Why toys?

One of the main symbols involved in this monument is childrens toys, but what does this represent?

When listening to politicians discuss the lives of transgender children and teens I often feel horrified at the lack of humanity and empathy. Trans kids deserve to feel loved and accepted just like any other child. My hope is that the symbol of childrens toys will highlight the fact that although transgender kids face a unique set of challenges that cisgender kids do not have to deal with, all children deserve the freedom to play, learn and grow in a healthy environment that is free of judgment or risk.

Toys are also often one of the most prominent symbols of the gender binary that kids interact with on a daily basis. The stark difference in marketing directed to girls vs. boys and the restriction of what toys are socially acceptable to play with based on your gender is often confusing to all children regardless of their identities.