This program is subject to change.
Dealing with Rejection by Family
Workshop Description
Often one of the hardest parts of supporting a trans child is being rejected by family
members, the very people we expect to help us get through difficult times. In this
session, we will explore different ways we experience rejection, techniques for trying to
salvage damaged relationships, and knowing when it’s time to let go. We will also talk
about building a new “chosen family” that can provide us with the emotional
relationships we need to move forward.
Conference Track
Family
Topic
General Interest
Primary Contact
Debi Jackson
Workshop Presenters
Debi Jackson
Pronouns
Presenter Bio
Debi Jackson and her family live in Kansas City, Missouri. She became an advocate for transgender rights in 2014 when her speech about her daughter's transition at the age of 4 went viral. The "conservative Southern Baptist Republican from Alabama" now speaks on behalf of transgender children and their families around the world. Debi received the 2016 NEA GLBT Caucus Role Model Award for her contributions to education about the LGBTQ+ community. She trains schools on trans-inclusive policies and supporting students through their transitions.