In this powerful and timely episode of The Amber Show, I sit down with Michelle Rosenblum, a trailblazing transgender advocate and activist from Ventura County. With over a decade of advocacy under her belt, Michelle has been at the forefront of efforts to promote equity, inclusion, and community safety—most recently championing sanctuary policies in Ventura and Ojai.

We explore Michelle’s personal journey as a trans woman, from her early struggles to find acceptance and community to her rise as a leader in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and immigrant protections. Michelle shares candid insights into the challenges she faced navigating the Ventura County custody court system as a trans parent, the support systems that helped her along the way, and how those experiences fueled her passion for activism.

The conversation delves deep into the concept of sanctuary laws—what they are, who they protect, and why they’re more critical than ever in the current political climate. Michelle breaks down how these policies serve as a shield against federal overreach, safeguarding local healthcare access, privacy, and personal freedoms for marginalized communities. We also discuss the intersectionality of trans rights with immigrant protections, reproductive healthcare, and economic stability, highlighting how policies that protect one group ultimately uplift the entire community.

In addition to her activism, Michelle opens up about her role as the Chief Marketing Officer for Sespe Creek, a cannabis dispensary in Ojai, and how her professional work aligns with her personal mission to challenge stigma and foster inclusivity.

This episode isn’t just about policy; it’s about the power of individuals to create change. Whether you’re an activist, an ally, or someone seeking to better understand the fight for equality, this conversation will leave you informed, inspired, and ready to take action.

Key Takeaways:

• Michelle’s personal journey as a trans woman and activist.
• The importance of sanctuary policies and their local impact.
• How intersectionality connects trans rights, immigrant protections, and economic justice.
• Practical steps for getting involved in local advocacy.

Check the link in my bio to read the proposed sanctuary policy and learn how you can support this effort as it heads to the Ventura City Council for debate. Join us as we unpack what it means to protect, empower, and uplift our communities in uncertain times.

Follow Michelle Rosenblum:
Website: michellrosenblum.com

Follow The Amber Show:
Instagram: @_The.Amber.Show_
Website: bio.site/TheAmberShow

Together, let’s take the next step toward building a more inclusive and equitable world.