5 Ways to Support Trans People Who Don’t “Pass” for Cis

[suzifrommd]

5 Ways to Support Trans People Who Don't "Pass" for Cis

Posted on August 6, 2015
by Princess Harmony Rodriguez

http://www.blackgirldangerous.org/2015/08/5-ways-to-support-trans-people-who-dont-pass-for-cis/

"I couldn't even tell you were born male!"

"You should get (insert surgery) which will help you pass!!"

At some point in trans people's lives, we may hear one of these two sentences. Or possibly both. I know I've heard both. People will either try to compliment me by complimenting my "passability" or they insult me by suggesting a surgery that – apparently – they think I've never heard of. Because there are few times where I don't "pass", I learned to recognize passing as a privilege that – consistent or not – shields us from most of the violence that trans women are known to receive. Trans people, particularly trans women of color, who don't "pass" for cis deserve protection and support. Here are a few ways that you can support trans people who don't pass.

[stephaniec]

I always feel that acceptance of being transgender and healing yourself  is the key for the individual and the community to move forward.

[Ms Grace]

The issue of "passing" is like Damocles Sword - always hanging over our head and making it difficult for many to enjoy their new lives.

It's an interesting article - but it seems the only way it would ever work is if society dumped the concept of gender and beauty altogether.

[iKate]

I always feel that acceptance of being transgender and healing yourself  is the key for the individual and the community to move forward.

In order to do that I need to reach a stage where I am comfortable with myself. That will only be when I pass consistently.