Collections by Michelle Brown WSG Public Servant & Veteran Karen Kendra Holmes

Collections by Michelle Brown

Karen Kendra Holmes has been showing up and making a difference in her community not just as a member of the transgender community but most of her life. Being of service to others is just what she does! When not speaking in person or virtually, Karen continues working with local police departments helping to bring dignity and respect to police interactions with members of the transgender community She was recognized twice as "Soldier of the Year" by the State Guard Association of the United States and the Maryland State Guard Association. This Award-Winning Public Servant and Transgender advocate shared her passion for helping others transition and to foster acceptance and support from those around them in a 2018 Tedx Talk. She has been doing volunteer work with the Maryland Defense Force under the Maryland National Guards with the Chaplain's Unit, and with the Honor Guards. She has also done volunteer work with the American Red Cross for the National Capital Region and the MASS Care for Montgomery County Chapter. For several years, she has been volunteering with Community Emergency Response Team in Prince George's County, Maryland, and also with the Medical Reserve Corps. When not speaking in person or virtually, Karen continues working with local police departments helping to bring dignity and respect to police interactions with members of the transgender community Karen was asked to give a 60-second commentary on respecting each other to be broadcast soon by the Ted Talk folks. She said, "Treat others, as you wish to be treated. It's not just a cliche. It's the golden rule in life. I have feelings, a mind and a heart to serve kids and others. I am a human being and wish to be treated as one. Like you would treat your mother, father, children, siblings, and friends, just like you treat them with respect. I want to be treated with respect."