How Posting Selfies Empowers Trans People

Although popular, selfies are strangely frowned upon by many people. We live in a culture that doesn’t really like it when people are proud of how they look, but when you think about it, there are plenty of reasons for people to take more selfies, especially trans folks.

1.) They allow you to watch your progress

Transitioning is hard work! Seeing before and after photos of yourself feels like a reward and is something to be celebrated!

2.) They dismantle cisnormative beauty standards

Too often, cisgender people are impressed when a trans person meets certain criteria that allows them to pass as cis. It's really important to remember that all trans people look great no matter where they are, or where they want to stay, in their transition.

3.) They help create media visibility

Shows like Transparent, Orange Is the New Black, and Sense 8 are allowing trans media visibility to expand greatly, but there is a still a long way to go before trans people can be fully represented, and social media is a great way for trans folks to create space for themselves.

4.) Selfie hashtags like #transisbeautiful encourage self-love and redefine beauty standards

Here's what Laverne Cox had to say when she started the hashtag #transisbeautiful:

"All the things that make me uniquely and beautifully trans—my big hands, my big feet, my wide shoulders, my deep voice—all of these things are beautiful. I'm not beautiful despite these things, I'm beautiful because of them. "

Sometimes, you just got to love yourself!

5.) They are super fun to post

For trans people (just like everyone else!) it's important to take a break every now and again to do something fun and lighthearted, celebrate yourself, and feel and express joy however you choose.