Five Attributes of Trans Allies

[Natasha]

Five Attributes of Trans Allies

http://tranifesto.com/2013/04/15/five-attributes-of-trans-allies/
4/15/13
Matt Kailey



Last week in my Transgender Studies class, and also at a Diversity Day presentation that I made on the Auraria Campus, we talked about allies.

In my opinion, allies are an important component of any group. They add numbers, they add voices, and in some cases, they bring a certain amount of power that is lacking because of the way that a particular group is seen in the "mainstream," where the group is trying to gain at least equality, if not acceptance.

That last contribution is unfortunate, but true. Without allies, many groups would not be able to move forward as rapidly and as successfully as they do with outside support. Allies are an important component of any movement. I have written about allies before, but I think it's always a good time to revisit the topic, so I would like to outline what I consider to be five important attributes of trans allies:

Fixed broken picture link

[Vicky]

Excellent points that need to be kept in mind by the Trans population as well!!

[Jamie D]

1. A trans ally acknowledges his/her/hir own power and privilege and is aware of it, but also acknowledges ours...

2. A trans ally speaks up for us, but doesn't speak for us...

3. A trans ally utilizes books, websites, films, conferences, and other resources to learn about the trans community, in addition to asking questions of trans people when it is appropriate...

4. A trans ally works for inclusion, not just diversity...

5. A trans ally works to forward trans equality even when trans people aren't around...

[gennee]

Great points. In regard to number 5, trans people are taking charge of their own situations now. I'm happy that allies will help, but transgender people need to be more visible and open.