“By sharing her journey with the world, Caitlyn Jenner is accelerating acceptance of transgender people everywhere and reminds us all how important it is to live as your most authentic self,” GLAAD head Sarah Kate Ellis said.
“For a transgender person to step into the world as his or her authentic self is a moment of tremendous freedom,” said Nick Adams, GLAAD’s Director of Programs, Transgender Media.
“The world can now see what Caitlyn Jenner has always known, that she is -- and always has been -- a woman.”
Jenner’s family quickly rallied around her on Twitter.
“How beautiful! Be happy, be proud, live life YOUR way!” wrote Kim Kardashian, Jenner’s step-daughter and fellow reality television star.
The outpouring of support on Twitter also included a message from Valerie Jarrett, senior advisor to Obama and chairwoman of the White House Council on Women and Girls.
“Nice to meet you, @Caitlyn_Jenner. The brave choice to live as your authentic self is a powerful example to so many,” she wrote.
Jenner became an American sports hero by setting a world record in the decathlon in the 1976 Olympics.
But it was through a previous marriage to Kris Kardashian that Jenner once again became a household name with the reality TV series “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” appearing as the sometimes bemused stepfather of her flamboyant daughters.
The couple married in 1991 and have two daughters together, Kendall and Kylie. They recently divorced.
Model Kendall Jenner wrote on Twitter Monday: “Be free now pretty bird.”
Khloe Kardashian, another of Jenner’s step-daughters, wrote on Instagram: "We were given this life because you were strong enough to live it! I couldn’t be prouder!!!
“Caitlyn, You are beautiful!!!“
As well as the online accolades, Jenner will also receive a real-world one: sports channel ESPN announced it will give the Arthur Ashe Courage Award to the transgender star later this month.
“Being honored with this award, which is named after one of my heroes, is truly special. For the first time this July, I will be able to stand as my true self in front of my peers,” Jenner said in response to the ESPN announcement. - AFP
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