Amber Briggle has been speaking out for transgender rights. Her son transitioned when he was in first grade. While most of the response she has received has been supportive, there have been some hateful comments online.
Since last spring, Amber Briggle has been speaking out in favor of transgender rights.
Her son, who was born a girl named Gracie, transitioned into a boy named MG when he was in first grade.
When there was discussion about so-called bathroom bills, and school policies were brought up, Briggle immediately began speaking out for her son.
When Texas and other states challenged new justice department guidelines allowing transgender students to use the bathroom of their choice, Briggle was in court.
“This is my baby,” said Briggle.
But it has not always been easy.
Briggle said the majority of comments and support she has received has been positive.
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But she has gotten some emails, and comments Facebook and Twitter filled with hate.
People have posted comments say things like Child Protective Services should take away her children and that she is doing this for publicity.
Briggle says nothing could be further from the truth.
She tries to focus on the positive, but says the hate is still there.
“I try not to read the comments, but it gets on you," Briggle said. "You know, it’s like trying to go to the pool and not get wet. With enough people splashing around, it’s just going to get on you,” said Briggle.
She says the difficult mail ebbs and flows.
When the school year began, it picked up again.
“There are a lot of people out there who don't necessarily feel safe or comfortable speaking up, and so, for better or for worse I feel we need to speak for them,” said Briggle.
