(KNX 1070) -- A new Gillette ad is challenging traditional gender norms with a video showing transgender activist Samson Bonkeabantu Brown and his father going through the rite of passage of a "man's" first shave.
“I always knew I was different. I didn’t know that there was a term for the type of person that I was,” Brown says in the advertisement. “I went into my transition just wanting to be happy. I’m glad that I am at the point where I’m able to shave.”
Brown's father talks him through the process in front of the bathroom mirror, encouraging his son to take his time, and be fearless.
In one heartwarming moment, Brown says, “I’m at the point in my manhood where I’m actually happy." Adding that, “It’s not just myself transitioning, it’s everybody around me transitioning.”
Brown said in a Facebook post that he shot the ad for Gillette to highlight the support he received from his family that other trans men and women may not be as lucky to have.
“I am confident that this ad will encourage many of my trans siblings and fill them with the knowledge that our existence in this world can be filled with the love and support we deserve.”
“Be good to yourselves. Love yourselves. And know that when you greet the world with love, it can and will love you back, often in the places you least expect,” he concluded. “I love you greatly.”
The video has gotten mixed reviews on social media, with some saying they'll leave the company after seeing the video.