Filling a void in the blogsphere: Monica Roberts for Transgriot
Thursday, February 28, 2013 - 4:55pm by Mari Haywood, Trans Issues Intern at GLAAD
http://www.glaad.org/blog/filling-void-blogsphere-monica-roberts-transgriotAs the first African American trans woman to create a news outlet that not only reports trans women of color issues but also showcases the leaders in the fight for equality of trans people, Monica Roberts, creator of TransGriot, is filling a void in the blogsphere. GLAAD sat down with Monica Roberts to discuss why her work at TransGriot is so important.
Mari Haywood: How were you treated initially when you decided to transition?
Monica Roberts: After starting my transition in 1993, I encountered several forms of discrimination. My most memorable incidents occurred within our own community in the early 90s. While in Houston a friend who also happens to be another black trans woman and I were denied entry to a gay nightclub. Staff at the door were really nasty and rude and stated "we don't want trannies in here, it's only for gay men." I transitioned while working for an airline. While returning home from work in my airline uniform a passenger made anti-trans comments while walking down the aisle of the airplane to their seat.
MH: As an African American trans woman, what are some life lessons or words of wisdom you would like to pass along to the younger trans community?
MR: I would like them to know that bottom line is that we do have a proud history, contrary to public opinion. We have strong individuals like Marsha P. Johnson and Alexander J. who fought and paved the way for us. Make sure that you get the foundation of a good education, because in order to get a better life you must have an education.
