I attended Kellie Jae Keen’s rally to stand up for women and children last Saturday. This rally is about putting an end to grooming kids, stopping the dangerous medicalization of children who identify as trans, and to ensure women are safe in vulnerable spaces like prison and locker rooms.
I came with the intention of staying quiet and taking photos, as photography is my other passion. But while I was there, I realized that it was important that I speak. I’m deathly afraid of public speaking (despite what it seems) and did not prepare anything. I’m in a unique situation since I can not hold a full-time job anymore due to chronic pain. (for those who are curious, I have Thoracic Outlet Syndrome)
So I decided to put my big girl pants on and step up to the microphone. I figured if 18 year-old Chloe Cole could speak in front of thousands of people at Matt Walsh’s rally, I could speak too. Plus seeing California Senator, Scott Weiner with drag queens and children got me fired up!
This post is to encourage those who are shy or are afraid and believe that I have some special gift, please know that I don’t. I never did. I’m an everyday person pushing myself beyond my limits. So here is my speech:
Here are some photos I took, Enjoy!
**I’ve written a parent’s guide to mental health to empower parents and help them navigate the mental health system. I give you tools and language so you don’t feel you have to blindly trust the experts and find ethical and skilled therapy for your family.