For decades, LGBTQ bars, community centers, and activist groups provided some of the few safe spaces where transgender people could be themselves. In turn, trans culture has enriched LGBTQ culture with unique forms of resilience, creativity, and language.

: Many transgender individuals also identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or queer.

“My name was Steven,” Denny said, his voice ancient but steady. “He survived a plague and a silence. Now he gets to rest.”