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The Empowerment of a Newfound Freedom: An Interview with Koomah, Co-Founder of The Houston Intersex Society

In a world that often overlooks the experiences and struggles of intersex individuals, one organization stands at the forefront of creating awareness, advocating for change, and empowering the intersex community. The Houston Intersex Society, led by the passionate and dedicated Koomah, has made remarkable strides since its founding in 2012.

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In a world that often overlooks the experiences and struggles of intersex individuals, one organization stands at the forefront of creating awareness, advocating for change, and empowering the intersex community. The Houston Intersex Society, led by the passionate and dedicated Koomah, has made remarkable strides since its founding in 2012. In 2022, they were awarded a BANF grant, which has provided them with the means to further their impactful initiatives. In this story, we delve into Koomah’s journey, the organization’s origins, the significance of the BANF grant, and its visionary plans for the future.

Discovering a Shared Journey

Koomah, the Co-Founder of The Houston Intersex Society, found a deep connection to their intersex identity through a remarkable twist of fate. Having known each other during their teenage years as part of a local LGBT youth group called HATCH, Koomah, and co-founder Mo Cortez navigated their intersex status secretly, bound by shame and societal stigma. However, destiny had other plans. Years later, these two kindred souls reconnected at a local community center, realizing the shared isolation they had felt during their youth. At that moment, they decided to create The Houston Intersex Society, a groundbreaking organization that would transform countless lives.


Today, The Houston Intersex Society emerges as a beacon of hope, not only for the 7 million intersex individuals residing in the US but also for their families, friends, and communities. The organization’s mission extends beyond providing support; it encompasses education, awareness campaigns, and artistic endeavors to foster a culture of understanding and acceptance. In addition to their invaluable work with intersex children and adults, The Houston Intersex Society diligently educates medical students, providers, LGBTQ+ organizations, and legislators, advocating for systemic change.

The BANF Grant Application Process

The BANF grant played a pivotal role in the growth and sustenance of The Houston Intersex Society. Applying for the grant proved to be a refreshing experience, as it allowed Koomah and their team to present their genuine selves without compromising their values or cultural identity. The approval of the grant brought immense relief, not only to The Houston Intersex Society but also to other intersex organizations. By removing the need to compete for limited intersex-specific funding, the BANF grant opened doors for collaboration and amplified the impact of their work.

The Transformative Impact of the BANF Grant

The BANF grant’s financial support alleviated the constraints that had previously impeded the organization’s endeavors. Empowered by this newfound freedom, The Houston Intersex Society embarked on a journey that led them to significant milestones, including: crafting the world’s first intersex-themed ArtCar, traveling to a national intersex conference to present a workshop on Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity, traveling to Washington DC to educate the federal HHS Department at an intersex round table; and paying copyright fees for the screenplay that the organization completed for an intersex themed feature film.

The BANF grant’s significance extends far beyond The Houston Intersex Society. By consciously investing in and funding BIPOC artists, arts organizations, and communities, the grant has paved the way for transformative impacts. Not only has it supported local BIPOC artists and organizations, but it has also uplifted the wider community affected by the work made possible through these grants. Other funders have noted the power of investing in BIPOC-led initiatives and creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Looking Ahead

The Houston Intersex Society has set its sights on groundbreaking initiatives that will shape the intersex community’s journey to empowerment. One such initiative is creating the world’s first intersex community center, a sanctuary where intersex individuals can come together for social gatherings, support, and educational events.


In a remarkable collaboration with the Transgender Foundation of America, they are embarking on a pioneering television show project titled “The Intersex History Roadshow” and “The Trans History Roadshow.” These captivating shows will draw from the extensive archives of both organizations, showcasing rare artifacts and conducting expert interviews to shed light on the rich history of intersex and transgender communities.


Through this groundbreaking television project, Houston Intersex Society seeks to elevate the narratives of intersex and transgender individuals, showcasing the diverse experiences and contributions that have often been marginalized or overlooked. By intertwining the stories of both communities, they hope to foster a more profound sense of understanding, empathy, and solidarity among all viewers. The goal is to rewrite the narratives, challenge societal norms, and create a more inclusive and accepting world for future generations.