Sarasota Resident from the Trans Community Talks About Trump’s Legislation

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — A 2024 survey from The Trevor Project reveals that 90% of LGBTQ+ young people reported that their wellbeing has been adversely affected by recent political developments.

Moreover, anti-transgender legislation has led to a significant rise in suicide attempts among trans and nonbinary youth, increasing by up to 72%, according to the same report.

India Miller, a 56-year-old trans woman, has been a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community for decades. “I’m out here on a street corner in Sarasota saying, ‘Hey, get to know me,’” she shares candidly.

Known for her ability to spark conversations about transgender issues, Miller emphasizes, “Live your best life focusing on the best person you can be.” Today, she embraces the role of storytelling, sharing her lived experiences with others.

She engages in what she calls “transplaining,” welcoming questions from her livestream audience or passersby, addressing common inquiries about transgender individuals.

Recalling her childhood, Miller says, “At eight years old, I knew I was a girl. It made me profoundly different and depressed. By the age of 10, I attempted to take my life.” Transitioning from male to female has certainly been challenging for her.

“My family didn’t connect with me at all. Many fears I had came to fruition,” she reflects. Recently, she’s faced intensified fear for her safety. “I’m experiencing depression for the first time in 30 years and see a therapist weekly,” she admits.

The recent political climate has exacerbated her struggles. “This level of hostility aimed at such a small population is unprecedented. It feels hopeless. It seems like the majority has turned a blind eye to help trans individuals, making up less than 1% of the population,” she expresses.

Miller remains resolute in her advocacy. “I’m a very out and proud transgender woman,” she states. At a recent interfaith gathering in Sarasota, she expressed her outrage over anti-LGBTQ legislation in states like Florida.

The laws, she believes, contribute to a sense of despair among younger generations. Reference is made to a recent executive order by President Donald Trump, which asserts that biological distinctions define gender. This stance deeply worries her: “It’s frustrating to see such lack of support,” she shares.

Nonetheless, Miller is determined to continue her message of resilience. “Keep moving forward. You will get through this. Be authentic; your people will find you,” she encourages others in the community.

Through each conversation and advocacy effort, she continues to champion for LGBTQ+ rights, one step at a time.