In a revealing new memoir titled The Klansman’s Son: My Journey from White Nationalism to Antiracism, R. Derek Black, once known as a figurehead of American white nationalism, has come out as transgender. The memoir, which traces Black’s journey away from the extremist ideologies of their family, also delves into their personal experiences with gender identity. According to the New York Post, Black discusses how they were often mistaken for a girl in childhood while involved in activities for their father’s KKK chapter, a role that haunted yet subtly affirmed their gender identity. It wasn’t until attending New College of Florida, known for its progressive student body, that Black began to explore and accept their gender identity openly.