TRANS JOY BOISE

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In this powerful episode of Trans Joy Boise, Bonnie Violet (trans femme, genderqueer, spiritual drag artist, and digital chaplain) and Pacey (transmasc, nonbinary, mental health & recovery advocate) sit down with Elliot, a local activist and chair of the Idaho chapter of Pink Pistols—a queer-centric, ally-friendly gun club focused on firearm safety, self-defense, and community protection.

We dive into the history of LGBTQ2SIA+ activism in Idaho, the importance of showing up for legislative hearings, and the growing need for self-defense education in today’s political climate. Elliot shares his experiences with direct action, advocating for trans rights, and building a safer, more empowered queer community.

🔥 Topics Covered:
 ✅ The history & mission of the Pink Pistols 🏳️‍🌈🔫
✅ Why LGBTQ+ self-defense education is more important than ever
✅ Idaho’s legislative battles & the fight for trans rights
✅ How to get involved in activism & make your voice heard
✅ Practical de-escalation & safety strategies for queer folks

🎧 Tune in and join the conversation! Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to support trans joy and resilience.

Learn more about the pink pistols at https://www.pinkpistols.com, find on Facebook at Treasure Valley Pink Pistols.

#TransJoy #LGBTQSelfDefense #TransRights #PinkPistols #QueerActivism #IdahoPolitics #TransSafety #GunRights #SelfDefense #LGBTQ2SIA

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• Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: 
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Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

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Trans Joy Boise with Pacey & Bonnie Violet
A Trans & Nonbinary Podcast based out of Boise Idaho

This special event brought together community, conversation, and deep reflection as we welcomed Michael and Angie Devitt, authors of Finding Eve: Raising a Transgender Teen in Idaho.

In a state where trans lives are often under attack, this evening was a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to parent with love and advocacy. Michael and Angie shared their story of raising their daughter Eve, offering a heartfelt look at what it means to show up for your child—fully, loudly, and unapologetically.

After the book reading, we sat down for a live recording of the Trans Joy Boise Podcast to dive deeper into their journey, the impact of anti-trans legislation, and what real allyship looks like.

💜 Whether you're a parent, ally, or member of the trans community, this conversation is one we all need to hear.

🎥 Watch, listen, and let this be a reminder: trans kids deserve love, safety, and support—and so do their families.

Celebrating, uplifting, and empowering Idaho's trans and nonbinary community

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise #idaho

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💌 Join the conversation!

• Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: 
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• Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.

Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

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In this episode, we sit down with Blake Hunter (they/them), a non-binary journalist and writer in Boise, to talk about what it means to be visibly trans in Idaho. From writing the Hey Boise newsletter for City Cast Boise to founding a local literary press, Blake shares their journey of storytelling, activism, and survival. We dive into the importance of trans visibility, the power of being known beyond representation, and the burnout that comes from constant advocacy.

Plus, we get real about navigating anger, finding joy in community, and what it means to take up space in a world that often wants us invisible. If you’re trans, questioning, or an ally looking to understand more about the realities of trans life in conservative spaces, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now & subscribe!
📍 Timestamps:
00:00 Intro & Meeting Blake
05:12 Trans Journalism & Representation
12:45 The Power of Being Known vs. Just Visible
20:30 Burnout, Mental Health & Navigating Rest
30:15 Community, Connection & Taking Up Space
45:00 Final Thoughts & Resources

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on trans joy, activism, and community!

Support the show

💌 Join the conversation!

• Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: 
• Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.
• Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.

Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

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Laughter is resistance, and comedy is survival! 🎭✨ In this episode of TransJoy Boise, hosts Bonnie Violet (trans femme, genderqueer, spiritual drag artist & digital chaplain) and Pacey (trans masc, non-binary mental health & recovery advocate) welcome stand-up comedian and comedy producer Krystal Moore! 🎤

Together, they dive into the power of humor in navigating trans joy, mental health, and activism—especially in challenging times. How can comedy break down barriers, foster resilience, and even reach those who might not listen otherwise? 🤔 Plus, we talk dark humor, the vulnerability of laughter, and why comedy is the ultimate way to shake off the heaviness of the world.

+ Queer Comedy Writing Workshop & Showcase

Join us for an exciting opportunity to explore the power of comedy as a tool for healing, connection, and advocacy. Whether you want to perform on stage or simply learn more about comedic storytelling, this workshop welcomes all skill levels.

• Workshop Focus: Learn how to craft jokes, shape your personal experiences into comedic storytelling, and find the balance between humor and vulnerability.
• Showcase Option: Participants can choose to perform in a live comedy showcase or attend just to learn and grow.
• Why Comedy? Humor has the power to build bridges, challenge perspectives, and create spaces for connection. Through laughter, we can process our experiences, shift narratives, and foster greater understanding—especially for trans, non-binary, and queer voices.
• A Space for Community: This workshop is about more than just comedy—it's about supporting one another, processing our shared and unique experiences, and amplifying trans and queer joy.

You don’t have to be a performer to participate—just come with an open mind and a willingness to explore storytelling in a new way. Whether you take the mic or not, your presence matters.

💬 What’s the last thing that made you laugh out loud? Drop it in the comments!

#TransJoy #LGBTQ2SIA #ComedyPodcast #StandUpComedy #QueerPodcast #TransLives #MentalHealth #ComedyHealing #TransCommunity

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Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

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HIV is NOT a crime! In this powerful episode of Trans Joy Boise, we sit down with Kerry Thomas, a passionate HIV decriminalization strategist, to discuss his personal experience with HIV criminalization, the impact of outdated laws, and why HIV Is Not a Crime Awareness Day (Feb 28) is more crucial than ever.

Kerry shares his journey of serving 15 years in prison for non-disclosure, the racial and LGBTQ2SIA+ disparities in HIV-related prosecutions, and how organizations like the Sero Project are leading the charge to modernize unjust HIV laws.

We also break down the history of HIV criminalization, the medical advancements proving that Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U), and how these laws actually discourage people from getting tested and treated.

📢 Join the fight to end HIV criminalization! Learn more at seroproject.com
🎧 Subscribe for more stories of trans joy, resilience, and advocacy!

💬 What are your thoughts on HIV criminalization? Drop a comment below!

#HIVIsNotACrime #HIVCriminalization #UequalsU #TransJoyBoise #HIVAware #HIVStigma #LGBTQ2SIA #HIVAdvocacy #KerryThomas #HIVDecriminalization #HIVJustice #HIVLawReform

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💌 Join the conversation!

• Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: 
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• Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.

Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

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Idaho lawmakers are once again targeting drag and the LGBTQ2SIA+ community with harmful legislation. In this episode of Trans Joy Boise, we’re joined by Jenna Damron, LGBTQ Organizer at ACLU Idaho, to break down the latest anti-drag bill, the misinformation fueling it, and what we can do to fight back.

🏳️‍⚧️ Topics Covered:
✨ The history of Idaho’s attacks on drag & queer expression
🔥 How doctored videos and right-wing narratives fuel anti-LGBTQ2SIA+ bills
⚖️ The legal battle against Idaho Family Policy Center
💡 What YOU can do to support drag artists and trans joy

📢 Take action by having conversations, spreading awareness, and standing up against these harmful bills. Trans joy is unstoppable!

🎧 Subscribe for more bold voices, real experiences, and uplifting trans stories. New episodes every Thursday. 

#TransJoyBoise #DragUnderAttack #LGBTQRights #ACLU #DragIsNotACrime #TransRights #IdahoLegislation #ProtectTransLives

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💌 Join the conversation!

• Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: 
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• Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.

Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

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In this powerful episode of Trans Joy Boise, we welcome Nikson Mathews—genderqueer, transmasculine advocate, State Chair for the Idaho Democratic Queer Caucus, and policy expert at Add the Words Idaho. Nikson shares insights on the fight against anti-trans legislation, the importance of representation in politics, and how to stay resilient in the face of erasure.

We dive into:
🔥 The growing wave of anti-LGBTQ2SIA+ bills in Idaho & beyond
🏳️‍⚧️ The reality of lobbying for trans rights in conservative spaces
🩺 The dangers of healthcare discrimination & the Medical Defense Act
🗳️ The SAVE Act & threats to voting rights for trans & non-binary people
💜 Finding joy & community amid political challenges

This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about trans rights, advocacy, and staying hopeful in tough times. Subscribe, share, and help spread trans joy!

#TransJoy #LGBTQ2SIA+ #TransRights #IdahoPolitics #QueerAdvocacy #TransLegislation #LGBTQPodcast #QueerCommunity

= = = = = = 

Running for Office as a Trans Man in Idaho: Nikson Mathews' Journey

Nikson Mathews, a transmasculine activist, ran in the Democratic primary for Idaho’s District 16, a historically blue district that has seen groundbreaking LGBTQ2SIA+ representation. Motivated by watching HB-71 strip away gender-affirming care for youth, Nikson stepped into politics to push for real change.

Despite facing discrimination—even from fellow Democrats—he ran an impactful campaign, coming in second out of four candidates in a highly competitive race. He built strong networks, engaged in political advocacy, and leveraged his privilege as a white trans man to navigate spaces where many queer people face barriers.

His campaign underscored the dire need for trans representation in Idaho politics. While Idaho remains a challenging place for trans people, Nikson and others are fighting for a future where no one has to leave their home state just to live authentically.

Can Boise become a sanctuary city for trans people? What can local governments do to protect LGBTQ2SIA+ rights in hostile political climates? These are the critical questions Nikson and other advocates continue to explore.

Stay informed and engaged in the fight for trans rights in Idaho!

https://www.acluidaho.org/en/aclu-idaho-legislative-bill-tracker

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💌 Join the conversation!

• Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: 
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• Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.

Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

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In this episode of Trans Joy Boise, Bonnie Violet and Pacey dive into the 50 State Rally, a nationwide movement against Project 2025 and the rise of authoritarian policies threatening marginalized communities. Fresh from the rally, they share firsthand experiences, reflections on the diverse voices in attendance, and the urgent need for collective action. They discuss the escalating risks for trans folks, immigrants, and other vulnerable populations, the dangers of ICE profiling, and how we can prepare and protect ourselves. Plus, they highlight key takeaways from Poder’s press conference and local activism efforts. Tune in to learn, resist, and build solidarity—because the fight isn’t over. 💙✨ #TransJoyBoise #Project2025 #QueerResistance #TransRightsAreHumanRights

Podcasts mentioned in this episode

City Cast Boise - What Boiseans need to Know about ICE Raids

Brown Sound - Protect Idaho Immigrants with Poder of Idaho

After reflections from the powerful march, we discuss the importance of finding support, and highlight upcoming community events that are creating space for joy in the face of oppression. From Trans Joy Boise’s social support groups to an upcoming trans wedding and the Goodbye Love variety show, we explore how we can continue to show up, fight back, and hold space for love and resilience.

🔥 Join the Movement: Attend local events, build support groups, and find ways to stay connected.

💜 Need Support? You are not alone. Seek out community, resources, and help when needed.

📍 Boise Events:

• Exotica Drag & Burlesque Show – A POC-centered variety show at the Balcony Club
• Goodbye Love: A Post-Valentine’s Variety Show – February 15, supporting Trans Joy Boise
• A Community-Led Trans Wedding – February 22, open to all

✨ Let’s keep fighting, celebrating, and lifting each other up. ✨

#TransJoy #Resist #LGBTQ2SIA+ #Community #WeWontBeErased #QueerLove #Protest #QueerSupport

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Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

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Who has the spoons these days?? Maybe some of us, but definitely not most of us. This presidency has been an onslaught of overwhelm, and this is being done on purpose. With the Trans community being specifically targeted we have to take a beat and understand that most of this federal fear-mongering is out of our hands. The stuff we can control, however, is how we keep showing up. It's time to intentionally build community, it's time to ally, it's time to get creative, it's time to take rest seriously, and it's time to hold dear our Trans Joy.

See you at Roots Market every Thursday from 5-7 PM

Click here for the Trans Joy Boise Private Community signup

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes and exciting announcements. Let’s build something amazing—together! 🌈✨

Celebrating, uplifting, and empowering Idaho's trans and nonbinary community

Support the show

💌 Join the conversation!

• Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: 
• Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.
• Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.

Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

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Trans Joy Boise with Pacey & Bonnie Violet
A Trans & Nonbinary Podcast based out of Boise Idaho

In this episode of the Trans Joy Boise Podcast, we’re diving into how social media is changing—and not necessarily for the better. For many of us in the queer community, these platforms are starting to feel less like safe spaces and more like battlegrounds. We discuss what this means for us, the challenges we’re facing, and why it’s more important than ever to find spaces where we can truly thrive.

✨ Big News! ✨
We’re creating a brand-new online community for queer and trans folks to connect, share, and support one another without fear of censorship or hate. This is our chance to build something safer and more intentional, and we want you to be part of it!

💡 Want to join us? Let us know in the comments if you’d be interested in being part of this new space. We’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas about what you’d like to see in this community.

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes and exciting announcements. Let’s build something amazing—together! 🌈✨

Celebrating, uplifting, and empowering Idaho's trans and nonbinary community

🌐 https://www.transjoyboise.org
https://www.instagram.com/transjoyboise
🎙️Pacey
https://www.instagram.com/pace_speaks
🎙️Bonnie Violet
https://www.instagram.com/sparkleisassparklesdoes

🎬 TikTok 
https://www.tiktok.com/@transjoyboise777

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise #idaho

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💌 Join the conversation!

• Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: 
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Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!

#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise