Cis people: I've heard more than one of you tell me that it's "not entirely safe" to go round wearing a trans flag pin, which is why you don't.

And you're right, it's not entirely safe.

But.

If I can go around existing as a very obviously trans woman for four years, then it's safer than your fears are telling you.

When I first started transitioning, I was terrified. Even at the very first step; painting my nails a clear gloss. Would people laugh at me? Would they shun me? Step by step I discovered: no. I started getting supportive comments and compliments. Women started to treat me with trust and openness.

The vast majority of people are kind, decent, supportive

So I challenge you to start wearing that pin that you're scared of. It's just a pin. See how people react to it. You might see some smiles.

Because trans people might be a single percentage of the population, but what about their families? Friends? Co-workers?

Go ahead and take a pocketful of spares, as well. Offer them to your friends, or anyone who asks.

In this darkest time, when every message from the media tells us that we should hate and mistrust those around us, you deserve to discover, like I did, that this mistrust is a lot less well-founded than you might think. So be brave, and wear that empathy on your sleeve. Or lapel.