Dylan Mulvaney: Advocator for Trans Rights
Dylan Mulvaney is a trans woman who started “Days of Girlhood,” a series on TikTok. Dylan stated that at first, they identified as a gay man, then a non-binary person, but then she finally found her true self as a woman who uses they/she pronouns. She also encourages others to be their authentic selves, the same way that her grandmother inspired her. She first started out only wanting to document her journey into womanhood for herself, but then they eventually started gaining followers and popularity. She now has about 10 million followers on TikTok and has received immense support with their transition.
One example of the content she creates is when she documented the Day 221 of her identifying as a girl when she went to the White House to advocate for the rights of people like her. Trying to represent her community the best they can is a courageous task, especially when it is in front of the president of the United States. Recently, politicians have been presenting many anti-LGBTQ bills throughout the U.S, so people are worried for themsleves and their loved ones’ safety and security. Worrying about waking up one day and seeing your rights being removed is something that so many people in this country have to face. Mulvaney described her intentions saying, “I’m ready to step up and show that trans people aren’t going anywhere and that trans kids deserve a fighting chance to be their true selves.” Also, some people don’t have the privilege to afford gender-affirming healthcare, which can make them feel like their true selves can’t be obtained. Even when picking up prescriptions, some workers ask trans people uncomfortable questions, especially when they deny the existence of trans people. Many conservative parents send their children to horrific conversion camps to “fix” them, leading to severe trauma. These types of camps unfairly make teenagers and children feel like they have done something wrong, and toxic environments like this have long lasting effects on teens’ mental health and future interactions.
Mulvaney’s platform on TikTok is a safe place where viewers feel comfortable expressing their feelings and can get the support they need, especially when times are tough. She is known for being “an icon for positivity and feminist for all,” wrote a Notre Dame student. Through their important advocacy work, other Notre Dame students have learned the importance of “respect[ing] people’s pronouns and to always ask.” Dylan Mulvaney strives for equality and hopes that all trans people get the respect they deserve. She encourages people to always show kindness and to stand up for trans rights.
