Hey. My name is Teri Lightning. I'm a Black Trans person that has lived my whole life in Indiana. I graduated high school with the 17th highest GPA in my class, then went to college to earn my bachelor and masters degrees in journalism, with a research study to my name. All of this happened while I was in Indiana. This is why it pains me to say that I need to leave the state as soon as I financially can.

Because of the rising hate towards trans people, I have reasonable concerns that trans people will be treated like second class citizens. In my home state, I have seen lawmakers take away legal recognition of non binary people, like myself. While access to healthcare for Trans people have been banned for minors only at the moment, I do fear that access could be taken away from adults as well. Finally, Indiana has no legal protections for trans individuals in places of work and education, and in fact once had a law to legalize discrimination.

While I'm thankful to still have access to trans healthcare, I still have to endure trans hostility, wether it's at work while I'm serving tables, at bars trying to enjoy the night, or even when I'm out shopping for stuff. With stories of trans people getting attacked simply for being in a space, I think I'll have a better chance to not only protect myself from trans hate but also live a fulfilling life if I move out of Indiana.

So why Santa Fe and not a closer city like Chicago, Minneapolis, or Grand Rapids? For two simple reasons. 1) As stated in the beginning, I've lived my while life in Indiana so I'd most likely see a different perspective if I move out of the region. 2) I have a friend that lives in Santa Fe. This will make my transition in a new city more smoother as I'll know at least one person in a city new to me.

My goal is to raise enough funds so I can ship my personal belongings to Santa Fe, break my lease if I am unable to find a subleaser, purchase a one way plane ticket and train ride, and help me get settled on my feet.

Any contribution made will be appreciated. Thank you.