31/03/2024
TRANSGENDER DAY OF VISIBILITY
The past few years have ushered in an unprecedented shift in gender politics, resulting in some fiery conversations and an ever evolving dialogue.
Start by learning this word:
Cisgender (often abbreviated to simply cis) is a term for people whose experiences of their own gender agree with the s*x they were assigned at birth.
Here are ten steps you can take to show your support:
1. Don’t tolerate disrespect
Whether it’s hurtful language, remarks or jokes, call it out if it’s inappropriate.
2. Respect pronouns
Not sure which he/she/they pronouns someone uses? Just ask! Then use that pronoun and encourage others to do so.
3. Be patient with those questioning their gender identity
A person who’s questioning their gender identity might shift back and forth as they find out what’s best for them.
4. Don't police public loos
Gender-variant people may not match the signs on toilet doors. If there are no all-gender toilets available, offer to accompany a trans person in a buddy system so they’re less vulnerable.
5. Listen to trans voices
One of the most important parts of being an ally is learning what it means to be transgender.
6. Don’t assume you can tell if someone is transgender
Transgender and non-binary people don’t all look a certain way.
7. Be careful about confidentiality, disclosure, and outing
If someone has shared their gender identity with you, don’t tell others. Not only is this an invasion of privacy, but it can also have devastating consequences in a world that can be intolerant of gender differences.
8. Use gender-neutral language
Consider using gender inclusive language like “hi friends”, or “welcome folks”.
9. Keep it appropriate
Don’t ask trans folks about their ge****ls, surgical status or s*x lives. If you wouldn’t ask a cisgender person, don’t ask a trans person either!
10. Declare it
We all have a social media presence - add "I am a trans ally" to your biog.