Caitlyn Jenner made an emotional and passionate speech last night at the ESPY Awards about her struggles transitioning and the hardships that other trans people face. Aptly, she spoke out about transgender rights while accepting an award for bravery. 

She mentioned that prior to the past few months she’d never met a transgender person and had battled her secret alone. However, Jenner acknowledged that for many trans people life is even more difficult. She said: “They’re getting bullied, they’re getting beaten up, they’re getting murdered, they’re committing suicide...If you want to call me names…go ahead, I can take it. But for the thousands of kids out there coming to terms with who they are, they shouldn’t have to take it.”

Jenner also spoke about the importance of being a transgender role model, coming out in the open about her identity and hopes that her story can change attitides towards transgender people. “Trans people deserve something vital, they deserve your respect, from that respect comes a more compassionate community," she said.

The sports star bravely held herself together during the speech until she mentioned her family, who were in the audience. She fought back tears as she said: “You guys have given so much back to me, I am so grateful to have you in my life.”

The importance of her speech, and her story, was lauded by the trans community, including Andreja Pejić and Laverne Cox.

Additionally, Jenner also looked amazing. She modestly asked in her speech for the fashion police to go easy on her, as she hasn’t been out and about dressed in womens clothes publicly for long. However, she looked beautiful in a cream, custom Atelier Versace gown. Go girl.