Monika: At what age did you begin your transition? Was the process challenging for you, and how did your family and friends support you during that time?
Sarah: I came out at the age of 21 as a junior in college. It was certainly the hardest thing I have ever done, but I still had an easier time and more support than a lot of people.
I never had to worry about the support and love of my family and all of my friends have been affirming. If this process has shown me anything, it’s that those blessings should be rights for all and not based on luck or privilege.
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| With her parents together with the first openly LGBT U.S. Senator. |
Monika: During your transition, were there any transgender role models you looked up to? And what was your understanding of transgender experiences at the time?
Sarah: When I came out, I had done a lot of research on what it is to be “transgender,” but I wasn’t really aware of many transgender people out there. Since coming out, I’ve gained a lot of role models, people like Mara Keisling, Amanda Simpson, Dylan Orr, Chloe Schwenke, Chaz Bono, Janet Mock, and so many others who have set a positive example and been trailblazers for transgender people. All of us are standing on their shoulders.
Monika: What would you say was the most difficult part of your coming out journey?
Sarah: Like I said, I was incredibly lucky to have a relatively smooth transition. I think the hardest thing was my concern that I would be disappointing people, including my family, by revealing my truth. I found out, however, that as hard as it was at first, my family and friends are as proud of me and love me just as much as before.
Monika: It's been two years since your transition. Did you anticipate finding such success, not just as a woman, but also as a trans activist?
Sarah: I honestly did not know what to expect when I came out. I worried that my professional life was over. I’ve had some amazing and inspirational opportunities over the last two years, but I owe those successes and opportunities to my friends and family who have stood behind me the entire way. I would have never been able to work at the White House or help pass this bill had it not been for the people who had come before me.
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"The McBride Family Talks About Gender Identity Protections" (YouTube) |
Monika: What advice would you give to young trans women who aspire to achieve the same level of success in politics that you have?
Sarah: That your dreams and your identity are only mutually exclusive if you do not try. I would also say, though, to not rush into anything. Be sure to take care of yourself first and it is always okay to say “no.” It’s okay to be uncomfortable with something. You do not have to do everything that everyone asks of you. You are the best advocate when you are happy, healthy, and safe.
Monika: Sarah, thank you for the interview!
Sarah: Thank you! Great questions!
END OF PART 2
All photos: courtesy of Sarah McBride unless specified otherwise.
© 2013 - Monika Kowalska
13 January 2021
On January 13, 2021, Sarah McBride made history by being sworn in as a member of the Delaware Senate, becoming the first openly transgender state senator in the United States. This milestone was not just a personal triumph for Sarah, but a monumental achievement for the transgender community and a powerful statement about progress, inclusivity, and representation in American politics. Sarah’s journey has been marked by courage, determination, and an unwavering commitment to advocating for equal rights.
Almost 8 years after she gave this interview to me, it’s inspiring to see how far she’s come. What an incredible day it was, and what a legacy she is building! I am so proud of her and overjoyed to have had the opportunity to interview such a future-important politician. Congratulations, Sarah, on this well-deserved accomplishment! Your success is a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless individuals, and a reminder that change is possible when we strive for a more inclusive future.
Other publications about Sarah McBride:
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