My name is Dahlia Bekong. I'm currently a senior at the Bronx High School of Science and will soon be attending Binghamton University. Throughout my high school career, I hoped to be able to attend college and study English. However, my experience as a Black trans femme has hindered my ability to do so. Ever since the pandemic started, I've lived at home with an extremely homophobic and transphobic family. I was accidentally outed by one of my teachers, and ever since they have continuously threatened to disown me and refused to financially support me in my pursuit of education. I've also been struggling to adapt to living at home while dealing with my depression. The weight of this, along with pressure from my family, has made it extremely difficult for me to reach out for financial assistance. However, I realize that that is something I can no longer avoid. Due to the unique nature of my situation, I've been unable to appeal for federal or institutional aid since I am still considered a dependent of my parents. For the upcoming year, I am looking at an insurmountable cost. Even factoring state-provided aid, I'm left looking at a bill of about $22,000: about $10,000 for tuition, $10,000 for housing, and another $2,000 for living expenses. The lack of awareness and possible danger of exposing my situation to extended family has given me no other options but to turns towards the people I've grown with and impacted the most during my high school career. For the past four years, I've committed most of my time to the Bronx Science Speech &amp; Debate team and our school's literary magazine, Dynamo. Weekend after weekend, I've competed at tournaments across the nation, winning several accolades and qualifying for the NYSFL State Championship &amp; the Tournament of Champions in my senior year. I've spent countless hours studying and teaching about policy-making, philosophy, and critical literature, and have since grown a love for the unique discussions that a classroom setting can foster. Above all, however, I've grown fond of the connections that I've made. Many of my closest friendships have found their origins within these activities, and I could never thank these communities enough for all that they've given me. Even if you can't support me, I'm appreciative of the time you've taken to read all of this. In a way, it's cathartic to finally be able to talk about my experiences with my family. However, to those that can support me, I implore you to donate whatever amount is most convenient to you. If you can't donate through here, I'm also accepting donations through Venmo &amp; Cashapp, both under "sentimentaldahling". Even the smallest bit helps, and I will be extremely grateful for your assistance. Thank you.

Anonymous

Minna Nizam

Ali Murat Gali

Erin Zipman

Leah Yeshitila

Shahrika Taiyeba

Menasha Thomas

Stefan Inderbitzin

Jeremy Stratton-Smith

Emily Boghossian

Afi Yellow-Duke

IRINA GROUSHEVAIA

Gail Jaitin

Lucy Wang

Zakiya Gibbons

mary heffernan

Survival Fund for a Black Trans Woman

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