Beyond Magenta Grounds Coming-Of-Age Stories In Heart And Pathos

What did transgender and nonbinary teens in 2014 experience when coming to terms with their identity?

Some books make you want to tear up while you hear many people’s stories. They break your heart, as you hear of kids that are fighting for their right to live, to exist. I just want to hold them tight and reassure them things will be okay. I also learned more information about some of the medical treatments and social resources available to minors and adults alike. These resources could save lives and improve a reader’s well-being if they are trans, transitioning, or wanting to explore these identities.

Beyond Magenta, which turns nine this year, covers tales of teens that have to learn to love themselves. The Callen-Lorde Community Health Center worked with Susan Kuklin to ensure these communities and narratives remained accurate and insightful about these societal issues. Some are still undergoing that journey, but all of them understand that they are not alone. Some request that they are not photographed, but they all tell their stories.

Beyond Magenta: Transgender and Nonbinary Teens Speak Out. Written and Photographed By Susan Kuklin