Michel René Huff is experienced and lawyer and who works to ensure justice and diversity in his community. He took a moment to share his work with Oakland pride and thoughts on transitioning later in life.
Q You transitioned later in life, how did you decide to finally start living authentically?
A: A 70-ish psychologist friend of mine, incidentally a staunch Republican, asked me if I had ever considered that I might be transgender and I had but only briefly as it was not very common for my generation as far as I knew.
Q Were there any special difficulties in coming out later in life?
A: The most special difficulty was protecting my identity. I had worked hard to establish a stellar reputation in law enforcement and the legal profession. I was afraid to lose myself if others were unable or unwilling to grow and transition with me.
Q Do you think coming out helped you be a better advocate for your clients?
A: I think that, although I have always been a passionate advocate, coming out (again) helped me realize that there are many times throughout life that we need others to help us create the life of our dreams. That feeling of vulnerability continues to remind me of my clients’ position when they retain me to represent them.
Q You are an advocate of the community, do you have any role models that inspire you?
A: Attorney John Burris of Burris Law in Oakland has been an inspiration for well over a decade. He is tireless in his fight for justice and his knowledge of civil rights law is beyond reproach.
Q You are the president of Oakland pride. What insights have you gained about the community since taking on that role?
A: Since taking on the role of president of Oakland Pride, I have gained insights about how closely connected and interdependent we are on one another. Oakland rises to the occasion year after year to ensure our respective roots are deeply secured within our community. Sponsorship, elected officials’ and corporate support have been leading the way.
Q You have a background in law enforcement as well as defending people from the system, having been in both positions what do you think you learned from representing both sides?
A: I learned that the truth always finds a way.
Q} if people want more info about you or other resources that might be helpful regarding their legal rights where should they go?
www.hufflegal.com (website)
@gethuff1 (IG)
https://www.facebook.com/michelrene.huff/ (FB)
833-GET-HUFF (438-4833)
Final four questions –we ask everybody
Q) When the zombies take over the world where will you be?
A: Cultivating friendly zombies OR slaying them.
Q ) What is your favorite Fandom
A: Alas, I am a fan of Universal Laws (and Game of Thrones!)
Q) What piece of art, be it in the form of music, a book, a film or picture, do you think people must experience before they die?
A: Neville Goddard lectures
Q) Give one fact that most people would not believe about you?
A: I am shy.