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Creating Madoodle: My Personal Journey in Promoting Trans Awareness and Gender Identity Inclusion


As the creator of "Madoodle," the story of a ten-year-old rambunctious girl navigating the journey of her Uncle Pete (who was once her favorite Auntie Mary), I embarked on a deeply personal journey driven by a desire to promote trans awareness and gender identity inclusion in children's literature. Inspired by real-life experiences and a commitment to fostering acceptance and compassion, I poured my heart and soul into crafting a story that would resonate with readers of all ages.

Growing up, I experienced firsthand the challenges faced by individuals navigating gender identity and expression. From family members to friends, I also saw the importance of love, acceptance, and visibility in supporting their journeys. However, I must admit that I recognized the glaring lack of representation in children's literature, particularly when it came to stories that centered on transgender experiences in the African American community.

With "Madoodle," I set out to fill this void and provide a platform for voices that are often marginalized and overlooked. Through the diverse story of Madoodle and her uncle's gender transition, I aimed to spark conversations about empathy, understanding, and the beauty of diversity. By weaving themes of love, acceptance, and familial bonds into the narrative, I hoped to create a story that would resonate with readers from all walks of life. And also help make readers laugh throughout. I succeeded.

One of the driving forces behind "Madoodle" was my belief in the transformative power of literature as a tool for education and advocacy. I firmly believe that conscious-driven literature has the ability to shape hearts and minds, challenging preconceived notions and fostering a more inclusive society. By introducing children to diverse characters and narratives, we lay the groundwork for a future generation that embraces differences with empathy and compassion.

Visibility is key in promoting trans awareness and gender identity inclusion, especially in the classroom setting. By incorporating books like "Madoodle" into curriculum, educators have the opportunity to create safe and affirming spaces where all students feel seen and valued. Through guided discussions and activities, students can explore concepts of identity, diversity, and respect, paving the way for a more inclusive school environment.

"Madoodle" is not just a children's book; it's a call to action for educators, parents, and communities to prioritize trans awareness and gender inclusion in educational settings. By elevating diverse voices and celebrating the richness of human experience, we can create a world where every individual is embraced for who they are.

In creating "Madoodle," my hope is that they serve as a catalyst for change, inspiring conversations and fostering understanding in classrooms and beyond. Together, we can build a more inclusive future—one story and one cartoon at a time.

Purchase Madoodle here.

With Gratitude,

~Dr. Elijah Nicholas, DBA, MBA, MAET, MSOL

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