Dear Transgender Community,
My fellow brothers, sisters, siblings, and all of the above. We are entering a scary time; you're probably scared and wondering what's going to happen. These are valid concerns, but please listen to this from a trans person to another. If you're an ally, you could probably benefit from this too.
I'm not going to sugarcoat this. I can't promise you that everything is going to be OK. These things are unknown, from the ACA repeal that could mean the discontinuing of the needed hormone replacement therapy and gender-confirming surgeries to the "religious freedom" executive order that was leaked and rumored yesterday. To sum up the order, it would basically allow businesses, education professionals, government agencies (federal, state, or local) and, employers to use religious beliefs as a reason to discriminate against and or deny services to an individual based on their LGBT status. You can read the draft text here.
"But, it hasn't been signed yet..." Yes, and could you imagine what would have happened if we just "gave him a chance," like every person was saying when he was elected. We know we can't change the election results. We aren't trying to. We're not "rooting against him" either. We're making it very clear that we're not going to put up with his fascism, we refuse to accept his hate, and we will not normalize this behavior. If he doesn't sign it, then it'll be a pleasant surprise. I grew up learning to expect the worst-case scenario and hope for the best. So if someone tries to discredit your fears because something hasn't happened yet, just let it go over your head and do what you think is right. Know that there are many non-profit organizations such as the ACLU that are constantly fighting for your rights.
Over the past couple of years, the transgender community has flourished as more and more transgender people felt safe enough to come out of the closet. Of course, your safety is a valid fear, and yes, we are still a minority. But there are more of us than you think, and a lot of us will continue fighting until you have all the rights you need to live a comfortable life.
"I'm an ally, how can I support the community?" Step one, listen to what we have to say. Don't make promises like "it'll get better" or "this will pass." For transgender people, this is our reality. We live our lives in fear. I know what you're trying to say, but there are better ways to say it. Say things like, "I know you're struggling and I'm really sorry that you feel that way. Is there any way I can support you?" Another way to be supportive is to attend the rallies, and show that you care. Fight with us, not against us.
To all the Transgender people out there, if you need your name changed, your gender changed, a passport, a new birth certificate, etc., please do it now. If you can't afford it, contact TAP (Transgender Assistance Project). They can provide you with the funds to get your documents changed, or refer you elsewhere to get that done.
Lastly, stay strong, keep fighting, practice self-care, and know that we're out there fighting and we won't stop until we win.
Sincerely,
A Fellow Trans person.
