On being “Out”

[Shana A]

On being "Out"
On March 8, 2010, In Essays, By Dyssonance

http://www.dyssonance.com/?p=1362

As I've made sure to mention often, I am an out trans woman.

In the time that I've gained whatever meager attention I've somehow earned over the 3 years of writing this blog and its antecedents, I've had people tell me all sorts of things about being out.

I've had them tell me it embarasses them.

I've had then tell me it will get me killed.

I've had then tell me that I'm going to be forever labeled as "not woman".

I've had them tell me it's a mistake.

[Suzy]

One of the ways that stigma was overcome was I embraced it — I took that rejection and made it a mark of individuality, of personal indifference. I reclaimed it.

I found that line very inspiring.


Kristi