In 1962 at the age of 5, Stacey Rice knew she was not a boy. It wasn’t until 37 years later after turning 40 that Stacey began the process of transitioning into the woman she is today. But it wasn’t an easy journey. Living in the South- the realities of being openly trans meant the risk of losing your job, your house, and worse. In 2011, Stacey visited Portland and from the moment she stepped off the plane, for the first time in her life, she felt at home, safe and sound. Since relocating Stacey has been a force in the LGBTQ+ Community as a storyteller, advocate, public speaker through her genuine ease and willingness to break down the barriers, be vulnerable, and build community through common ground.