Thank You, AB

March 30th, 2026 was the CIF State Track and Field Championships and AB Hernandez' last track meet, because trans athletes aren't allowed to compete in NCAA collegiate sports in the United States.  During the last couple years of her athletic career, she has maintained her dignity and joy against a massive wall of transphobic hatred, all the way up to Donald Trump and JK Rowling. We asked people to extend their well wishes to AB as her high school athletic career comes to an end and her life as a young woman making her way in the world begins. These are the responses we got and shared with her. Names of individuals who are not public facing have been redacted for safety, but have been shared with AB.

If you’d like to add to this list, visit bit.ly/thankyouAB, and we’ll add it to the list.

Dear AB,

“Dear AB, May your resilience and strength continue to be a beacon for all! Continue fighting for what’s right superstar! 💕”

“Your tenacity and spirit is nothing short of inspiring. People came at you with ugliness and hate, and you met them with joy. Never lose that and keep up the good fight. May winged Nike, spirit of victory, always grant you the focus and courage to achieve your goals no matter where life takes you.”

“Dear AB, Your strength and resilience are an inspiration to athletes everywhere. Congratulations on all of your hard work, and achievements despite people trying to tear you down! You are amazing! You are important. You matter. You have your whole life ahead of you. Keep shining and being true to yourself.”

“Hey AB, I want you to know that you have not only shown yourself in these moments you can do hard things but in all the moments where life feels hard that you can do hard things. I want you to know that there will always be someone rooting for you in the corner in this life. No matter the amount of noise and haters that may be loud in some moments. Know that you are loved. There’s a lot I can say here because well I’m just your friendly trans therapist who loves to talk and let others know that they are worthy and loved. Never give up! Never forget you can always slay the day away! 🏳️‍⚧️🏳️‍⚧️”

“Dear AB, I so admire you for being YOU and not letting others define or negate your true self. May your journeys after high-school be full of adventures, good people, joy and contentment. Keep being true to yourself, u r a Rockstar!”

“Congratulations on you outstanding accomplishments in high school track. You are an outstanding athlete but more importantly, you are a strong, mature and graceful person. You are a role model for ALL people who face adversity and to accomplish that at such a young age is remarkable. You are a trailblazer and I look forward to learning what you accomplish in college and beyond. I'm sure this is only the beginning for you. Enjoy your final track meet and keep reaching for the stars!”

“AB, our family is proud of you, and we wish you the best in the next step of your journey. We have never met you, but please know that we love and support you in all things. You are an amazing young woman! Xoxo (name redacted) and family”

“Dear AB, I’m so proud to know you and your mom and in awe of all you have done, and the grace and strength you’ve shown through every challenge. There is so much love and positive energy flowing your way from every possible direction and I hope you always feel it. I know you’ll kill it this weekend! With love always, (name redacted)”

“You deserved so much better. We're here for you and your family and whatever you decide to do next, please know you have an entire community behind you ready to support!”

“Putting yourself in the spotlight is never easy. Your bravery and perseverance are an inspiration to so many. To those that judge, know that changing their minds and opening their hearts to the trans community will take time. Your grace in the spotlight is a huge step in the right direction. Thank you and good luck wherever your path may lead!”

“Keep running! You are amazing, and I am grateful to follow your journey as my own kid embarks upon hers. 💕”

“I am in awe of your bravery and dedication. Thank you for always standing up for yourself and for so many others in spite of all the negativity. You are an amazing role model for so many people, including me. Sending you my best wishes for future successes and much happiness! 🙏💕 from (name redacted), Irvine, CA”

“AB, you are a female sports icon. We're so proud of you. Haters gonna hate, but we think you're incredible.”

“Dear AB, I wanted to send a note to tell you how much of an inspiration you are. Not just because you are an amazing athlete and champion, but because of your ability to stay poised and dignified in the face of so much hatred and inappropriate behavior from adults that should know better. I have no doubt you will be successful in anything you choose to pursue after graduation. Wishing you blessings and much love. J”

“You are an inspiration, an icon, and everything our community stands for. From one track athlete to another, always keep running past that finish line!”

“Dear AB, sending our love and support to you at this difficult time.”

“You're an inspiration and you're going to go far!”

“Hello AB, I just wanted to let you know that you are loved and supported by your community. We will always have your back! You are strong and powerful. I hope that you are able to achieve all your goals. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. Yes you can!”

“Hi AB! You’ve got this girl! Your character and sportsmanship are so mature - especially for your age and will see you through your long life with so much class. Keep up the love of sports and life!”

“Dear AB and all the Hernandez family, Please know how big our hearts are for you and how in awe my family is of your determination and dignity. We know that AB only ever wanted to run. It should not have been this hard, but it is, and you have persisted. AB is a gold medal athlete and your strength is there for everyone to see. We will continue to fight with dignity for the day all our children are seen for the amazing people they are. We are sending you all our hugs and love.”

“AB - you are such an inspiration. You’re a champion in every way that counts. I’m sorry this world isn’t ready for you. You deserve better. Thank you for being a light in the darkness. Never doubt what an impact you have made on this world, and on mine. You amaze.”

“AB, congrats on an amazing track and field career. You should be very proud. You have so many people cheering you on as you move on to your next big adventure.”

“Dearest AB, You are brave, you are worthy, you are the one and only you. Thank you for leading the way. You are an inspiration. Shine on, beautiful girl!!”

“I am a kindergarten teacher who teaches my students about changemakers. We talk about how sometimes doing something small can make a big difference, and sometimes that small thing is just being who you are and standing by what you know to be right. I hope that someday, kindergarteners will learn about you, because you are a changemaker, and you are an inspiration. Good luck with your final meet!”

“Dear AB, Sending you all the best wishes that you are able to live your life with the love and support of those you hold close, and with courage and defiance in the face of those who seek to hold you back. An honest life will take you far beyond those who live their life guided by hate. In community, (name redacted)”

“AB, you are truly an exceptionally fierce, loving, and strong and human being! You are an athlete.and a scholar, and no amount of negativity from those others can touch that reality. History will prove you, other Trans athletes, and those who love you all right!”

“Hey AB, I just wanted to say as a trans athlete myself in Washington State, your story was inspiring seeing you to continue going on, which gave me courage to push through and stay the course. You are undoubtedly one of the strongest people, with more strength and courage than any of the vicious bigots have in their pinky. I wish the best for you in life in high school and beyond, and NEVER forget who you are. You are a queen, and all the bigots are a bunch of children who masquerade as “in the know” 40 year olds using God as their excuse for hatred. Sincerely, (name redacted)”

“You are a shooting star! As a transgender millennial, it gives me hope to see the younger generation be so proud of who they are. The kids are alright. Forget the haters, keep on shining your light!”

“AB, Your courage in the face of all the ignorance, all the hate, all the obstacles, has been so inspiring to so many. To also see the love and support of your family, competitors, fans, and advocates brings joy and hope to so many. I hope something changes in time for you to compete in college, but if it doesn’t, your career has been amazing. Be so very proud, (name redacted)”

“Dear AB, Thank you for following your brave heart and making a path for others to do the same. May all your life dreams come true. (name redacted)”

“You are such an incredible inspiration and role model of integrity and strength. And of course an amazing athlete. From one of your MANY admirers. ❤️ (name redacted)”

“AB, I’m so glad you’re still here with us! I hope that you continue to find joy, and though you’re very resilient, I’m sorry you have to be. I hope you find rest in the next season of life. -27 y/o trans guy”

“You are a hero, AB! In the face of so much hatred, you stood strong and did your best and have inspired so many trans kids from across the world. One day, when things get better, history will remember you as the trailblazer that you were.”

“Thank you for your courage and heart🌷💘”

“You are Trans Joy! Keep running, jumping, and celebrating you! From a queer mom of a Trans son, sending you and your family so much love!”

“Dear AB, Huge congratulations on your high school graduation as well as all of your athletic accomplishments! You are a superstar that will shine brightly in whatever endeavor you choose to engage in. Thank you for showing all trans students how to hold your head high and be your true self. You are a role model now and forever more. Sending good wishes your way.”

“Thank you for being a light in the darkness. You are seen, supported, and appreciated. Those of us (with loved ones) who don't fit into the boxes that "society" wants them to fit into appreciate your visibility and your advocacy.”

“AB your is joy contagious! Wishing you the best of luck in your future endeavors! Sincerely a new ally!”

“From a mom of another kiddo about to graduate high school, I just want you to know you're awesome & an inspiration, and I'm proud of you. Reach for the stars - or leap, in your case!”

“Your strength and grace under pressure are remarkable, for a person of any age. You have continued to survive & thrive in the unforgiving glare of social media campaigns based on terrible lies about you. Please know that we see the character & intentions of the people who target you, and find them disgusting. And that the world is filled with people you’ve never met who support & love you.”

“From @TheWokeGinger and my 1.2 million followers standing beside you: thank you. Thank you for showing grace while people tried to strip it from you. Thank you for choosing joy in a world that too often rewards cruelty. They threw politicians, billionaires, media personalities, and internet mobs at you — and you still ran your race with dignity. No law can erase the impact you’ve had on other young trans kids watching someone refuse to disappear. Your legacy is bigger than any finish line. 🏳️‍⚧️”

“Congratulations on all of your athletic success! You are inspiring to watch as an athlete and as a human being! Such poise and joy as you do what you do! Keep being you!”

“I hope that you can feel the overwhelming appreciation, support, and admiration that is here for you. In abundance!”

“ABH, keep running. Your road hasn't been discovered yet, it's yours to pave. ❤️”

“Thank you for being you, following your dreams in the face of discrimination and harassment. I’m sorry your career has to be cut short, and I hope things change for the better for you and everyone following in your footsteps 🥰”

“AB - you are a shining light in the world and in our community. I know your road has not been easy, in spite of this, your strength and poise are inspiring. Keep flying past those who are not worthy of your company, and bringing those who are along for the ride. Truely, from the bottom of my heart - thank you!”

“Hi AB my name is (redacted) and I’m a 35 year old trans man and a hockey player. I was a D2 roller derby athlete for 15 years before prior to my transition. I met my first trans femme friends in roller derby and I wouldn’t have known I had the option to transition if they hadn’t been brave enough to skate with us. Thank you for your visibility even though I know it comes at a cost to you, you are an inspiration to trans athletes everywhere. I wish you peace, love, joy, and comfort in your next steps in life and am here to connect as a semi retired athlete if you need someone to talk to ❤️🏳️‍⚧️”

“I am so inspired and impressed by you, AB!! You are an amazing woman!”

“Hi there! I just want to celebrate you for the extreme courage and tenacity of spirit that you seem to share effortlessly with the world by just being yourself. That should not have to be a courageous thing- It’s just normal. I’m sorry that we live in a time where people with power are looking for anybody to target in order to become more powerful but there are millions of us with you around the world celebrating the natural goodness of just being yourself and doing what you love and doing it so well. There will be so many more opportunities to shine in this world. We’re with you!”

“Dear AB - Wishing you all the joy you deserve and that you bring to others—your family, your friends, the larger community of trans youth and their allied family and friends. Go out there and be you! There's nothing better. All the best, (name redacted)”

“You are light! You are an inspiration! You are so loved. I am a trans athlete too (but trans masc and 40). I wish people who think you have an “advantage” would take a beat and see the headwinds you have to run into even before you make it to the start line of your jumps. Despite that effort to set you back - you are breaking through and jumping strong. It’s amazing and I am so grateful to you and your mom and your community for continuing to jump through those heavy winds. I commit to working hard to slow the speed of that headwind so you can compete with ease. Sending love. (name redacted)”

“Just sending you love. You bring so much love, light, joy and inspiration to so many people. I know incredible things are on the horizon for you, even with this barrier in front of you right now. We all stand with you.”

“You are amazing and everything you’ve done is so important! Thank you for being brave. I wish you all the best in whatever you do next!”

“AB - you are an absolute national treasure. The world is a better place with you in it, please know that so many people all over are cheering you on. Keep your head high, sending you love & light! Congratulations on a successful track record, and best of luck in all future endeavors!”

“Have an incredible race!!! You are worthy!”

“Hey AB - another track kid here. I’m so so proud of you and everything you’ve accomplished as a jumper so far. Please don’t let what’s happening around you detract from everything wonderful you’ve already done. Your existence in our sport of track and field is needed, wanted, and beloved. Jump high, kid. Keep pushing. We love you.”

“Dear AB, you have more courage than most adults. You are an amazing human being. Please know that you have a community of people young and old, from all over, supporting you and sending positive vibes. Just remember - this regime will end and you will see better days ahead. We stand with you forever!”

“I come from a track family. We are rooting for you and your team. Have a blast!!! And know we have your back and are gonna keep fighting against these @$$(*!#$!!!!”

“Keep fighting the good fight!”

“Dear AB, you are such a hero and icon. You have weathered the storms thrown at you will grace. I also proud of you. Thank you!!!”

“AB- Congratulations!!! I’m the mom of two trans girls in L.A. and although we’ve never met I have been rooting for you! It’s clear you have worked SO incredibly hard and I hope you feel absolutely triumphant in all you have achieved. You are an inspiration. Sending love to you and your mom from me and my family. XOXO!!! -(name redacted)”

“Hi AB! We are so proud of you for playing as your best self! You are loved and supported in more ways than you know! Keep on killing it!”

“AB -Thank you for being who you are. You've come of age at a difficult time, managing unwanted and deeply misguided attention while staying focused, competing at your best, and doing so with grace and joy — and winning! Congratulations on your amazing progress and best wishes as you wrap up your high school athletics career. Whatever comes next, I hope you feel love and support, follow your dreams, and know that you being you is a profound inspiration to trans and cis youth alike. With admiration and respect — GO AB!”

“AB, my name is Emily Escobar (She/Her) and I work for Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties. I just wanted to say that we are SO proud and in awe of you. You are such a special person and I applaud you for standing up for yourself against this harmful anti-trans rhetoric we continue to see from policymakers across the United States. Here at Planned Parenthood, we strongly believe that trans people deserve to thrive! And that includes the ability to participate in collegiate sports. We will continue to advocate for the trans community until things change. Best of luck, AB!”

“Good luck at your final meet AB! The last event of an academic athletic career is always full of emotions, so try to be present and enjoy it with your teammates, coaches, family, friends and fans who support and love you. We are so proud of you! Enjoy yourself and make memories! Good luck!”

“You are a great athlete and role model and deserve a thousand cheers for your high school career! We are in a dark period of US history but we have each other and we will prevail. Sending you love, strength, and congratulations!”

“Sending you love and strength. Tho I know you have plenty of strength. Remember, this too shall pass. Nothing stays the same. Endings are also beginnings. Hang in!! On day you will look back at this time and k ow you got thru! Enjoy the next meet! You got this!! Sending love from a 70 year old”

“Your strength shines far beyond the field. Thank you for fighting with courage and showing the world what true sportsmanship looks like. Your dedication and commitment to your sport, all while being authentically yourself, inspire more people than you may ever realize. You’re opening doors. You’ve become a role model for young athletes who are watching you prove what resilience and passion can achieve. Good luck tomorrow. I hope you win!!”

“While most people got to experience high school without having their identity constantly debated or questioned, you had to carry that weight while still showing up for your team, your classmates, and yourself. You deserve to be proud of everything you achieved, not just as an athlete, but as a person. There are so many people who see you, support you, and are inspired by you even if they’ve never said it out loud. This next chapter of your life belongs to you. I hope it brings you more joy, freedom, and spaces where you can simply be yourself and thrive. Congratulations!”

“I am so inspired by the example of courage and strength that you are setting for my own trans kiddo and all the thousands of kids like them. I know it is not easy for you, but it means so, so much, and I am so immensely grateful for and awed by your bravery.”

“HI AB! I’m (name redacted), I’m an incoming lgbtq freshman in CA, I am currently in a district that banned trans kids from being in their new gender sports, as well as where books have been banned, and most importantly, a district that allows hateful people participate in their board meetings, even those who aren’t in my town, I was harassed by one of These out of towners, I was called a “homosexual r3t&4D” because I interrupted her whilst she was spewing hate. I remembered what you said, and kept calm, called the police, nothing. Thank you AB, for being an amazing Icon to not just me, but mom too."

“Thank you so much for being unapologetically you. As a trans masc person who came out after college, I am so proud of you for following your heart. Your courage to do what you love and be who you are is celebrated in all corners of the world. We all appreciate you and are cheering you on! You go! - (name redacted), LA County”

“You are both a blessing and an inspiration, thank you for being yourself.”

“AB, it's been my absolute pleasure to get to know you over the last couple years. Your ability to just channel your passion into a complete focus on the field is admirable, and something that I am inspired by when facing down the transphobic hate machine. I'm so grateful to know you, and I just know that you are going to excel at anything you do in life. I hope that you get to live a life of joy as just one of the girls, and I know we're all going to keep fighting to make sure that's possible. - Kanan Durham, Pride at the Pier Director