Huxley Ren Bunn is the author of the recently published children's picture book, 'Stan and Allen: A Book About Gender.' The story follows two alligator friends as they have a friendly conversation about pronouns, what it means to be nonbinary, and why it’s important to advocate for yourself.
refers to a person whose gender identity partially identifies with a masculine identity, but isn’t wholly binary. “I hope, one day, everyone will be able to be open about their gender without fear of rejection. My quality of life has skyrocketed since I have been able to be open about my gender identity. ”Bunn, 22, lives in San Diego’s Core-Columbia neighborhood and has worked as an artist and painter, in addition to authoring and publishing his book.
The topic of gender became a sore subject. I tried to avoid talking about it and would tell my brother to not correct our parents when they used the wrong pronouns. Then, my legal name change was finalized. I had to once again share this new information, but I realized how important it was to be calm, understanding, and positive. I told them about my new name and how hard it was; yes, it was my choice and what I wanted, but it was also hard.
states that 75 percent of LGBTQ youth reported that they had experienced discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity at least once in their lifetime. Seventy-seven percent of transgender and nonbinary youth reported symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder and 70 percent of transgender and nonbinary youth reported symptoms of major depressive disorder. Statistics show alarming numbers of LGBTQ youth and adults who struggle with mental health issues.
My favorite dinner spot is Cloak and Petal, where I always get their Go Go Ohime Sama roll. It’s the only roll in town I know of that has strawberry compote! It’s not for everyone, but it’s definitely for me. Afterward, I love to relax by watching my all-time favorite show, “River Monsters.”