Becoming Johanna

Gr 8 Up—This simple and honest documentary follows a Latina transgender teen as she fights for acceptance. It's told mostly by Johanna herself, though many of those in her life are also interviewed. In the beginning, Johanna lives with her Guatemalan mother, who is clearly struggling with the transition. The film then covers Johanna's move to a foster home, her attendance at a specialized high school, and graduation. Difficult topics, such as bathroom discrimination, family rejection, and mental hospitalization, are offset by the inclusion of supportive role models, school successes, and Johanna's introduction to the LGBTQ community. Particularly of interest is that Johanna's supportive foster family are also Latino and she has a gay foster brother. Their presence provides a balanced look at cultural approaches to the issues.