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Abilene Pride Alliance recently opened their community closet, which offers a safe and welcoming space for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals to find clothes matching their gender identity.
President of the Abilene Pride Alliance, Ry Pelletier, explains that the clothes in this closet are organized uniquely.
“There is no gendered clothing, and so what I mean by that is everything’s organized by size. It’s not organized by like male and female like a typical store would be,” explained Pelletier
The Abilene Pride Alliance came up with the idea to create this space with the goal in mind to make it safe and welcoming for transgender individuals. Months ago, organizers asked the public for donations, and they answered.
“The outpouring of support from just the Abilene community with the clothing donations specifically has been more than I could ever imagine. It’s been really emotional, honestly, just seeing how something so simple like that. Like it took a lot of work to get this, obviously, but it really is just so simple just to have a space open where people can take clothes, and they’re not being asked to fill out a million questions about them to qualify,” added Pelletier.
Salem Rogers is a trans man who has utilized the closet and donated to it. Rogers says that they are proud Abilene has this resource available because transitioning can be expensive, leaving little to no money to purchase a brand-new wardrobe or find a style that suits you. They look forward to seeing this closet alleviate some financial stress for people.
“Buying a whole new wardrobe is something that’s really not accessible for a lot of transpeople, especially because generally there’s a bit of an income disparity. Having a place where I can go and get affirming clothing that matches my outside to what I feel on the inside and to be able to give that same thing to someone else through clothes that I no longer have use for is really important,” shared Rogers.
Michelle, who decided to remain anonymous, shared that when it comes to shopping with her child, who identifies as bigender, comes with its challenges. She decided to visit the closet to see what is available.
“We experienced judgment, you know; my child, they like to dress a little more eccentric and a little bit more loud, and I love that about them but not everyone is as accepting. I noticed our oldest kiddo, after we had a major life change, was just kind of struggling and just staying in pajamas. I brought them here and we got some clothes for them. After that, they kind of came back to life, so to speak. She started dressing again and, you know, doing hair again and stuff like that,” explained Michelle.
Michelle hopes those who might have different opinions understand this closet can be a lifesaving resource for many.
“We try to face it with a smile, and we really do try to educate people. If they don’t want to be educated, you can’t make them. But I think it’s important, even if you don’t want to be educated about it, just to be kind,” added Michelle.
The space is at The People’s Plaza in Suite 121, located at 1290 S Willis St., and is open every day except Sunday. Its hours are unique, as it is run by volunteers. You can learn the hours and how to donate here.
The closet has been officially open for about two months. Since then, more than 150 pieces of clothing have found new homes, according to Pelletier. He says its a true testament that this resource was needed in the community. The space also features a dressing room, coffee/snack area, and a community common area. Pelletier explains that the space was created to have a “home-like feel” and build community.
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