I was born a biological girl, and I’ve always thought of myself as a girl. I’ve never had to question my gender identity, and while I may not be the most girly or feminine woman around, that doesn’t change the fact that I am still a girl. But this isn’t the case for everyone.
It’s estimated that 1.6 percent of adults and 5 percent of young adults in the U.S. – roughly 3 million citizens – identify as transgender or non-binary. All those people, as well as those who may still be in the closet or who are taking the time to explore their identity, are now in danger of getting not just their healthcare but also their basic dignity and respect revoked by the current administration.
So much hate has been thrown at the trans population over the past few years, and as far as I’m concerned, there is absolutely no need for it. The trans population is not out there trying to force others to transition, nor are they trying to do anything else that anti-trans advocates claim. Nearly everyone who uses a public restroom is literally JUST trying to use the restroom, and those who aren’t won’t be stopped by a simple sign anyway, regardless of their gender identity.
The only thing that a trans person wants from others is the same thing that every other person wants: respect. To be seen and respected as a person. To have someone respect them enough to use their preferred name and pronouns. To just be allowed to live their life and simply be happy – and isn’t that supposed to be one of this country’s core beliefs? Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness? You don’t have to fully understand what it means to be trans or non-binary to give that respect either, you just have to offer a basic amount of empathy.
I understand the confusion that can be felt when trying to discuss a topic as complex as gender identity, but instead of using that confusion and discomfort as an excuse to force others into a life that, for some, is worse than death, maybe we should instead try to figure out why the topic is so important for the trans community.
We have the power of the internet at our fingertips, and while I’m sure we’ll see some instances of attempted erasure and censorship in the coming years, there’s currently nothing stopping us from searching out the answers that will allow us all to come to that point of understanding. Trans stories, trans biographies, and trans perspectives can all be found if you’re willing to look for them.
They’ve always been out there, after all, even before the internet. Trans people have always existed, and they will continue to exist regardless of how much or how little support they have. Though, if you ask me, just as everyone is deserving of respect, everyone is also deserving of support. We have the power to be the shoulder someone leans on during their worst days, we just have to put forth some effort and a little bit of empathy.
Andrea Grubaugh is a reporter for the West Liberty Index and the Wilton-Durant Advocate News. Contact her at adnews@netwtc.net