My existence as an intersex American was finally acknowledged, then erased four days later
In 2022, on an oppressively hot and humid day in June, I stood in line with others outside a White House security entrance, sweating but excited to attend former President Joe Biden’s Pride celebration.
It was my first time, and I was thrilled to receive an invitation as an intersex activist. President Biden, with First Lady Dr.
Jill Biden at his side, took the small stage in the East Room of the White House. He welcomed the group of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ) activists assembled to hear his words and celebrate Pride.
What happened next was a moment I will never forget. To my surprise, in his speech, the President said the word “intersex.” I looked at my intersex friends, who were tightly huddled next to me in the crowd as we stretched our necks to see over the people standing in front of us to catch a view of the president, and we shared a look that implied, “Did he really just say it?!” Here was arguably the most powerful person in the world, acknowledging our existence and right to a life free from discrimination and harm.
