(WHAS 11) – At the Big Purple Barn in Bowie, Xander Martin is like any other kid. The 10-year-old can be seen playing with the animals, climbing fences, and marching through the mud. It’s Xander’s escape. “There’s no being bullied here,” Xander said. “And only a couple true slip-ups.” Slip-ups happen a lot. The Bowie native identifies as non-binary, meaning Xander doesn’t feel like a boy or a girl.
Xander uses the pronouns “they,” “them,” and “their.” “I am who I am,” Xander said. “Now I’m just coming out.” It’s a life that many don’t understand, and it’s lead to a lot of pain for Xander. The pre-teen is no stranger to ridicule and bullying. That’s why WUSA9 was invited to shadow Xander for months, through the ups and downs. READ MORE