Rainbow Shoes Represent Safety

In the summer of 2019, superexcited, my family made their way to Minneapolis, Minnesota after attending a family reunion to spend a few days relaxing. After arriving we found it was a beautiful location that felt so peaceful, but how strange as we think about it now. It has become the location where George Floyd was murdered, and much violence and anger is on display lately. While there we began to take in the sites: including the Mall of America, Prince’s former home (Paisley Park,) and eventually made our way to the beautiful Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Taking pictures, riding scooters, and enjoying the surroundings we spoke to another individual at the park who had approached us. Introducing ourselves we exchanged several minutes of casual conversation. Soon, we found he would not halt his rapid conversation, nor would he stop following us when our group attempted to move on and continue our day.

After additional conversation of approximately another 15 minutes with the exchange of much information (much had to do with a medication being administered to those going through a sex change that was believed to be harmful.) Our oldest daughter shared information with him, as she was familiar with this medication (in her work as a social worker) and had heard issues/complaints from her clients regarding this as well. The gentleman wanted to warn others about it he explained, and hopefully help save lives.

The story that unfolded from him was incredible. He was transgender, was in the process of taking medication that had permanently harmed him, had been raped, beaten, left for dead-all because of the facts:he was transgender, and didn’t fit in to what was considered normal in society.

With tears in his eyes he said “Thank you for taking the time to talk and listen. Before I saw you all today I didn’t want to live anymore. I had to follow you when I saw you. I knew you all were safe. I know now there are others who care.” Pointing, his final words were chilling “your daughter’s Rainbow shoes told me this. They represent acceptance” Our daughter had just purchased those shoes a couple of weeks before, as we all had marched as a family in the Seattle Pride Parade.

For our family it is important to always be boldly affirming, and continuously providing the willingness to accept people as they are, and meet them where they are at in life. Remaining at the forefront is feeling part of a community that speaks about its residents, recognizes and acknowledges their issues, and provides support for them. You never know who is watching you, and the shoes you select and choose to present to the world may be the ones that are needed more than anything.