Transgender people from around the region will converge on Geary Park in Ferndale for the annual Transgender Pride in the Park event, taking place from noon to 6 p.m. on Aug. 4.
The event grows each year, and among the new attendees will be Cary Marsh, Transgender Michigan's newest board member. Marsh is a 61-year-old FTM (female-to-male transgendered person) who joined the organization four months ago.
"I have never been to one, but I do feel with all the feedback I have been told it's lots of fun , games, food and very friendly people," he said. "I heard a lot of good feedback about it."
Indeed Transgender Pride in the Park is a good time and a unique time for trans-identifying individuals and their allies to get together. Last year over a hundred people came to the event, many from around the state and Ohio and Indiana. One person came up from Texas.
People grill burgers and hot dogs and many bring a dish to pass. There is plenty of good food and opportunity to mingle, with Transgender Michigan co-founder Rachel Crandal likening the event to "a big family reunion."
Marsh said that when he came out as transgender at the age of 59, "Transgender Michigan helped me in finding professionals who specialize in transsexualism. Also I was able to meet other individuals feeling the same as me, and got a lot of support that was needed."
After having gender-affirming surgery last August, Marsh has found value in sharing his success and evolution with others. "I think It's important to get involved to get out and show we are the same as any other person: we have feelings. We love. We respect all people. And we need to show it by being out and about."
In addition to his work with Transgender Michigan, Marsh is active at Affirmations Community Center in Ferndale. "I co-facilitate in two groups there Senior Koffee Klatch and Life Support. I also started a support group for loved ones and partners of transgender individuals called S.O.S. I found someone to take it over that's not trans so all will feel comfortable," Marsh said. "I want to help in any way I can for all transgender individuals."
Transgender Michigan, which is also headquartered in Ferndale, provides counseling, information, advocacy and networking opportunities for transgender people and their allies. They also hold community events like the Pride in the Park Picnic and offer a 24-hour help line for those with questions about transgender issues.
