Note (January 2026):

This fundraiser was created during a period of acute uncertainty as we explored possible relocation options. Since then, we were denied entry to Canada as visitors and advised to return to the U.S. and apply for a study permit through the formal process, which we are now doing. We are currently based in Minneapolis while waiting on PhD admissions decisions. The text below reflects the circumstances that led us to seek support; current updates appear below.

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I used to believe that if the U.S. tipped toward open authoritarianism, I’d be one of the ones who stayed to fight. Since coming out as trans, my perspective has shifted. If I were detained, I would almost certainly be placed in a men’s facility. That isn’t a risk I’m willing to take.

I’m almost 50. I’m a writer and public theologian whose work lives at the intersection of queerness, spirituality, and justice. After coming out, my income declined, donors fell away, and harassment escalated. People I once thought of as ride-or-die community turned away. My partner, Shaw, was unlawfully terminated due to discrimination, and her wage-theft case still drags on.

For months, I have been without consistent medical care due to delays in processing my unemployment, leaving my insurance in limbo. Now a looming government shutdown threatens federal funding that helps keep trans healthcare even marginally available.

Each month has brought more anti-trans bills, weakened sanctuary protections, and growing hostility. We felt we could not afford indefinite delay. At the turn of the year, we began exploring relocation options, including Canada, while pursuing lawful pathways forward through graduate study.

Why now? The political trajectory isn’t hypothetical anymore. Trans healthcare is being dismantled state by state, sanctuary protections are eroding, and enforcement mechanisms are expanding. For us, “wait and see” means “wait until it’s too late.” Seeking a timely and lawful path forward feels essential to preserving safety, healthcare access, and the possibility of a future.

What we’re planning:

We had been offered short-term hospitality as part of our initial planning. However, until acceptance into programs and authorization to study, we cannot work in Canada. That means we need to raise enough for survival—healthcare, food, and basic expenses—for up to six months during an extended period of uncertainty.

I am applying to graduate programs to continue my research and writing while pursuing a lawful study-based pathway forward.

Shaw will explore graduate programs in therapy or social work, continuing her path toward becoming a therapist.

I’ll keep writing and publishing—I have books and essays already underway, and more to come.

The nonprofit I founded (CPI) shuttered indefinitely at year’s end. The work doesn’t end—it shifts. To keep it alive in new forms, we need help making this transition possible.

We are proceeding step by step and will enter Canada only after receiving the appropriate authorization.

Our Goal: $22,000

This covers the cost of moving and six months of survival in Canada.

Transition and Living Expenses for 6 months:

Stretch Goal: $28,000

Extra funds will cover:

How you can help

1. Donate if you're able.

2. Share this campaign widely—it expands our reach.

3. Sustain: For ongoing support as I rebuild my writing and teaching life, join me on Patreon or Substack .

Thank you for reading, sharing, and giving. Solidarity isn't abstract. It's rent, medication, and a safe door to lock at night. You're helping us cross a border and keep a life's work from being extinguished.