12. Joyful Resistance: One Dad's Call to Action

Camp Wild Heart

We’ve talked before about voting for your kid, and the rafts of legislation that are directed at taking away rights from trans people and trans kids. Even here in the Pacific Northwest, kids and their families are scared.

As of recording on August 15th, 2023, there were 358 active pieces of anti-trans legislation in 49 states. That doesn't include the 80 bills that were already passed, and it doesn't include the 128 bills failed.

This isn't going to stop anytime soon.

Today, we’ll hear from a dad, Mitch, who moved his family from Texas to Washington to escape the oppressive legislation passed there. You’ll also hear about Mitch’s activism on behalf of his trans daughter and gay son, from school board meetings to testifying at the Texas state house, and the impact it had on him, his marriage, and his kids. And he talks about being in the messy middle of transitioning to a new home while missing their friends, colleagues, and many of the things they loved about their lives in Texas.

Check out the full episode to hear about:

• The grief of leaving behind their lives, colleagues, friends, and community and starting over
• Why Mitch chose to focus on “joyful resistance” in his approach to activism
• The sometimes surprising support and affirmation Mitch’s daughter received in her Texas school
• What Mitch learned from his students about affirming, loving, and supporting his daughter when she came out
• The impact of Mitch’s commitment to advocacy on his mental health and his relationships
• Why Mitch says it’s vital for dads of trans kids to get involved
• The final straws that made it clear the family had to leave Texas

Find out more about Mackenzie Dunham:

• Wildheartsociety.org
• wildheartsociety.org/downloads
• Wild Heart Society on Facebook
• Wild Heart Society on Instagram

Resources:

• Season 01 Ep 05: Suicide Prevention: Facing Our Fear Of The Dark