August

Youth Speaker

My name is August, and I identify as agender, and use they/them pronouns. I am 16 years old. Being trans wasn't something I was always aware of, in fact I'd describe my experience as being blissfully unaware of the concept until it and puberty hit me like a bullet train. It was in 5th grade when I discovered what being trans meant, and simultaneously discovered that I was trans. It was there in my bedroom, on my floor that I crafted a binder from a sports bra, and for the first time after being bombarded with the concept that is gender, I felt like myself. I went through it as a trans child, I was without understanding from most adults and peers. Even my parents didn't know what to think of it when I first came out to them. I was called made up slurs like "girlboy" by other students, which may not seem especially painful, but after hearing it so many times it began to cut deeper. Even the teachers would call me names behind my back or just deny my transness directly my face. But luckily I was able to find solace in my best friend, my little brother, and later my parents and grandparents. I love to crochet, and I enjoy writing. Today, I am the someone I needed back in fifth grade, I am August.

Melachi Carroll

Melachi “Mel” Carroll is a trans man and serves as a program manager for gender affirming care and health navigation for Equitas Health. He is a member of Iota Theta Upsilon Fraternity Inc., Black Trans Men of Ohio, and Dayton Black Pride. He is Graduated from The Monica Roberts Freedom school for Black Trans Leadership Academy, Member of the Human Right Campaign of Greater Cincinnati where he Serves on the steering committee, Served on the welcome committee for Black Trans Advocacy Conference. Mel is originally from Fort Worth, Texas and moved to Dayton, Ohio to be with his beautiful bride, Jennifer 2011. Today Mel leads in numerous black causes, and passionate about aiding other trans individuals to navigate the complex health care system in Ohio to achieve their health care goals and breaking down any barriers to live their authenticate life.

Music By:

The Woke Duo

Comprising of Daniele Shlomit Sofer (They/Them), and Christian Stargell (He/ Him/They) was formed in 2024 after the pair met at the TDOR event last year. The name, suggested initially as a joke, is a perfect encapsulation of the duo who focus on playing the music of composers from marginalized backgrounds and engaging with social change through their art. The Woke Duo is currently in preparation for their debut recital series Decolonization, set for spring/summer 2026

Ciara Rayne Keeton

Ciara Rayne Keeton (she/her) is a transgender woman and disabled Navy Veteran turned activist, advocate, and amateur educator. Since coming out in 2016, she’s worked to uplift trans voices, speak out against hate and bigotry, and create understanding through outreach. She believes remembrance must inspire action, that honors those we’ve lost. This means fighting for a world where every trans person can live freely, safely, and profoundly. She currently works as the National Recruitment Manager for Trans Unity Coalition, a non profit organization focused on improving the lives of Transgender Americans