I've worn a trans ribbon every day since Trump took office. Sometimes it's scary, and sometimes I hide it for safety reasons, but it's always on my outfit somewhere.

As things have gotten more dangerous, I've considered taking it off. It's tempting to go stealth or even back in the closet entirely, but that wouldn't be fair to myself.

I'd also miss out on the good moments, like today. I was at a yard sale this morning, and the seller's kid was hanging around to help answer questions and carry stuff. They kept staring at me to the point I got uncomfortable and kept my distance, but eventually they walked over to say hi. It turned out they'd seen my ribbon and wanted to compliment it!

Now I may be reading into it, but I got the impression they were scared to say it in front of their mom. They waited until she'd gone inside, and then kept checking to make sure no one else was nearby. I think my defiant visibility did just what I hoped - showed someone that trans people aren't gone, and we're not going away.

So I'll keep wearing my ribbon for as long as I can, because visibility counts. Even if it doesn't make any difference in the grand scheme of things, it can be the most important thing for someone who just needs to know they're not alone.