Chastity Bono Transitioning to Chaz

Social and political activist Chastity Bono, daughter of Cher and the late Sonny Bono, announced this week that she began transition to a man shortly after her 40th birthday on March 4. He will now be known as Chaz.

Bono's publicist,Howard Bragman, said, "Chaz, after many years of consideration, has made the courageous decision to honor his true identity. He is proud of his decision and grateful for the support and respect that has already been shown by loved ones. It is Chaz's hope that his choice to transition will open the hearts and minds of the public regarding this issue, just as his coming out did nearly 20 years ago."

A source told People magazine, "Cher is very supportive and has known about Chastity wanting to do this for a very long time." "This will be a long process but it's something Chastity has wanted to do for many years."