As I walked in the door from school last night, my husband asked me if I was ready for some shocking news…I told him I was and he proceeded to hand me his cell phone with an article from Rolling Stone open.

Tom Gabel, a musician I’ve been a fan of for years has announced his struggles with Body Dysmorphia and his choice to undergo gender transformation.
Tom has been married for years, has a child, a wife, a famous band and a pretty successful up and moving solo career. Essentially something any 20 something’ punk kid would want, but Tom isn’t some punk kid anymore. Tom identifies as a woman and is asking for nothing but support from his fans and friends.

As someone who spent the better part of their teenage years listening to Against Me!, someone who is now married with a child of their own. I have to say while completely shocked, I 150% support Tom!

It takes such courage to admit to yourself and the people you love the most and not to mention take it to a very judgmental public who criticize your every move. I can only pray that the vast majority show the support deserved for all parties. Not just Tom(soon to be Laura Jane Grace) but Tom’s wife and child. They are simply amazing for standing by and allowing Tom true happiness.

My husband and I actually had the pleasure of meeting Tom just a few weeks ago in Hollywood after his set with the Revival Tour. Tom was visibly tired and worn as this was one of the last dates of the concert but Tom posed for photos and graciously accepted every compliment and bit of appreciation from his adoring fans.

Although I must say after reading the Rolling Stone article a lot of connections were made in my head. Tom didn’t look like the Tom I knew at all. Tom looked softer, not just the longer hair, but the features on her face. Tom has always been of a smaller stature but seeing her on stage I noticed just how fragile and petite she really looked. Something was different but of course my husband and I didn’t care we were there to support or favorite musicians and hear our favorite music.

Tom has and always will be a symbol of passion on so many fronts for me. As a member of Against Me! and through his solo project I was turned onto so many topics and current issues that I had no idea on. I feel more cultured and educated through the music put out by Tom.

I’m not only proud to have met Tom but proud to be a fan through out his change. I will gladly tell my daughter of his story as a way to keep her as far away from bullying and intolerance as possible, on both ends of the spectrum. I want my child to grow up with taste and class and dignity. I want her to stand behind the people she loves and looks up to and to be accepting of every race, gender, lifestyle, etc. As long as it means no harm to others.

So thank you Tom for your bravery and courage. I only wish the rest of the world felt the way my family and I do because all too often others dealing with similar issues live in fear and pain, it’s just not ok. All I can do is to promise to raise my children to not take part in such hatred.
So for all of you Gabel fans or LGBT supporters, show love and acceptance of it all and make sure to let Tom know you accept her as Laura or whatever she chooses to be because above all she has a soul and courage. Tweet, facebook, tumblr, whatever, show your support!

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/inside-transgender-singer-tom-gabels-rolling-stone-interview-20120509

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/tom-gabel-of-against-me-comes-out-as-transgender-20120508