[Blog/Commentary] [Canada] “My Identity, My Right”

[Stephanie Stevens]

Montreal Gazette, Canada


TRANS TALK

“My Identity, My Right”

June 6, 2012. 12:38 am • Section: Trans Talk

Posted by: Jillian Page


There’s no doubt that transgenderism is one of the hottest topics in
the news these days. The media just can’t get enough of trans-related
stories. And many of those articles draw a lot of heated discussion
and comments from readers, many of whom are opposed to transgenderism.

In light of recent progress made in Argentina — which allows people to
change name and sex based simply on how they feel, without any forms
of approval from anyone else — I wish to remind all of my trans
readers and their supporters that you don’t owe the general public any
explanations or apologies for your transgenderism or transsexualism.
Religious fundamentalists, RadFems et al are entitled to their
opinions about trans stuff — to a point — but those opinions are
irrelevant: You owe them nothing.There’s no need to try to convert
them to your way of thinking, or to tell them to mind their own
business. Just hit the “ignore” key, literally or figuratively, when
their negativity gets you down.

Of course, when it comes to being oppressed by people who oppose
transgenderism, that’s another matter. Then it’s time to take a stand.
But trans people already know that . . . Smiles . . . You are doing
very well, sisters and brothers. You are making progress by leaps and
bounds.

First we take Argentina, then we take the world . . .

Cheers

Jillian

P.S. The title of this post was inspired by a citizen of Argentina
carrying a sign, photographed by the Associated Press. You can see the
photo and read an article on the CBC`s website
<http://www.cbc.ca/news/yourcommunity/2012/06/could-argentinas-groundbreaking-gender-law-work-in-canada.html>
.


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