Transgender Day of Remembrance – November 20
The word transgender is a term used to describe people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. They may use the term to describe themselves as transgender, trans sexual, or non-binary. Trying to change their gender identity won’t work. It is about who they are and being happy and whole – not who you are attracted to. Most people will try to align their bodies with their gender identity. They will go through a transition and will be identified as a transgender person. Many will take hormone therapy and some will possibly undergo surgery. Some may choose not to, due to financial constraints.
Like everyone else, Trans people can be straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual or queer. They may choose to keep their birth name or select a new name. Never use their previous name, or use before transition pictures unless you have their permission. Ask them what pronouns they want you to use (he/him, she/her, ze/zer)
Be patient with those who are questioning and exploring their gender identity. Transitioning may be different for every person. Do not ask invasive questions, or give advice unless asked.
Things everyone can do:
- CHALLENGE anti-transgender remarks. It is important to stand up against verbal, physical, and sexual abuse.
- SUPPORT all-gender rest rooms. They must feel welcome to use which one they feel comfortable.
- IMPLEMENT trans friendly policies in the community (medical/housing/work)
- BE INCLUSIVE at meetings and events. Ask for “the person in the blue shirt” as opposed to “the woman in front”.
- LISTEN AND GET INFORMED of the issues people face through personal contact, books, and films.
- KNOW YOUR LIMITS to help.
- TREAT ALL PEOPLE EQUALLY. Use respect and be confidential.
A 2015 USA study revealed that Trans people face 29% poverty, 30% homelessness, and discrimination and violence. Their unemployment is 4 times the rate of the general population. 30% face workplace mistreatment, and 40% attempt suicide. Greater than 325 known transgender people world wide were killed in 2017. Currently, Canada does not track this statistic. Bill C-16 does give federal protection for transgender Canadians.
Regrettably, the bible has played and been used as a role in the discrimination against many people at different times. It has been known to foster a climate of spiritual abuse through power and authority. LGBTQ people are still one of the demographics that feel this discrimination. We need to help resolve the God V.S. Gay rights dispute and not be participants in religious homophobia. We must embrace all humanity by being diverse and inclusive.
There is currently a call for a Health Canada ban on conversion therapy. You can help by signing an online petition that will be presented in the House of Commons. This is to outlaw the act of coercing or counselling minors or using unwanted medication to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity and to prohibit this being done in Canada or another country. Please take a moment to sign this petition.
So, on November 20, we remember all the transgender lives that were tragically lost. May we continue to fight for all transgender rights to life.
References:
Glaad.org
CBC.ca
Bishop Shelby Spong