Celebrating LGBTQ+ TikTok Trailblazers: Jesse Sulli

In our Creator Spotlight Series this month, TikTok is celebrating the LGBTQ+ TikTok Trailblazers who are making a difference in their own communities. We are inspired by their authenticity and their efforts to encourage others to live freely and fully.

Let's get to know Jesse Sulli (@jessesulli), a transgender father who shares his journey on TikTok. Jesse's story revolves around his transition from mom to dad and raising his daughter, Arlo. His mission is to highlight the diversity of families and be a role model for young transgender individuals worldwide. Jesse wants LGBTQ+ people to not only be heard but also celebrated and empowered.

Pride, for Jesse, means unapologetically celebrating his transgender identity. It is about recognizing the beauty in his authentic self and feeling proud of who he is. Over time, Pride has become a way for Jesse to embrace his uniqueness and find strength in his identity.

Jesse's identity as a transgender person has influenced every aspect of his life. Coming out as transgender was a challenging decision, but it allowed him to raise his daughter authentically and live his life truthfully. This experience has shaped Jesse into an empathetic and powerful individual. Having lived as a woman, he understands the difficulties faced by women and believes that his unique perspective can help him raise his daughter to be a world-changer.

To celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community, Jesse believes that simply showcasing his family to the world is a powerful act. He also tries to respond to LGBTQ+ individuals who reach out to him on social media, offering advice and support. Jesse would love to personally connect with them and show his appreciation. Additionally, he donates to transgender surgery crowdfunds and supports LGBTQ+ businesses. Jesse sees the LGBTQ+ community as a global family that needs to support one another.

The TikTok community has had a profound impact on Jesse's life. It is an inclusive and loving space where he has found support from creators and people from diverse backgrounds. During his transition, the TikTok community provided strength and pride during difficult times. It has also inspired Jesse to be more creative and connect with like-minded individuals.

Jesse is most proud of a video where he documented his journey from pregnancy to the present. Initially hesitant, he wanted to share his complete story, and the overwhelming support he received was incredible.

For other creators, Jesse advises ensuring good lighting and visibility in videos. On a larger scale, he encourages creators to share their authentic stories and connect with people. By showing who they truly are and their personal journeys, creators can create their own microcommunities online.

To the next generation of the LGBTQ+ community, Jesse's advice is to not only accept themselves but to love themselves fiercely. Celebrating one's identity every day is crucial, even in unsupportive environments. Jesse assures them that there is a massive community ready to embrace and support them.

Being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community involves not only personal acceptance but also standing up for LGBTQ+ individuals. It means speaking out against slurs and mistreatment, whether it's confronting family members, posting on social media, or voting for politicians who prioritize LGBTQ+ rights.

Jesse recommends following LGBTQ+ TikTok creators such as @Therealclaybaby, who spreads positivity, talks about mental health, and supports the community. @Ajclementine is a beautiful trans girl who empowers herself and others, which Jesse finds important. Lastly, @ladytragik is a talented musician and activist who shares their journey of starting a family with their wife.