Transgender, 17 and want to move out

[Guest]

Hey guys I have a problem I’m transgender but that’s not the problem. The problem is my dad doesn’t want to call me by my preferred name or pronounces. He said and I quote “your my daughter and your name is Jacalyn” my preferred name is Shawn. I have a boyfriend who if I move out I’ll live with. I don’t have a job yet but if I moved out I’ll get one. It piss me off that my dad or mom don’t call me by my preferred name ...help

[ccsmod6]

Hi thank you so much for reaching out. You do not deserve to be treated like that, especially by your parents. You deserve to live somewhere where you feel safe and respected for who you are. It is completely valid to want to no longer live with someone who deadnames you and refuses to respect you. There are some things to consider before leaving. If you do leave, your parents have the right to file a runaway report with the police since you are 17. You aren't doing anything illegal, but it is a status offense. This means that if you're found, you will be returned to your parents. Once you turn 18 this is no longer an issue. Although in some states they don't return 17 year olds to their parents if they are found. The best way to know what would happen is to contact your local police non emergency line. We would be happy to call them for you if you give us a call at 1800RUNAWAY or chat us at www.1800runaway.org. There is also the LGBT National Hotline at (188843-4564 and the LGBT National Youth Talkline at (1800)246-7743. Thank you again for reaching out.