Ep 3. Partner Up

After a successful launch of season 1, "I am Cait" returned for a second season in early 2016. Episode 3, titled "Partner Up," features Caitlyn Jenner and her friends on a road trip to San Francisco's "gay capital of the world". While the trip initially comes across as an excuse to tour around, it becomes clear that the group is on a mission -- to learn about the experiences of LGBT people of color and gain a deeper understanding of intersectionality.

This episode is an introspective one, filled with heartfelt conversations and self-reflection. The personal stories and experiences of the various people featured are highlighted in a way that allows the audience to gain a deeper appreciation for the issues that the trans and queer communities face. Nevertheless, “Partner Up” retains elements of Jenner's signature humor and grace, making for an engaging and enlightening viewing experience.

Throughout the course of the episode, Caitlyn and her friends are exposed to underrepresented voices that they may not have otherwise encountered in their day-to-day lives. They meet with a representative from the AIDS Foundation, who shares some of the organization's lesser-known but vital work, such as providing housing assistance to people with HIV/AIDS. Additionally, they attend a dinner party that features a mix of LGBT people of color. Emotions run high as attendees share their personal experiences of homophobia and racism, as well as their thoughts on intersectionality within the community. For many in attendance, it's an opportunity to share candidly and listen deeply, in an environment that feels safe and supportive.

One of the standout moments of the episode is when actress Candis Cayne shares her own story with Caitlyn. Cayne's story is one of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. She speaks to the difficulty of being a transgender woman of color, and the added challenges that brings, both in her personal life and in the entertainment industry. Cayne's frankness and willingness to share her experience, along with the candor of others throughout the episode, speak to the importance of diverse representation within the media.

Another poignant moment comes when Caitlyn visits the infamous Alcatraz prison with trans activist Bamby Salcedo. Salcedo shares a particularly heartbreaking story of constantly being targeted by police officers and experiencing police brutality as a trans woman of color. It's a sobering reminder that the fight for equality is far from over, and also serves as a call to action for cis-gender individuals to stand up against the systemic injustices that trans and queer people face.

Overall, "Partner Up" presents a nuanced and thoughtful exploration of the intersectionality within the LGBT community. With its focus on personal stories and diverse perspectives, the episode feels like a meaningful step forward in the conversation surrounding trans and queer issues. While Caitlyn herself may not be the most authoritative voice on these topics, her willingness to listen and learn speaks volumes about the importance of allyship.