How do you create your own masculinity? “I transitioned late, when I was 35. I knew trans

How do you create your own masculinity? 

“I transitioned late, when I was 35. I knew trans women, but didn’t know any trans men. The first trans guy I ever met was Louis Mitchell. I was sitting on a panel for the PPG with Pauline Park and Ms. Watson, when Louis Mitchell disclosed he was sitting next to me. I was blown away. That’s when I realized, Wow, that’s me! We’ve been the best of friends since. He’s my big brother. We have a fraternity of trans men, and we pledge to mentor the younger trans guys and lead them in the right direction. We help younger guys with their transition, help them get in the job field; we feed, house and clothe them. We do what we can to help them.” – Jevon Martin, 45, Bronx, NY

(From the photo series Masculinity Means, created for Medium.com’s WE ARE THE T! collaboration)