Myself and Madeline Johnson were invited to speak on a panel discussion of transgender issues at the St. Joseph, Missouri Pride Festival today. This is only the second year they’ve run a Pride Festival, and although it was small, there was a lot of heart and soul put into it by the organizers. Everyone there was open, friendly, and seemed very happy and enthused to be there.

Our panel discussion was held in an ancient downtown building which has been converted into a Bohemian-type art gallery and art seller. About 20 people showed up to listen to the four of us on the panel – besides me and Madeline, there were two transmen to balance things out (I’m not using their names because I don’t know if I have permission).

The audience was friendly and asked good questions, and it was quite enjoyable overall. Most of the questions were legal, and directed towards Madeline, who found herself surrounded by a large group of fans after the discussion (while I wandered and looked at art on the walls). The panel discussion lasted for just over an hour, and then we headed on back home.