Twelve and growing up in Phoenix
Submitted by Robyn on Sun, 12/11/2016 - 2:04pm
Luke Charlebois is a voice of the future. He recently told his story in Phoenix.
Blown away by just his conviction, and Luke really sees himself as an advocate for transgender children and youth. He’s very out and proud about it.
--Dr. Vinny Chulani of Phoenix Children’s Hospital
Luke hopes to inspire others who may not have the support he’s had.
If people ask questions, answer them. Tell them who you are and what you would like to be called. Don’t be afraid to stand up.
--Luke
Comments
This is a powerful and pivotal interview.
I think it changes everyone who watches it. Thanks for posting it Robyn.
I've followed Luke's story for some time. What is striking about it is that Luke naturally takes on the voice of all those who, throughout time, have accidentally been born inside a wrongly-gendered body for their most essential nature. By consciously suspending himself in a theoretical space/time to discuss the situation, Luke is also defining the spiritual world for us, and showing us the locus of gender. (You are not your body.) He remains tethered to the knowing universe, and speaks with the unusual authority that comes from such a connection. The messiah voice. The adults around him defer to Luke's wisdom at every point.
The larger lessons to be learned here are valuable.
A most inspiring story.
I am very excited by the reaction of the medical doctor. It is critical that medical professionals be fully supportive particularly as Luke physically matures over the next few years. Luke has already mentally matured far more than most of us. I wish everyone had this level of support.