Ep 4. Little Miss Westie

In the episode "Little Miss Westie" of the documentary series America ReFramed, viewers are introduced to a family living in the small town of West Haven, Connecticut. The backdrop of the story is the annual Little Miss Westie pageant, a local event that celebrates the beauty and talent of young girls in the area. But for the two main protagonists of the film, 11-year-old Ren and her older brother Luca, the pageant means much more than that.

Ren and Luca are both transgender, and the pageant is their chance to show the world who they truly are. Ren, who was born as a boy but identifies as a girl, dreams of one day becoming Little Miss Westie. Her brother Luca, who also identifies as a girl, is her biggest cheerleader and support system. Together, they navigate the challenges of growing up transgender in a society that often misunderstands and rejects them.

As the film follows Ren and Luca's journey towards the pageant, viewers get a glimpse into their daily lives and the struggles they face. Ren talks openly about her desire to have surgery to transition physically, while Luca grapples with the emotional toll of being bullied at school. Their parents, who are both supportive but also facing their own challenges, have to balance their desire to protect their children with the need to prepare them for the harsh realities of the world.

But despite the hurdles they face, Ren and Luca are determined to be themselves and live their lives to the fullest. They practice their dance routines, choose their pageant outfits, and dream of the day when they can be proud of who they are. And in the end, their hard work pays off, as they take the stage at the Little Miss Westie pageant and show the judges what true beauty and talent look like.

"Little Miss Westie" is a heartwarming and inspiring documentary that sheds light on the experiences of transgender youth and their families. It celebrates the resilience and bravery of Ren and Luca, as well as their parents' unwavering love and support. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by the transgender community and the power of love and acceptance to overcome them.