Laverne Cox Meets M., A 7-Year-Old Trans Girl — What Happens Next Is An Inspiring Tear-Jerker

Thanks to people like Laverne Cox and Caitlyn Jenner, the transgendered community has a pair of high-profile champions whose fame and influence can inspire and encourage trans people everywhere.

Including one transgendered girl known only as M., whose mom, Marlo Mack (that is a pen name), writes a blog and podcast about life with her daughter.

M. is 7.

And for Marlo, who wrote about her daughter’s recent meeting with Laverne for KOUW, the fact that she and Caitlyn are getting so much attention is a miracle, because it means a better life for her child.

“I’m overwhelmed by this new state of affairs, and by a world that might just be ready to accept my daughter. And that knocks me off my feet with awe and gratitude. The world seems to be changing, just in time for our beloved children.”

It’s easy to get teary when Mack recounts the meeting between Laverne Cox and her daughter. But the actress’ kindness is par for the course. She started the #TransIsBeautiful movement, lent vocal support to Jenner, and is using her notoriety to give a voice and much-needed support to transgendered people who are less fortunate.

Of course, little M. doesn’t watch Laverne on Orange is the New Black. But when she and her mom went to meet Cox, who made an appearance in their hometown, the child understood that Laverne was trans, and important, People added.

And that’s a great combination for a young girl looking for a role model who’s just like her.

Mack said that the venue where Laverne was scheduled to appear was packed with excited fans, eager to meet Cox. M. and a transgendered friend were the only kids. Her appearance included a speech that went over their heads, but the clear message was this: “Here is someone who is talented and smart and famous and beloved by the multitudes – and she’s also like you,” Marlo wrote.

A friend managed to get Mack and her daughter into a private reception area to meet Cox, and she staked out a spot in front of one of the room’s many doors. And it just so happened that Laverne popped out of one of them. Before she could do much but wave, she couldn’t help but notice the “tiny person in a flowery sun dress … waiting to be noticed.”

The interaction between the two is a tear-jerker.

“Well, hello,” (Cox) said.

“I’m M.”

Laverne smiled. “Hello, M.”

“And I’m trans,” M. said.

Cox seemed shocked, and turned to the room, asking “Did you hear what that little girl said?”

Marlo stepped forward and said a few words to Laverne, which she couldn’t recall. Then M. launched into her new friend for a big hug as her mom took pictures. Cox crouched down and gave her one piece of wisdom she’ll surely never forget.

“Remember, honey, transgender is beautiful.”

Of course, this isn’t an isolated incident. The actress — the first transgendered person to be nominated for an Emmy, by the way — has lent her support both privately and publicly, praising Caitlyn Jenner recently in a blog post. She commended her for her bravery, and complimented her on her beauty. Jenner was immediately grateful, Entertainment Weekly reported.

.@LaverneCox, you are fierce and fabulous! Your support means the world. Thank you for all that you do for the community. #TransIsBeautiful

— Caitlyn Jenner (@Caitlyn_Jenner) June 18, 2015

My pleasure. Sending you lots of love always. #TransIsBeautiful https://t.co/sWHbFHcSy3

— Laverne Cox (@Lavernecox) June 18, 2015

But what’s equally as important, it seems, to Cox, is supporting those without a voice, like M.

“Most trans folks don’t have the privileges Caitlyn and I have now have. It is those trans folks we must continue to lift up … I have hoped over the past few years that the incredible love I have received from the public can translate to the lives of all trans folks.”

[Photo Courtesy Frazer Harrison / Getty Images]