Philadelphia in vanguard of transgender tolerance

[SandraJane]

Philadelphia in vanguard of transgender tolerance


By Nurit Shein | Posted: Tue, May. 29, 2012, 3:00 AM

http://articles.philly.com/2012-05-30/news/31888671_1_gender-identity-discrimination-against-transgender-people-michael-nutter

When the possibility of prohibiting discrimination against transgender people comes up, opponents often raise concerns about bathroom usage, of all things: "What about the men's and ladies' rooms?" It seems like a frivolous basis for denying an entire group of citizens their civil rights, but all too often, that's the tenor of discussions about legal protections for transgender individuals. It places little stock in our ability to assimilate, sympathize with, and simply deal with people whose experience of the world does not match our own.

Fortunately, the experience in Philadelphia has been different. Ten years ago today, Mayor John F. Street signed into law a bill expanding the city's Fair Practices Ordinance to prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity or gender expression. Passed by a wide margin in City Council, the protections apply to public accommodations, housing, and employment, and they are enforced by the city's Human Relations Commission.

[Ms Rebecca]

I think its great that the City of Phila. does not discriminate against Transgendered people,like the use of public restrooms etc.Only people who are not Transgendered think of these things.I guess to them we are The Third Sex.My own feelings are why should I use a Men's room,when I'am a Woman [appear outwardly].We still have to be aware of where we are at times.People in my area are mixed about me some are tolerant others not so much by there stares,so living in Philly does not give you a free pass.But its a start.
                                                                                                                                                           Ms Rebecca