As LGBTQ+ Pride month continues, there may be some who read this who are thinking that equality has been achieved and discrimination is no more. Sadly, my friends, I must disagree. While there have been great advances, the LGBTQ+ community is still one of the most discriminated against groups and that is especially true for the T (transgender).
Some of the negativity is a result of what I call unintentional stupidity. Sometimes people say or do things without thinking or without really being aware. This is the first group that really needs to be educated because a trans man is a man. Period. Nothing else needs to be said. A trans woman is a woman. Same thing. End of discussion. This is not rocket science folks. Also, people are never referred to as it. Use the names and pronouns that are appropriate to an individual's gender identity and if you are in doubt, ask. Trans people are people - just like all people and deserve to be treated as such.
What's between your legs? You certainly would not someone asking you that question, yet transgender people are asked that so often it amazes me. It's none of your business. Don’t make assumptions about a transgender person’s sexual orientation or whether they have had hormonal or surgical treatment or anything else of that personal a nature. Think about it. You don't ask private personal questions of people. Some things you learn over time because you care about each other, but personal things come after trust and respect.
The mean-spirited and hateful legislation that has come out in the past year is disgusting. So much of it is aimed at young people. Show some respect. Kids need our love and our support, not laws saying they can't play sports because of their gender identity. That's ridiculous.
There is no way I can do a full and complete guide to interacting with transgender people. Oh wait! It's already been said. People are people. Throw out the discrimination. Embrace equality. Treat people as people.
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