Hi, fam. I'm Amara Jones. Welcome to the Translash podcast, a show where we tell trans

stories to save trans lives. I want to let you know that we are talking about some tough topics today,

so I'm going to start this show with an expression of gratitude to you. I'm always grateful

for the love you show, for the work that we are doing, because it reminds me why it's so

important, and that we're actually making a difference. One comment which brought a

smile to my face comes from at Esam J and references our last episode with the incredible model

and actress, Lena Bloom. Quote, if Lena Bloom is Walking Magic, Amara Jones is the goddess

of the stars, hashtag Black. Amara Jones is the goddess of the stars. Hashtag black trans

magic is the best magic to close quote. I love that, goddess of the stars. Thank you,

SMJ. And if you share a comment on Twitter, Instagram, or an Apple podcast review, I might just

read it on the show.

This week on the Trans-Sage podcast, I'm having some very important conversations as part of

Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

As I mentioned, these conversations are going to touch on some difficult topics.

So I wanted to give you a heads up before we delve in today's episode, please do what you need to do to protect yourself as you listen. There might also be some explicit language as you listen to this podcast as well. Even though the issues of violence and childhood sexual assault, including the harm they do and how we heal from them

are difficult, we believe that they are crucial. So try to stick with me if you can.

First, I'm going to talk to Lala Holston-Zanel, a tireless anti-violence advocate and organizer

working to support and empower trans people currently at the ACLU.

So the system has created this barrier for men who want to love us, but we're never conditioned

or taught that we could be lovable.

Plus, you'll hear from Ignacio G. Rivera, a visionary leader pushing to re-envision the

ways we prevent and end childhood sexual abuse.

...