Texas Family Relocates to California for Trans Rights

Sunny Bryant, a young transgender activist, is embarking on a new chapter in her life as her family relocates from Texas to California. This move comes after the Bryants faced increasing challenges related to anti-trans legislation that limited Sunny’s rights and access to necessary medical care.

Sunny, who is about to start middle school, first gained attention four years ago when she testified against bills that sought to restrict transgender rights in Texas. Despite her efforts, her family felt that their situation had become untenable. “Our fear of her losing her rights came true,” said Rebekah Bryant, Sunny’s mother. “She can’t play sports. She’s an athlete… But she needs care, and to do that, I’d have to travel out of state.” The family’s decision to leave Houston, where they enjoyed a three-bedroom home with a pool, was driven by a need for a more supportive environment.

As the Bryants made their way to California in late July 2023, Rebekah shared their journey with USA TODAY while driving the family car. Her husband, Chet Bryant, followed in a rented truck with their son, Bodhi Bryant, and their dog. “It’s been a long, hard drive,” Rebekah noted. Their new living situation in California, a 900-square-foot apartment, contrasts sharply with their previous home, but the family believes it is a necessary sacrifice for Sunny’s well-being.

This family’s story is not unique. A recent study from the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law found that nearly half of transgender adults, or 48%, have moved or are considering relocating to areas perceived as more accepting. The same study indicated that 76% of respondents cited concerns over LGBTQ rights, while 71% pointed to hostile social and political environments as driving factors for their potential moves.

The Bryants’ departure reflects a broader trend of individuals seeking communities that align with their values, especially in light of increasing anti-trans legislation. The Trans Legislation Tracker reports monitoring 134 anti-trans bills in Texas alone, affecting various aspects of daily life, including healthcare, education, and sports participation. Nationwide, 121 such bills have become law across 28 states, according to the tracker.

The ongoing legislative battle has created a challenging environment for the Bryants. Opponents of gender-affirming care for minors have raised concerns about potential long-term physical and psychological harm, arguing against medical interventions for young people. Nevertheless, numerous healthcare organizations, including the American Medical Association, contend that criminalizing gender-affirming care can lead to detrimental effects on the mental health of transgender youths.

Sunny’s journey toward self-identity began at a young age. According to Rebekah, Sunny expressed her true self as early as four years old, demonstrating a clear understanding of her identity. The family’s focus on supporting Sunny included therapy and open discussions about gender identity. After living in Australia, they returned to the U.S., where they encountered a less accommodating environment for Sunny’s identity.

Sunny became an activist at just eight years old, garnering national attention for her testimony against a bill restricting transgender athletes from competing in girls’ sports. Although the bill eventually passed, the family felt the legislative tide in Texas was increasingly against them. Rebekah began searching for jobs in more accepting states and ultimately secured a teaching position in California that she described as her “dream job.”

The move has not come without challenges. Relocating is costly, and the Bryants have launched a GoFundMe campaign that has raised over $13,000 to assist with their transition. The cost of living in the San Francisco Bay Area is substantially higher than their previous home in Texas, but Rebekah believes it is a worthwhile investment in Sunny’s future. “Sunny deserves the chance to grow up and thrive,” she stated on their fundraising page.

The family faces the emotional difficulty of leaving behind a community of friends, allies, and beloved teachers. After four years in their Houston home, they listed it for sale but had not built significant equity. Packing their lives into a 16-foot truck, they are ready for this new beginning.

Upon crossing into California, Rebekah expressed relief and joy at the promise of more rights for Sunny. “Just knowing Sunny and I had more rights just by driving across that river,” she recalled. “It’s been like a perma-grin since we got here.” The Bryants hope that this move will provide a more supportive environment where Sunny can fully embrace her identity and pursue her dreams.