After years of seemingly nonstop trials and tribulations, I was able to secure a job and housing for a year with the help of community. Over the course of that year, I did nothing but work and provide a safe space for those I considered family, especially other trans and queer people of color in vulnerable positions like me. This sanctuary became known as the Princess Palace. As House Mother, I did what I needed to do to survive.

The truth is in the work, and mine speaks for itself. I've transmuted my pain from losing loved ones and being a survivor of gun violence into trauma-informed care for youth; I've created networks of mental, social, and physical protection for trans women of color after being attacked in multiple hate crimes; I've coordinated systems of mutual aid for marginalized people to secure housing after being illegally evicted myself multiple times. I’ve fought for my family to thrive, even in the face of rising fascism and the anti-trans hate machine.

I pour so much love into my community because I believe in our collective power. Now, all I ask is for some love in return so WE can keep going. Thank you.

For more info, visit me on Instagram

@diwadivva

@operationSPICE