• ELIXHER
• On August 6, 2013

Channyn Lynne Parker

Last month, ELIXHER reported that Chicago House, an HIV/AIDS residence and social service agency, opened the TransLife Center, a facility that offers housing, employment programs, support services and more to the Chicago transgender community. ELIXHER got the chance to chat with Channyn Lynne Parker, the TransLife Care Coordinator, about the community’s new addition.

ELIXHER: As a black trans woman, what kind of significance does the opening of the TransLife Center have to you?
CHANNYN: As a transwoman of color, the harsh reality of women that mirror myself are all too real. Being transgender alone often means being misunderstood, unsupported and marginalized; now couple this with being a black transwoman and you’ve got an explosion. The TLC opening for me symbolizes justice. The TLC is concrete proof, literally, that the civil injustice, harassment and oppression that transwomen have and still continue face does not fall on deaf ears, nor is looked upon with blind eyes. Not only have the cries of this community been heard, but action has been made.

ELIXHER: Why is it important for trans people to have a safe space dedicated specifically to their community?
CHANNYN: In regards to a very similar question once posed, my answer was: “Some wounds just don’t heal without the help of a specialist.” This is a community that deserves individual, specialized care, solely dedicated to meet the needs and gaps so often found within the trans community. To have access to much needed resources such as job readiness, medical consultation, linkage to care and overall support is greatly needed. In addition to these things, to be a part of a space where peers see through the common lens of being trans-identified is healing in itself. To have the support of staff who are dedicated to community and serious about social change is paramount. We see that when any group of people, whether we are talking about race, culture, etc., comes together in unison and is able to see through that common lens, pride is instilled where it once languished. When specific communities learn of themselves in ways that they never have before, they discover they are resilient opposed to victims. The motivation to change becomes evident.

ELIXHER: What advice do you have for trans women of color who reside outside of Chicago and do not have access to a facility like the TransLife Center?
CHANNYN: Research and find out what resources there are for trans-identified people in your community. Utilize the web. Find support groups that are geared towards transwomen of color. There is strength in numbers. Find where other transpeople gather and try to build community with them. If you have the ability, start your own support network. Many times transwomen find themselves alone while trying to understand and appreciate their own transition and contribution to this world. Above all, know that you are not alone.

- Interview by Kimberley McLeod

Kimberley McLeod is a DC-based media strategist. She is the founder and editor-in-chief of ELIXHER.