Hunky Trans Model Laith Ashley Is a Knockout on the Cover of Attitude

Model Laith Ashley covers the June issue of Attitude magazine, along with out champion canoeist Matt Lister.

Ashley first came to our collective attention in Barneys New York's groundbreaking Brother, Sisters, Sons & Daughters campaign, shot by Bruce Weber and featuring other models who happened to be trans. However, as he tells trans activist Paris Lees, the spotlight had a darker side.

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"People were really nasty and for about three weeks I just couldn't stop reading the comments," Ashley said of the Instagram trolls. "I knew I shouldn't have, but I kept reading and the more I read, the worse the comments got.

"I've learned that you can't please everyone."

Well, fuck everyone 'cause we're pleased. But, as he went on to reveal, Laith learned to love himself and ignore the haters through therapy.

"I would self-destruct, I would disappear because I didn't want to be here. For a long time I prayed to God to let me die," he said. "I'd think I hate life, hate being trans, hate the world. I was very negative. I still struggle with that from time to time but remind myself I'm pretty blessed. I have a family who [is] supportive. They may not agree with who I am, but they do love me. I had the privilege of going to school. I have the privilege of this experience. I love who I see in the mirror now."

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The June issue of Attitude is out now on digital and in print on May 25. You can order your copy here.