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I look forward to making a name for myself as an African American transgender artist.

At 14 I knew I was different. I didn’t know what transgender was. I dreamt of  myself as an older female. My family was religious and being transgender was strictly forbidden. Finding the courage within myself to fight for my truth, I decided to take a stand and distance myself from my family in order to communicate my seriousness. After a year and a half, I called my mom and dad, they were over the moon to hear from me. They said, “Come as you are, we love you.” Today, I recognize when I transitioned, my family also made a transition. Everyone’s journey is their own and I choose to make mine special. I enjoy music, cosmetology and traveling. I am originally from North Carolina and have lived in New York City and Florida. Living in California has really tested what I am made of. My favorite tattoo is my compass and the feather transforming into a bird. I look forward to making a name for myself as an African American transgender artist.

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Every month, a physical envelope arrives at your door, postmarked from San Quentin Village, California. Inside, you will find original artwork, writing, and recipes from real contributors, along with a personal letter from me, Diane Kahn, founder of Humans of San Quentin, about the people who made them. You read it. You keep it.

Every piece comes from someone serving a sentence. Every piece reminds you they are so much more than that.

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