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As parents of queer kids, we want our children to live boldly and truthfully, to become their most authentic selves, not just accepted, but celebrated, for who they are. We want that same freedom and fullness of self-expression for every member of our families. So often trans and nonbinary people’s stories are told only through the lens of their struggles and challenges, including their political battles for legal rights, but trans and nonbinary people live rich and fulfilling lives full of joy and community too. Today In the Den, Sara sits down with special guest Joey Morelli, contributing author to Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People, to offer a window into the real lives, joys, and resilience of trans and nonbinary people—and the families who stand proudly beside them.

Special Guest: Jozeppi A. Morelli 

Jozeppi A. Morelli is an Indigenous transgender queer man who is a retired law enforcement officer/911 World Trade Center First Responder from New York City. He has been initiated into the Hopi Sand Clan since 2021. In his retirement, he has found a second career being a gender educator. Author and public speaker, Jozeppi is one of the authors in the new book and exhibit: Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People created by Peggy Gillespie of Family Diversity Projects and published by Skinner House Books. He has been promoting the Authentic Selves photo exhibit and book across the country on radio shows, podcasts, and at in-person events.

Links from the Show:

• Authentic Selves: https://bookshop.org/p/books/authentic-selves-celebrating-trans-and-nonbinary-people-and-their-families/18955703?ean=9781558968967&next=t
• Dance to Heal interview with Jozeppi: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMr8F6HIK8E 
• Article about Authentic Selves: https://www.uua.org/pressroom/press-releases/authentic-selves-highlights-joy 
• Join Mama Dragons today here: www.mamadragons.org 

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