promotes diversity. As different experiences are shared, unfamiliar concepts become more accepted, emphasizing the importance of visibility and diversity to achieve inclusivity. This is what visibility and spreading diversity are about, and it’s the only way to effectively achieve inclusivity in places where it doesn’t exist.

         After coming out and living authentically, I was amazed at how many doors and opportunities opened for me. It’s impossible to be at our best while living in the shadows. These opportunities have allowed me to share my unique background with individuals I never would have been able to connect with before. Additionally, my new experiences have enabled me to introduce new perspectives on queer culture to people I knew previously, who had never been exposed to it. This has been especially

meaningful for me, as it has allowed me to bridge the gap with my conservative biker family.

         I initially thought that they would reject me or potentially do something to me much worse. However, they chose to support me even more. It was awkward for all of us at first, but I was determined not to let fear keep me away or change who I was around them. This led to some thought-provoking conversations. I am open to discussing politics, religion, gender, and sexual orientation with them. I listen to their beliefs and share mine as well. While we don’t always agree, these discussions help us understand each other better.

         Recently, I brought two openly gay friends to a gathering, and we all had a great time. Towards the end of the night, I asked a close friend, “Wouldn’t tonight have been different for my friends if I hadn’t walked in with them and asked you all to welcome them on my behalf? And if someone like me had come here before you knew me, it would’ve been different too, right? You wouldn’t have accepted a trans woman into your circle!” He paused, surprised by my straightforward question, and replied, “You’re right! It would’ve been different! If we didn’t know you as well as we do now, we probably wouldn’t have given you or your friends a chance.”

         When I express my true self, I’m able to share my unique experiences and promote acceptance in new places. Although there are many places I haven’t been, others may have been there. That’s why everyone needs to have the courage to live authentically! This will open doors to new possibilities and spread the message of inclusivity, opening up people’s hearts and minds. Research shows that about 58% of Americans do not personally know a transgender person, and individuals are twice as likely to support transgender rights after knowing someone who is gender nonconforming. By being visible and coming out, you can change these statistics and gain support for equality.

         I decided to co-found Central MA Trans Visibility for several reasons. I understand that running a nonprofit organization is challenging, but I encourage anyone capable to consider doing so. Our voices are being overshadowed by the hate that is prevalent in the media. By establishing this nonprofit, I can garner support from individuals and communities that well-established organizations might not be able to reach. I hope that if you decide to start your nonprofit, you will also find this to be true.

         While there are already many well-established organizations in this city and throughout the state, none of them have your unique background. They won’t approach things the same way you or I would. Currently, numerous companies are seeking ways to support local organizations. Competition occurs at the bottom, but collaboration happens at the top. Whether you decide to start your passion project or are just looking to get more involved, consider finding an organization that aligns with your passions and inquire about ways to contribute. Regardless, it’s crucial to ensure that our voices are heard and that the concept of diversity is promoted and spread in every corner we inhabit.