TRANS JOY BOISE

Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Drag, Disruption & Dangerous Laws: Trans Joy in a Bathroom Ban State 🏳️‍⚧️🔥Guest: Tacoma / Rachel Lee MotivatedWhat happens when your drag becomes your protest? When joy is defiance—and survival? And what does it feel like to live, perform, and pee in a state like Idaho under escalating anti-trans laws?This week on Trans Joy Boise, hosts Bonnie Violet (trans femme, genderqueer, spiritual drag artist & digital chaplain) and Pacey (transmasc, non-binary, mental health & recovery advocate) are joined by the radiant and rebellious Tacoma (aka drag star Rachel Lee Motivated) for a conversation about:💄 Drag as a tool for protest and community building 📣 The power—and risk—of pushing the envelope on stage 🚻 Living through Idaho’s newest bathroom ban law 🧠 Coping with fear, safety, and survival in hostile states 🏳️‍🌈 Turning performance into purpose—and joy into resistanceThis episode is a raw and heartfelt look at how queer artists are navigating joy, fear, and visibility in dangerous times—and how every stage can become a soapbox.🧼 Because in Idaho, simply being seen can be revolutionary.📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YOUR-LINK 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts: https://www.buzzsprout.com/YOUR-LINK Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIn the wake of the Supreme Court’s Skrmetti decision—upholding Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for trans youth—we’re coming together to process, reflect, and rise. 🏳️‍⚧️ Learn more at https://www.acluidaho.org/en/skrmetti-decisionJoin Bonnie Violet (trans femme, genderqueer digital chaplain) and Pacey (trans masc, non-binary mental health advocate) as we unpack:What the ruling means—and what it doesn’t meanHow trans folks in Idaho and beyond are organizing, adapting, and thrivingThe national movement for trans youth still gaining momentumWhy our community continues to show up, speak out, and shine ✨We believe this moment is not the end—but a call to rise. Our resilience is rooted in truth, in joy, in love—and in each other. We’ve faced worse. We’ve built beauty from ashes. And we’re still here.🎧 Tune in for clarity, community, and care. 💖 Trans joy is not a trend—it’s a lifeline. 🌱 Let’s grow stronger together.#TransJoyBoise #ProtectTransYouth #TransRightsAreHumanRights #TransLiberation #TransIsBeautiful #LGBTQ2SIA #QueerPodcast #TransJoy #WeKeepUsSafe #SkrmettiRuling #TransYouthDeserveBetter Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailWe are pretty cute though 👅😉From sneaking into national conferences to fighting for trans liberation in rural Idaho, Bonnie Violet and Pacey break down what it means to resist, speak truth, and survive when your existence is political. This episode isn’t cute—it’s critical.What happens when national LGBTQ2SIA+ leaders underestimate rural resistance? When World Pride gets shut down by police but queers keep dancing in the streets? When you're told your life isn’t under threat, even as laws strip your rights away?In this raw and urgent episode of Trans Joy Boise, hosts Bonnie Violet and Pacey share personal reflections from Washington, D.C., where Idaho’s trans activists were both underestimated and spotlighted at the Human Rights Conference. From affirming moments with icons like Raquel Willis to the deep vulnerability of being dismissed by those in power, we explore what it’s like to be trans in the trenches—especially in so-called "flyover" states.You’ll hear:How Bonnie snuck into national conversations to make trans Idaho visibleWhy people calling Idaho “cute” is dangerous, not flatteringThe nervous system toll of constant vigilance in anti-trans AmericaHow World Pride DC’s protest roots re-emerged under pressureThe spiritual and emotional impact of showing up, even when you're not invitedBi-erasure in media, pop culture’s shifting queerness, and burnoutWhy Pride must be both a celebration and a protest at Canyon County PrideThis is a love letter to those doing the work without credit or comfort—and a call-out to those still stuck in rainbow-washed apathy.✨ Whether you’re on the streets, in the pews, or behind the mic—this episode is for you. Because we’re not here for cute anymore. We’re here for power.🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review. Help amplify queer and trans voices from Idaho and beyond. #TransJoyBoise #TransLiberationNow #IdahoIsNotCute #TransVoices #PrideIsAProtest #QueerPodcast #HIVIsNotACrime #BiErasure #RaquelWillis #RuralResistance #QueerJoy #TransFemmeVoices #TransMascVoices #PridePolitics #QueerSpirituality #FromIdahoWithLove #CanyonCountyPride Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailToday on Trans Joy Boise, we welcome Asher, a trans local in Idaho whose viral TikTok post about wanting to flee the state with his pregnant wife caught our attention. From growing up in Washington to finding himself stuck in a small, conservative Idaho town, Asher shares the real-life struggles of trying to survive — and eventually escape — a place that feels increasingly unsafe for trans folks.We dive into: 🏳️‍⚧️ Trans life in small-town Idaho 🔴 The rising boldness of anti-trans hostility 💼 The near impossibility of finding employment as a trans person 🏡 What it feels like to plan your escape from your home 🏳️‍🌈 Experiencing joy, safety, and community elsewhere — and dreaming of moreThis isn’t just Asher’s story — it’s the story of thousands of trans people who are isolated, unseen, and unsupported in red states across the U.S.📣 Let's get loud about trans joy, trans safety, and the right to thrive.👉 If you're trans and trying to hold it together in a hostile environment, this episode is for you.💬 Drop a comment to show Asher some love or share your own story. 🔔 Subscribe for more real, raw, and joyful conversations about trans life in Idaho and beyond.🎧 Listen on: Spotify | Apple | YouTube | Amazon | Buzzsprout 💖 Support Asher & his Family: TikTok | Go Fund Me #TransJoyBoise #TransVoices #TransLivesMatter #AsherStory #TransInIdaho #QueerPodcast #TransPodcast #TransTikTok #LGBTQ2SIA+ #EscapeRedStates #TransSafety #TransCommunity #TransRights #TransVisibility #TransIsBeautiful #TransJoy #IdahoTransLives #TikTokTrans #FreedomToBe #TransMigration #QueerResilience #PodcastWithPurpose 🎧🏳️‍⚧️ Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIn this heartwarming and hilariously real episode of the Trans Joy Boise Podcast, your hosts Bonnie Violet (trans femme genderqueer drag artist and spiritual chaplain) and Pacey (trans masc non-binary mental health and recovery advocate) are joined by Van, Vice President of Canyon County Pride and a powerful genderqueer voice in Idaho’s LGBTQ2SIA+ movement.Together, we unpack everyday gender euphoria and dysphoria—from awkward “sir/ma’am” moments at the grocery store to the joy of being seen, heard, and affirmed exactly as we are. We dive into:🌈 Nonbinary + genderqueer identity in small towns🌈 What happens when a cisgender world tries to fit us in binary boxes🌈 Our complicated relationships with pronouns and titles🌈 Reflecting on trans media representation—Transparent, Queer as Folk, and Sort OfPart TWOIn this powerful and deeply personal part of the episode, we dive into the heart of queer organizing in conservative spaces—specifically Canyon County, Idaho. Our guest shares their transformative journey from volunteering at Clutch, a queer youth group in Nampa, to co-creating the very first Canyon County Pride Festival—an event that defied local pushback, overcame hate, and welcomed nearly 4,000 people in its first year.We explore what makes Clutch such a vital space for LGBTQ2SIA+ youth, particularly autistic and ADHD kids, who are invited to just “come as you are”—no pressure, just food, fun, and love. You’ll hear stories of chosen family, queer joy, community resistance, and how a casual dream turned into a national headline.Whether you're a parent of a trans kid, a queer youth worker, or someone trying to spark joy and resistance in your own backyard, this episode is for you. It’s a testament to what’s possible when we show up for each other—especially in the places where we’re told we don’t belong.Part ThreeThis raw, unfiltered conversation dives deep into the escalating criminalization of trans and gender-diverse bodies in Idaho and the real-life impact of recent "indecency" laws targeting drag performers and trans women. We unpack how Canyon County’s new legislation disproportionately affects trans folks—particularly those on HRT or wearing prosthetics—and how these laws empower vigilante surveillance and vague police enforcement.We share insights from behind closed doors with local law enforcement and city officials, shedding light on the sobering reality of organizing pride events under state-sanctioned transphobia. From police negotiations to ICE fears, from enforcing a t-shirt policy to protect our most vulnerable to planning an interfaith spiritual service in response to religious-based hate—this episode doesn’t shy away from the messiness of showing up, surviving, and creating queer joy amidst political hostility.You'll also hear about how last year's Canyon County Pride became a site of unexpected healing and solidarity—especially from progressive faith communities and everyday people showing up with umbrellas and love.🗓️ Pride Info Drop:Canyon County Pride is happening Sunday, June 8, 10 Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailWhen the City of Boise ordered the Pride flag to be taken down during Pride week, our community rose in sacred resistance. In this episode, we explore the spiritual fire that fueled the fight to have it fly again — and win. 🌈✊🏳️‍⚧️Join Bonnie Violet and Pacey as they reflect on the divine strength in protest, the sacredness of queer visibility, and how spiritual care and activism are deeply intertwined. From prayer to public outcry, Boise’s flag battle became a spiritual awakening and a call to action. 🙏💥Whether you're moved by faith, fed up with injustice, or both, this episode will fill your soul with trans joy, holy rage, and communal love. 💖Check out Queerly Arts Festival - The Cutest Performance Art Festival 🦄6/19 Where the Wild Things Slay6/20 Come as You Are 🏳️‍⚧️6/21 Embrace The Rainbow6/22 I’ll have The Gay Plshttps://www.instagram.com/queerlyartsfestival#TransJoyPodcast #TransJoyBoise #QueerSpirituality #FaithInAction #BoisePride #PrideFlagVictory #SpiritualActivism #LGBTQ2SIA #TransRightsAreHumanRights #SacredResistance #FlyTheFlag #QueerFaith #TransVisibility #HolyRage Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIdaho’s controversial HB270 law—framed as an “indecent exposure” bill—has  v. raised alarm across the LGBTQ2SIA+ community for its potential to criminalize trans people in public spaces. In this episode, trans state senate candidate Nikson Mathews breaks down the bill’s dangers, shares personal experiences at the Capitol, and offers insight into what this legislation really means for trans lives in Idaho.In this powerful episode, we are joined by Idaho’s first "openly transgender appointed lawmaker fills in for Idaho Senator, Nikson Mathews, unpacks the chilling reality of HB270—a vague and dangerous new law that could criminalize trans and queer existence in public spaces. Nikson shares firsthand insights from the Statehouse, the events leading up to the bill’s passage, and how false narratives from Canyon County Pride were weaponized to push anti-trans legislation.We explore the fear this law creates—how it invites surveillance, emboldens harassment, and forces our community to navigate public life under threat. From deciding what to wear at Pride events to the legal grey areas around simply existing while trans, Nikson speaks to the deep harm of ambiguity and the need for collective resistance.As Pride season approaches, we reflect on the tension between staying safe and staying visible—and why we must keep mindfully showing up, now more than ever. Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIn this raw and real episode of the Trans Joy Podcast, hosts Bonnie Violet (trans femme, genderqueer spiritual drag artist & digital chaplain) and Pacey (trans masc, non-binary mental health and recovery advocate) return after a much-needed break to unpack the emotional toll of showing up, speaking out, and staying visible in hostile environments.From navigating Capitol Hill as a trans advocate during AIDS Watch to re-grounding in Boise’s local trans community, Bonnie and Pacey reflect on the realities of burnout, safety, joy, and activism under attack in red states like Idaho.They also give updates on the 2nd Annual Trans March in Boise during Pride 2025, the impact of new legislation targeting queer and trans expression, and how they’re planning to prioritize safety, visibility, and joy this year. 🏳️‍⚧️🌈This episode is a heartfelt conversation about how rest, vulnerability, and community care are vital parts of resistance—and why trans joy is unstoppable.🛑 Topics Include:Being trans at Capitol Hill and legislative hearingsSafety fears & public expression under anti-trans lawsOrganizing Boise’s Trans March with intentionCommunity care, joy, and rest as acts of defiance📌 Get Involved:👉 Volunteer or support the Trans March📣 Follow us on Instagram @transjoyboise💬 Comment, Like & Share to spread the joy🎧 Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify & more! Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Trans Joy Boise, Bonnie Violet (trans femme, genderqueer, spiritual drag artist, and digital chaplain) and Pacey (transmasc, nonbinary, mental health & recovery advocate) sit down with Elliot, a local activist and chair of the Idaho chapter of Pink Pistols—a queer-centric, ally-friendly gun club focused on firearm safety, self-defense, and community protection.We dive into the history of LGBTQ2SIA+ activism in Idaho, the importance of showing up for legislative hearings, and the growing need for self-defense education in today’s political climate. Elliot shares his experiences with direct action, advocating for trans rights, and building a safer, more empowered queer community.🔥 Topics Covered: ✅ The history & mission of the Pink Pistols 🏳️‍🌈🔫 ✅ Why LGBTQ+ self-defense education is more important than ever ✅ Idaho’s legislative battles & the fight for trans rights ✅ How to get involved in activism & make your voice heard ✅ Practical de-escalation & safety strategies for queer folks🎧 Tune in and join the conversation! Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to support trans joy and resilience.Learn more about the pink pistols at https://www.pinkpistols.com, find on Facebook at Treasure Valley Pink Pistols.#TransJoy #LGBTQSelfDefense #TransRights #PinkPistols #QueerActivism #IdahoPolitics #TransSafety #GunRights #SelfDefense #LGBTQ2SIA Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailTrans Joy Boise with Pacey & Bonnie VioletA Trans & Nonbinary Podcast based out of Boise IdahoThis special event brought together community, conversation, and deep reflection as we welcomed Michael and Angie Devitt, authors of Finding Eve: Raising a Transgender Teen in Idaho.In a state where trans lives are often under attack, this evening was a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to parent with love and advocacy. Michael and Angie shared their story of raising their daughter Eve, offering a heartfelt look at what it means to show up for your child—fully, loudly, and unapologetically.After the book reading, we sat down for a live recording of the Trans Joy Boise Podcast to dive deeper into their journey, the impact of anti-trans legislation, and what real allyship looks like.💜 Whether you're a parent, ally, or member of the trans community, this conversation is one we all need to hear.🎥 Watch, listen, and let this be a reminder: trans kids deserve love, safety, and support—and so do their families.Celebrating, uplifting, and empowering Idaho's trans and nonbinary community#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise #idaho Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Blake Hunter (they/them), a non-binary journalist and writer in Boise, to talk about what it means to be visibly trans in Idaho. From writing the Hey Boise newsletter for City Cast Boise to founding a local literary press, Blake shares their journey of storytelling, activism, and survival. We dive into the importance of trans visibility, the power of being known beyond representation, and the burnout that comes from constant advocacy.Plus, we get real about navigating anger, finding joy in community, and what it means to take up space in a world that often wants us invisible. If you’re trans, questioning, or an ally looking to understand more about the realities of trans life in conservative spaces, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now & subscribe! 📍 Timestamps: 00:00 Intro & Meeting Blake 05:12 Trans Journalism & Representation 12:45 The Power of Being Known vs. Just Visible 20:30 Burnout, Mental Health & Navigating Rest 30:15 Community, Connection & Taking Up Space 45:00 Final Thoughts & Resources🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on trans joy, activism, and community! Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailLaughter is resistance, and comedy is survival! 🎭✨ In this episode of TransJoy Boise, hosts Bonnie Violet (trans femme, genderqueer, spiritual drag artist & digital chaplain) and Pacey (trans masc, non-binary mental health & recovery advocate) welcome stand-up comedian and comedy producer Krystal Moore! 🎤Together, they dive into the power of humor in navigating trans joy, mental health, and activism—especially in challenging times. How can comedy break down barriers, foster resilience, and even reach those who might not listen otherwise? 🤔 Plus, we talk dark humor, the vulnerability of laughter, and why comedy is the ultimate way to shake off the heaviness of the world.+ Queer Comedy Writing Workshop & ShowcaseJoin us for an exciting opportunity to explore the power of comedy as a tool for healing, connection, and advocacy. Whether you want to perform on stage or simply learn more about comedic storytelling, this workshop welcomes all skill levels.Workshop Focus: Learn how to craft jokes, shape your personal experiences into comedic storytelling, and find the balance between humor and vulnerability.Showcase Option: Participants can choose to perform in a live comedy showcase or attend just to learn and grow.Why Comedy? Humor has the power to build bridges, challenge perspectives, and create spaces for connection. Through laughter, we can process our experiences, shift narratives, and foster greater understanding—especially for trans, non-binary, and queer voices.A Space for Community: This workshop is about more than just comedy—it's about supporting one another, processing our shared and unique experiences, and amplifying trans and queer joy.You don’t have to be a performer to participate—just come with an open mind and a willingness to explore storytelling in a new way. Whether you take the mic or not, your presence matters.💬 What’s the last thing that made you laugh out loud? Drop it in the comments!#TransJoy #LGBTQ2SIA #ComedyPodcast #StandUpComedy #QueerPodcast #TransLives #MentalHealth #ComedyHealing #TransCommunity Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailHIV is NOT a crime! In this powerful episode of Trans Joy Boise, we sit down with Kerry Thomas, a passionate HIV decriminalization strategist, to discuss his personal experience with HIV criminalization, the impact of outdated laws, and why HIV Is Not a Crime Awareness Day (Feb 28) is more crucial than ever.Kerry shares his journey of serving 15 years in prison for non-disclosure, the racial and LGBTQ2SIA+ disparities in HIV-related prosecutions, and how organizations like the Sero Project are leading the charge to modernize unjust HIV laws.We also break down the history of HIV criminalization, the medical advancements proving that Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U), and how these laws actually discourage people from getting tested and treated.📢 Join the fight to end HIV criminalization! Learn more at seroproject.com🎧 Subscribe for more stories of trans joy, resilience, and advocacy!💬 What are your thoughts on HIV criminalization? Drop a comment below!#HIVIsNotACrime #HIVCriminalization #UequalsU #TransJoyBoise #HIVAware #HIVStigma #LGBTQ2SIA #HIVAdvocacy #KerryThomas #HIVDecriminalization #HIVJustice #HIVLawReform Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIdaho lawmakers are once again targeting drag and the LGBTQ2SIA+ community with harmful legislation. In this episode of Trans Joy Boise, we’re joined by Jenna Damron, LGBTQ Organizer at ACLU Idaho, to break down the latest anti-drag bill, the misinformation fueling it, and what we can do to fight back.🏳️‍⚧️ Topics Covered:✨ The history of Idaho’s attacks on drag & queer expression🔥 How doctored videos and right-wing narratives fuel anti-LGBTQ2SIA+ bills⚖️ The legal battle against Idaho Family Policy Center💡 What YOU can do to support drag artists and trans joy📢 Take action by having conversations, spreading awareness, and standing up against these harmful bills. Trans joy is unstoppable!🎧 Subscribe for more bold voices, real experiences, and uplifting trans stories. New episodes every Thursday. #TransJoyBoise #DragUnderAttack #LGBTQRights #ACLU #DragIsNotACrime #TransRights #IdahoLegislation #ProtectTransLives Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Trans Joy Boise, we welcome Nikson Mathews—genderqueer, transmasculine advocate, State Chair for the Idaho Democratic Queer Caucus, and policy expert at Add the Words Idaho. Nikson shares insights on the fight against anti-trans legislation, the importance of representation in politics, and how to stay resilient in the face of erasure.We dive into:🔥 The growing wave of anti-LGBTQ2SIA+ bills in Idaho & beyond🏳️‍⚧️ The reality of lobbying for trans rights in conservative spaces🩺 The dangers of healthcare discrimination & the Medical Defense Act🗳️ The SAVE Act & threats to voting rights for trans & non-binary people💜 Finding joy & community amid political challengesThis is a must-listen for anyone passionate about trans rights, advocacy, and staying hopeful in tough times. Subscribe, share, and help spread trans joy!#TransJoy #LGBTQ2SIA+ #TransRights #IdahoPolitics #QueerAdvocacy #TransLegislation #LGBTQPodcast #QueerCommunity= = = = = = Running for Office as a Trans Man in Idaho: Nikson Mathews' JourneyNikson Mathews, a transmasculine activist, ran in the Democratic primary for Idaho’s District 16, a historically blue district that has seen groundbreaking LGBTQ2SIA+ representation. Motivated by watching HB-71 strip away gender-affirming care for youth, Nikson stepped into politics to push for real change.Despite facing discrimination—even from fellow Democrats—he ran an impactful campaign, coming in second out of four candidates in a highly competitive race. He built strong networks, engaged in political advocacy, and leveraged his privilege as a white trans man to navigate spaces where many queer people face barriers.His campaign underscored the dire need for trans representation in Idaho politics. While Idaho remains a challenging place for trans people, Nikson and others are fighting for a future where no one has to leave their home state just to live authentically.Can Boise become a sanctuary city for trans people? What can local governments do to protect LGBTQ2SIA+ rights in hostile political climates? These are the critical questions Nikson and other advocates continue to explore.Stay informed and engaged in the fight for trans rights in Idaho!2025 ACLU Idaho Legislative Bill Trackerhttps://www.acluidaho.org/en/aclu-idaho-legislative-bill-tracker Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Trans Joy Boise, Bonnie Violet and Pacey dive into the 50 State Rally, a nationwide movement against Project 2025 and the rise of authoritarian policies threatening marginalized communities. Fresh from the rally, they share firsthand experiences, reflections on the diverse voices in attendance, and the urgent need for collective action. They discuss the escalating risks for trans folks, immigrants, and other vulnerable populations, the dangers of ICE profiling, and how we can prepare and protect ourselves. Plus, they highlight key takeaways from Poder’s press conference and local activism efforts. Tune in to learn, resist, and build solidarity—because the fight isn’t over. 💙✨ #TransJoyBoise #Project2025 #QueerResistance #TransRightsAreHumanRightsPodcasts mentioned in this episodeCity Cast Boise - What Boiseans need to Know about ICE RaidsBrown Sound - Protect Idaho Immigrants with Poder of IdahoAfter reflections from the powerful march, we discuss the importance of finding support, and highlight upcoming community events that are creating space for joy in the face of oppression. From Trans Joy Boise’s social support groups to an upcoming trans wedding and the Goodbye Love variety show, we explore how we can continue to show up, fight back, and hold space for love and resilience.🔥 Join the Movement: Attend local events, build support groups, and find ways to stay connected.💜 Need Support? You are not alone. Seek out community, resources, and help when needed.📍 Boise Events:Exotica Drag & Burlesque Show – A POC-centered variety show at the Balcony ClubGoodbye Love: A Post-Valentine’s Variety Show – February 15, supporting Trans Joy BoiseA Community-Led Trans Wedding – February 22, open to all✨ Let’s keep fighting, celebrating, and lifting each other up. ✨#TransJoy #Resist #LGBTQ2SIA+ #Community #WeWontBeErased #QueerLove #Protest #QueerSupport Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailWho has the spoons these days?? Maybe some of us, but definitely not most of us. This presidency has been an onslaught of overwhelm, and this is being done on purpose. With the Trans community being specifically targeted we have to take a beat and understand that most of this federal fear-mongering is out of our hands. The stuff we can control, however, is how we keep showing up. It's time to intentionally build community, it's time to ally, it's time to get creative, it's time to take rest seriously, and it's time to hold dear our Trans Joy. See you at Roots Market every Thursday from 5-7 PMClick here for the Trans Joy Boise Private Community signup👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes and exciting announcements. Let’s build something amazing—together! 🌈✨Celebrating, uplifting, and empowering Idaho's trans and nonbinary community Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailTrans Joy Boise with Pacey & Bonnie VioletA Trans & Nonbinary Podcast based out of Boise IdahoIn this episode of the Trans Joy Boise Podcast, we’re diving into how social media is changing—and not necessarily for the better. For many of us in the queer community, these platforms are starting to feel less like safe spaces and more like battlegrounds. We discuss what this means for us, the challenges we’re facing, and why it’s more important than ever to find spaces where we can truly thrive.✨ Big News! ✨We’re creating a brand-new online community for queer and trans folks to connect, share, and support one another without fear of censorship or hate. This is our chance to build something safer and more intentional, and we want you to be part of it!💡 Want to join us? Let us know in the comments if you’d be interested in being part of this new space. We’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas about what you’d like to see in this community.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes and exciting announcements. Let’s build something amazing—together! 🌈✨Celebrating, uplifting, and empowering Idaho's trans and nonbinary community🌐 https://www.transjoyboise.orghttps://www.instagram.com/transjoyboise🎙️Paceyhttps://www.instagram.com/pace_speaks🎙️Bonnie Violethttps://www.instagram.com/sparkleisassparklesdoes🎬 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@transjoyboise777#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise #idaho Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Pacey and Bonnie Violet discuss the overwhelming feelings of the relentless news cycle. Sometimes, the best antidote to feeling overwhelmed is by being in community, which is why Trans Joy Boise will be hosting a café on the 25th of January at the Boise Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. Yes, you read that right. The café will be at a church. Before you make your mind up, hear us out! Pacey and Bonnie Violet go into great detail about past and present feelings with religion and "church". We want to assure our dear listeners that all feelings are valid, however, we may have unexpected allies in places we have typically written off in the past.  Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailWith the Inauguration just days away, we are already seeing an onslaught of hateful legislation for the LGBTQ+ community. Join us as we discuss Idaho legislation, the project 2025 agenda, Meta protections being removed, anticipated Inaugural attacks, and what we can do to challenge all of it.  Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode, Bonnie Violet and Pacey dive deep into the heart of what makes trans-led spaces so powerful. They reflect on the importance of creating communities that not only support but also center the experiences and voices of trans and non-binary individuals. As they look toward the year 2025, they share their exciting plans and goals for growing and strengthening these spaces in Boise and beyond. From creating opportunities for collaboration to fostering authentic allyship, Bonnie Violet and Pacey explore how we can collectively move beyond mere tolerance and build a culture of radical love, joy, and mutual support.With special attention to the work being done in Trans Joy Boise, they discuss how to engage and uplift trans-led initiatives, making space for all forms of trans joy to be celebrated. This episode is a call to action for listeners who want to contribute to the empowerment of trans communities, whether by participating in upcoming projects, offering support as allies, or simply embracing trans joy in their daily lives. Tune in for a conversation full of hope, inspiration, and practical ways you can get involved to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt episode of Trans Joy Boise, Bonnie Violet (she/they), a trans femme digital chaplain, and Pacey (they/he), a transmasc mental health and recovery advocate, reflect on the highs and lows of 2024. From personal milestones like starting hormones to community-building efforts and navigating the challenges of being visible advocates, they share their candid thoughts on growth, resilience, and connection.Tune in as they explore the power of fostering online and in-person relationships, share lessons learned during the holiday season, and look ahead to what 2025 holds for themselves and the community they love. 💜✨ Highlights:Personal reflections on transition journeys 🏳️‍⚧️Building connections and a supportive online community 🌈Hopes and goals for 2025💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailThe holidays can be a time of joy, but they also come with challenges, especially for trans, gender nonconforming, and queer individuals. In this episode, Pacey and Bonnie Violet get real about navigating holiday gatherings, dealing with misgendering and family tensions, and finding affirming spaces during the season.With personal stories, practical advice, and messages of hope, they share how to embrace your identity, protect your peace, and make this holiday season meaningful on your own terms. Whether you’re spending it with family, chosen family, or solo, this episode is here to remind you—you’re not alone.Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan MailBoise State Silently Closed DEI Centers, Trans + Nonbinary Patients displaced in Pocatello & Bonnie Violet loses access to HRT & HIV Health Care>>>@transjoyboise Instagram PostBig changes are happening at Idaho’s universities, and not for the better. Boise State, Idaho State, and soon the University of Idaho are closing their DEI centers—spaces that have supported women, LGBTQ+ students, and marginalized groups for years.These centers have been lifelines for so many, helping students navigate trauma, identity struggles, and discrimination. With these closures, many students are left wondering where they’ll turn for the support they need.It’s not just about saving money—it’s about the very resources that help students thrive. This fight isn’t over, and we need to keep pushing to ensure that every student has access to the support they deserve.Edit: a friend of mine reached out and is one of the people still working there. The staff is the same and passionate about keeping resources available to the students. They’re an absolute rock star for staying and continuing to support in whatever capacity they can 🩵🤍🩷Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan Mail"If gender affirming care is life saving, then why are they banning it?  (question was submitted by a follower and listener. This week, we dive into a topic that’s deeply personal and critical: the importance of access to gender-affirming care for trans people. We share our own experiences, reflect on why this care is life-saving, and break down the Skrmetti case that went to the Supreme Court this week.What’s at stake? Potential implications that could ripple across the country and reshape the future of trans rights and healthcare access. We address the fears, frustrations, and hopes surrounding this case while highlighting the resilience of our community.💡 Whether you’re looking to learn more, feel seen, or stay informed, this episode is for you. Join us as we unpack the complexities and share why fighting for trans rights matters now more than ever.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes! Let’s keep the conversation going—together, we’re stronger. 🌟Support the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan Mail🎙️Pacey (they/him)Preston Pace is a mental health and recovery advocate. From experience in public speaking on recovery, mental health awareness, and suicide prevention to helping organize Boise’s first Trans Pride March, they believe in supporting and advocating for their community and all those who are marginalized. As an example, they have composed programs for secular recovery to aid those who suffer from religious trauma and addiction. These passions extend to their education as they have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and to their personal endeavors, including but not limited to app development for physical health support and recovery coaching. They started a company, Ketamine Chronicles, that supports education on mental health recovery for those that are treatment resistant. It includes a blog and a soon-to-come podcast detailing both their recovery and that of those in their community. They enjoy learning how to help guide their community towards healthier minds, bodies, and spirits, lifting up disenfranchised voices, and standing up for a brighter future for all. E-mail Preston🎙️ Bonnie Violet Quintana (she/they)Bonnie Violet is a trans femme genderqueer spiritual drag artist and digital chaplain. YouTuber & Host of a queer chaplain podcast with such series as Drag & Spirituality, TranSpirit & Faith Leaders. Co-host of Splintered Grace with her conservative christian aunt & At the CCC recovery podcast. Creator & Founder of Allies Linked for the Prevention of HIV & AIDS (a.l.p.ha.), the annual international Drag & Spirituality Summit , & Idaho's First Trans March in Boise.Bonnie Violet shares her experience strength and hope with HIV for 25 years, recovering from drugs, alcohol, and sexual assault & religion for 15 years in classrooms, community centers, churches, online and pretty much anywhere she is invited. She began her medical transition in April of 2022.As, a queer chaplain, she is present with people in death and dying to self by helping to lace one’s narrative with a spiritual threadSupport the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise

Send us Fan Mail"Honoring, Healing, and Rising: A Trans Day of Remembrance Specialhttps://www.transjoyboise.orghttps://www.instagram.com/transjoyboise🔥 Temple of Remembrance Schedule - Let’s make this an unforgettable night! 🔥In light of everything our community is facing, this year’s Trans Day of Remembrance will be a powerful night of unity, remembrance, and transformation. Here’s what we’ve got planned for November 20th!6:30 PM – Speakers: Tune in to inspiring voices lifting up our community.6:45 PM – Ceremony: A heartfelt gathering for reflection and connection.7:00 PM – Safety Perimeter: Ensuring everyone feels safe and supported.7:30 PM – Deconstruction & Fire Performance: Witness the structure take on a new life with a mesmerizing fire performance.8:00 PM – Temple Burn: Release, honor, and transform together in a cathartic ceremonial burn.Plus, in the days leading up to the event, the temple will be open for the community to engage with. Come by to post pictures, write poetry, or leave a note. There will also be a special wooden box for letters to burn – we encourage you to write letters to your former self, loved ones lost, or anything you wish to let go of. Let’s create a space of healing and strength together.Join us with Trans Joy Boise and Gardens of Xanadu. Bring your friends, mark your calendars, and be part of this unforgettable night! ✨🔥.#transdayofremembrance #transrights #transrightsarehumanrights #transpride #transproud #transprideidaho #transjoy #transjoyboise #nonbinary #nonbinarypride #lgbtqia #queer #genderqueer #tdor #hopeSupport the show💌 Join the conversation!Subscribe on YouTube for more episodes on trans joy, resilience, and advocacy: Follow us on TikTok & Instagram for more content and updates.Support our work and help us keep creating affirming spaces.Let’s celebrate trans joy and resilience together!#transjoyboise #transjoy #boise