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Meet Javi

Javi's story

Electrolysis Support Fund recipient

Javi

Javi (she/they) is a 30-year-old HIV+ non-binary femme Latina/Chicana seeking facial electrolysis. They live with gender dysphoria and PTSD symptoms that make it difficult to earn a living. Currently, she is facing housing insecurity as her mother and grandfather who support her have significant health issues of their own, and struggle to fully affirm her gender.

Without facial electrolysis, Javi feels out of place and misunderstood in the world. Javi shares, "I want people to know my truth. I want them to know my gender is real to me, and I am worthy of enjoying my body, my life!"

Javi's timeline

  • Award Granted

    July 14, 2023

    Javi was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!

Grant details

$1,250 towards gender-affirming care.

TikTok-a-Thon grantee





About Hair Removal: Femme Award

On average, it costs $2,300+ for Javi's care.

What is it?

Point of Pride provides grants to trans femme people seeking hair removal on their face, neck, or an area of the body in preparation for bottom surgery.

What is life like for a person who needs this care?

For trans femme folks, particularly trans femmes of color, access to facial hair removal often equates to safety against anti-trans violence or discrimination. It's common for applicants to note issues with employment and public safety, particularly if their facial hair is dark or thick. Electrolysis and laser hair removal services are often deemed cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance plans.

What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?

Access to hair removal often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, increased safety when in public, and better opportunities at employment and more.