With trans individuals representing less than 1% of the total population (in the U.S. and here in Canada), to ensure that my vulnerable, equity-seeking community enjoys the complete protection of the Charter and human rights codes (provincially), now, more than ever, we need cis allies in our communities and workplaces.
Trans individuals aren’t tokens to be collected or political objects to be used as swords or shields. We are humans with wants, needs, desires, fears, and hopes.
While here in Ontario, we haven’t yet witnessed a barrage of anti-trans legislation; however, with that said, we must only look to Saskatchewan as an example of what could happen. Every time a profoundly conservative person or party (wrongly and dangerously guided by some arcane faith) gets elected and then falls into some well-earned controversy, to evade responsibility and to shore up support from the hardliners, they propose some overt anti-trans, unconstitutional legislation, in hopes of regaining a few points and a confidence vote.
Ford, due to his proclivities, is always running headfirst into some controversy, and it is only a matter of time until he serves up my marginalized community as red meat for his savage, mouth-breathing base.
While I try to remain hopeful and thankful that we have a robust, liberally interpreted Charter, it is evident, at this point, that those on the right are exceptionally comfortable with gleefully suspending our Charter for their own personal, professional, and economic gain.
Simply knowing a trans person is not being an ally. Being an ally requires resolute action and unwavering enterprise. Merely knowing someone is resigned acknowledgement. Accepting them is the first step; Being an ally is what comes next.
If you care about being an ally, please make this pledge proactive! Here are some great tips on being an ally.
- Don’t make assumptions about a transgender person’s sexual orientation.
- Don’t ask about a transgender person’s genitals, surgical status, or sex life.
- If you don’t know what pronouns to use, listen first.
- Respect the terminology a transgender person uses to describe their identity.
- Be patient with someone questioning or exploring their gender identity.
- Don’t ask a transgender person what their “real name” is.
- Understand the differences between “coming out” as lesbian, gay, or bisexual and “coming out” as transgender.
- Understand there is no “right” or “wrong” way to transition, which is different for every person.
- Be careful about confidentiality, disclosure, and “outing.”
- Avoid backhanded compliments and “helpful” tips.
- Support all-gender public restrooms.
- Help make your company or group truly trans-inclusive.
- Learn that transgender people are not new.
And most importantly,
- Challenge anti-transgender remarks or jokes in public spaces, including 2SLGBTQQIA+ spaces.
It’s not simply enough to not be mean or make inappropriate jokes at the expense of some communities. We should recognize the hardship that those from vulnerable communities experience on a micro and macro level daily. Things will only improve for the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community if we all work together to strengthen our communities in Niagara, Ontario, and across this country.
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