Marsha Botzer, Co-Founder of the Ingersoll Gender Center, Seattle, WA
What is your pride and joy in life?
A great deal of what I might call my pride and joy in life comes from recalling all the people who have advanced our Trans and LGBTQ+ world, our many struggles together, and the things we’ve united to build. It is a great thing to create something that leads to less pain and more happiness.
What do you feel thankful for about our community?
That it exists! That we’ve made, kept, and expanded this world of self-exploration. This community of ours gives hope and changes lives, as it did for me. Early on, I only heard whispers of possibility, but that was enough to keep me going. Today we thrive, we fight, and we win.
Who inspires you to make a difference in the world?
Every queer person who moves from tears to hope, from being alone to being part of our community. Especially those who dedicate time to helping us all. Also, every LGBTQ+ organization that does good work. My historical inspirations include the early Trans leaders, the organized Labor Movement, the people who use the Center, and of course, Robert Green Ingersoll, after whom I named the Center.
What are the dreams you still want to accomplish?
I dream, but also act on those dreams. I dream and know that we will overcome the current rash of attacks against the facts of identity and orientation and put away forever the lies about LGBTQ+ and particularly Trans lives. I believe that those who have done so much and those who will do even more will fulfill the dream of our future.
What hopes do you want to see come true for the younger generations?
I want political, social, and economic safety for all our people, particularly for the younger generation, both now and in the future. I want accessible healthcare, welcoming schools, fair jobs, union jobs, and full opportunities for a good life. These things need to happen so that young people and future generations won’t have to waste time and health simply trying to exist in the world.
How do you stay grateful for what you have?
I feel grateful every day when a Trans person finds what they need to thrive. Behind that fact is the work of so many individuals, and their dedication always gives me reasons to be grateful! We have helped many, and that is certainly another reason to be grateful. I am also especially thankful to the good people who, years ago, gave me a chance and a place in the work that is my life.
What encourages you to make tomorrow better than today?
The clear fact that others have made today better than yesterday. This can be done! We can do it. I’ve discovered that for me, and for many, there is no better way to spend your time than in the service of fairness, justice, equity, and community.
What is one thing you are proud of yourself for?
Not giving up on the good dreams, particularly the Ingersoll Gender Center.
