The Lens

TransSending to New Heights

Erin Parisi has her head in the clouds… literally. She is a trans trailblazer who has already ascended the highest peaks in Australia, Europe, Africa and South America. Erin is on track to conquer the Seven Summits: the mightiest mountains on every continent.

Next stop: Everest.

By reaching the top of Mother Earth’s most towering topography, Erin would become the first ever transgender climber to achieve such a feat. Her goal is to fly the blue, white & pink flag celebrating trans rights atop Everest, an accomplishment that would eclipse her own personal best.

In February of 2019, Erin unfurled her fabulosity at the summit of Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in the world, besides those nestled in the Himalayas. It was a momentous occasion not just for Erin, but for the community she so proudly represents.

TranSending is a nonprofit organization committed to elevating the transgender movement to dizzying new heights. We live in a turbulent era when trans individuals are being silenced. The U.S. military has banned our non-conforming community members from serving openly. Approximately 40% of trans individuals are survivors of domestic violence. If we do not protect our LGBTQ+ family, we could disappear like the snows of Kilimanjaro.

But Erin Parisi is bringing power back to the peaks. She has crested the aforementioned Kilimanjaro, and she will not be erased. That’s not to say Erin hasn’t endured setbacks; she had to postpone her plans to dominate Mount Denali, the shimmering jewel of North America. Covid-19 disrupted our National Park Service, but Erin’s spirit will not be deterred. In fact, she plans to pair Denali with Everest next year, like a double-album of defiance.

Take that, pandemic.

TranSending is amplifying Erin’s voice, projecting it from the most majestic mountaintops on the globe. Athleticism is an expression of the human condition. Sports don’t care if you are male, female, young, or old; you just need to be your best. That is the TranSending mission, and it is on the rise.

Ain’t no mountain high enough for Erin. We are with her as she sets her sights on Everest and beyond. Our hearts soar with Erin Parisi and our joined hands wave back at her trans flag as it flutters above the clouds. Long may it wave. (Photos from TransSending7.org)

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Kevin Perry

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