Reneka Evans, 38, works for the African-American AIDS Task Force in Minneapolis
"I was a 'girly boy' growing up, popular and athletic. After high school, I did drag shows at the Gay 90s in Minneapolis, but it defeated the purpose of being a serious female during the day. I started taking hormones eight years ago and even have hot flashes! I had surgery one year ago ($15,000, covered by insurance). Surgery was a dream. Now I have high standards for the men I date: They must be employed. They must be secure in their sexuality. They must understand that I am a woman. I can take you to the bank on 'I am female.'"
Jendeen Forberg, 53, well-known Twin Cities drummer
"Work. Responsibilities. Deadlines. Being transgender doesn't play a large part in my daily decision-making. At first, it did. I had to go through a lot of steps. Living as Brett, I dated women but kept thinking, 'I wish I could dress like you.' I did fall in love a few times. I married in 1981, divorced in 1985. I sort of wanted to be my wife. I really, really cared for her. She wanted to start having kids. I didn't feel comfortable being the man. In 1990 I went to a restaurant dressed publicly as a woman for the first time. I transitioned 12 years ago and am now in a long-term relationship with my partner, Tempest, who is also transgender. I had my breasts done but, instead of having surgery, I used the money for really good drum gear."
