The Free to Be Youth Project’s upcoming documentary, “Becoming,” explores the nuances of gender-affirming care from the perspective of unhoused and at-risk LGBTQ+ youth as they envision what is possible for their future looks and lives, deconstruct and reconstruct clothing and ideas, and work on and off the runway to become their most authentic selves.
Stills of some of the models that will be in “Becoming”
Recently, the Free to Be Youth Project held a runway fashion show that featured gender-affirming upcycled runway looks, designed and modeled by Free to Be Youth clients. These photos reflect a sample of what they created for the event. “Becoming” will feature the process the models undertook to create these innovative designs as they share their stories of gender-affirmation in the face of limited resources. The film, and fashion show, are intended to highlight the importance of legal services, medical services, and social transition supports in the journey to authentic self-expression.
Gender-affirming care supports gender identity and expression holistically, addressing gender dysphoria and safety concerns for LGBTQ+ youth through medical procedures, legal support, and social transition. However, financial, social, and political barriers disenfranchise housing-insecure and at-risk youth from accessing the proven benefits of this care. Despite these seemingly insurmountable barriers to self-expression and safety, our clients have harnessed the power of creativity and community as they persist on their journey to authentic self-expression. –Amy Leipziger, Project Director, Free to Be Youth Project
Be sure to follow FREE TO BE YOUTH PROJECT to learn more
Credits:
MODELS
Maje (she/her)
Skai (she/her)
Ava (she/her)
Davina (she/her)
Maliha (she/they)
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Natasha Bernal
Matt Carr
Cristian Gonzalez
MUA
Cortina Lilley
Xio
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