Two years after first sharing her story, Harleigh Walker, a trans teenager from Alabama, reunited with Kelly Clarkson. The conversation unfolded during a segment dedicated to amplifying the voices of transgender Americans, a powerful moment of visibility and connection.
Harleigh initially appeared on the show in 2023 alongside her father, Jeff, and actress Laverne Cox. Their emotional discussion highlighted the vital role of organizations like PFLAG, which tirelessly advocates for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, offering crucial support to trans youth.
Now 18 and a freshman at the University of Maryland, Harleigh has blossomed since her first appearance. She’s navigating the joys of college life – classes, friends, and the excitement of cheering at football and basketball games.
When asked by Clarkson what message she wanted to share, Harleigh spoke with remarkable clarity and strength. She addressed the pervasive vilification of transgender people in politics and media, stating simply, “We’re people.”
Harleigh emphasized that being transgender is just one facet of her identity. “I’m your average young woman,” she explained, “but that also doesn’t mean I’m not proud to be trans. I just want everyone to know I’m a thriving young woman, and I think that often gets lost.”
Despite Harleigh’s hopeful message, the landscape for transgender individuals in the United States remains challenging. The progress felt during earlier years has faced significant setbacks.
Recent actions have included the dismantling of government-backed diversity, equality, and inclusion programs. This shift, driven by a broader campaign, has led to the removal of LGBTQ+ resources and the termination of DEI personnel across various government agencies.
The impact is visible in stark ways – from the FBI painting over a wall displaying “diversity” as a core value, to the erasure of transgender and non-binary representation from the Stonewall National Monument webpage. Even subtle changes, like the removal of the ‘T’ from LGBT+ in Homeland Security reports, signal a concerning trend.
Harleigh’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and humanity within the transgender community, even as they navigate a climate of increasing hostility and erasure. Her message is a call for understanding, acceptance, and the recognition of trans individuals as simply…people.
