Susan's Place Transgender Resources

The midterm are now over. What does that mean for our safety and OUR progression as Transgender people in this country. I gotta say, it was kind of another disappointing election cycle but I guess we should be fine for another 2 years.....so yay there???


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Quote from: PhoenixGurl2016 on November 07, 2018, 08:41:53 AM
The midterm are now over. What does that mean for our safety and OUR progression as Transgender people in this country. I gotta say, it was kind of another disappointing election cycle but I guess we should be fine for another 2 years.....so yay there???


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@PhoenixGurl2016
The election results were mixed so not all is disappointing and not all is a victory for anyone following this stuff.

My advice to any of those that think that these mid-term election changes in the legislative and political powers will result in instant or fast positive actions and/or possible quick problems are expecting too much, too fast. 

This is this is kinda like a big and heavy ship going down the Mississippi River, a new captain can take the wheel and turn it one way or the other, and nothing happens quickly... it takes a long time for the ship to start turning and the wheel can be turned the other direction and again nothing happens quickly.   

So, bottom line, do not despair.  Just my opinion, that is all.

Hugs and best wishes,
Danielle

Hopefully this means that whatever the truth is, it won't be swept under the rug. I'll go with what the facts tell us. Interesting concept, facts. A positive is also that there will be way more women. A negative is that the judicial branch is at risk of being packed with people who will limit trans rights. That is my biggest fear.

Did I say limit, I meant eliminate.

While I'm happy that there will be some level of pushback in government, I think things will probably get worse for us before they get better. I have a hunch that the trump administration is going to go forward with their "redefinition." The ACLU has already promised to sue as soon as that happens and it will probably be stuck in the courts for a few years.

I think our best bet is to try to get involved at the state level, since that's where we can actually hope for progress in the next few years. I spent the past couple of weekends volunteering with a Democrat congressional campaign near where I live. I was operating out of a satellite office so I didn't interact with the candidate, but the people running the office were very much affected by my story. Especially in state rep elections where the areas are small, volunteering would be a good way to "get a seat at the table," so to speak.

Just my $.02

Trump's administration will move forward with trying to put the trans genie back in the bottle.  The House will likely bring legislation forward to specifically include LGBTQ in non-discrimination protection.  We will continue to be in the news.  It might even pass out of the House.  The Senate will stonewall it so it is never even considered by them for a vote.  This issue really needs to be dealt with by definitive legislation amending civil rights laws.  Unfortunately, I do not see that happening in the foreseeable future.

Meanwhile, any move by the administration to strip us of our gains, mostly in court decisions, will be vigorously challenged in the courts.  It will take, likely, years to resolve.  I really have no idea how the SCOTUS will go with this because the environment of knowledge about ->-bleeped-<-, and how we are viewed by society, at large, will, I hope, improve by the time the case gets that far.  Some of the cases in the pipeline might settle the issue, one way or the other, before a challenge to the administration's actions get that far.

In my humble opinion, we need to be a positive influence in our communities, putting our collective "best foot forward" but without apology for who we are.  People need to hear us, see us, but no one responds well to being screamed at by someone that is up in their face.  Our personal stories, recounted one on one, are our most effective means of affecting change in people's attitudes.  Remember, there are some that will never be swayed.  But there are more than enough in the middle that can be brought around so that the unreachable can be, largely, marginalized into irrelevance.

That is my $0.02.  You can keep the change.
Stevi

The House going democratic is a good thing for all LGBTA people. Now the government is not Republican dominated. I anticipate that Trump will have many problems getting done what he wants to do.

From my knowledge, the House can stop the redefinition of gender and keep transgender healthcare.

Edit: I live in Nebraska and we just approved Expanded Medicare and will definitely help lower-income transgender people receive care.

Quote from: Alaskan Danielle on November 07, 2018, 09:13:32 AM


This is this is kinda like a big and heavy ship going down the Mississippi River, a new captain can take the wheel and turn it one way or the other, and nothing happens quickly... it takes a long time for the ship to start turning and the wheel can be turned the other direction and again nothing happens quickly.   

So, bottom line, do not despair.  Just my opinion, that is all.

Hugs and best wishes,
Danielle

I live on the Mississippi, and we have barges that pass by everyday! That is a very powerful analogy.

I think the results were realistic as to what I expected. The fact that one party doesn't control every branch is a good thing. I reckon we will continue reading the same negative thoughts and actions from those that already oppose the community. The way I see, we managed to get some more voices in Congress and every little bit helps.

As has already been said, any decisions that will effect us negatively will immediately ignite legal battles. We need to continue making people around us aware that we are still human and need allies. I have seen changes in entertainment and media that is bringing the Transgender community into the spotlight. We all have the responsibility to represent our collective in a positive manner, and not back down.

Strength in numbers!
Lacy

Quote from: RealLacy on November 07, 2018, 09:56:04 AM
I live on the Mississippi, and we have barges that pass by every day! That is a very powerful analogy.

I think the results were realistic as to what I expected. The fact that one party doesn't control every branch is a good thing. I reckon we will continue reading the same negative thoughts and actions from those that already oppose the community. The way I see, we managed to get some more voices in Congress and every little bit helps.

As has already been said, any decisions that will affect us negatively will immediately ignite legal battles. We need to continue making people around us aware that we are still human and need allies. I have seen changes in entertainment and media that are bringing the Transgender community into the spotlight. We all have the responsibility to represent our collective in a positive manner, and not back down.

Strength in numbers!
Lacy

Sometimes little steps are all that can be done. Nebraska went solid Republican but still approved Expanded Medicaid.

QuoteNebraska went solid Republican but still approved Expanded Medicaid.

Again, it is the people in the middle that can be persuaded.  There are plenty of Republicans that understand it is important to help take care of those who are struggling to take care of themselves.  Many of them will play well with others who are respectful of their concerns on how to best do that.  Question- Can we play well with them?

Another $0.02.  At this rate, I'll go broke in no time.
Stevi

Quote from: Alaskan Danielle on November 07, 2018, 09:13:32 AM
@PhoenixGurl2016
The election results were mixed so not all is disappointing and not all is a victory for anyone following this stuff.

My advice to any of those that think that these mid-term election changes in the legislative and political powers will result in instant or fast positive actions and/or possible quick problems are expecting too much, too fast. 

This is this is kinda like a big and heavy ship going down the Mississippi River, a new captain can take the wheel and turn it one way or the other, and nothing happens quickly... it takes a long time for the ship to start turning and the wheel can be turned the other direction and again nothing happens quickly.   

So, bottom line, do not despair.  Just my opinion, that is all.

Hugs and best wishes,
Danielle

Yup. I use a hippo on roller skates analogy. Hard to get moving, but once it is, hard to stop or change direction. :).


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I was disappointed in Vermont. I thought they were liberal there.


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Who cares, I mean seriously? I transitioned 20+ years ago when there was no protections, no nothing and despite that I managed to do alright for myself in the next few decades. I didn't need laws or anything else, just my own wits. No one is going to put a gun to your head and tell you can't take hormones or have SRS surgery, so who cares? Just live your life and be happy.

I'm going to say something that might be taken the wrong way, but I really want to get this off my chest. I actually voted against the transgender protections in Massachusetts. I did it because I don't want people to be compelled to like me at work or anywhere else. I want them to like me because I am a fun person to be around with a great sense of humor. I would much rather know that someone actively despises me or refuses to give me a job than to have them offer me the job at gunpoint and turn a work environment into a hostile one. I personally like knowing where I stand with people. Anti-discrimination laws turn life into darkened corridors whisper and conversations and I don't want to be part of that.

I would hope that disparate opinions are welcome because that's how people learn by perhaps questioning assumptions.

The coverage of the US midterms over here (UK) really hasn't touched on transgender issues. What they are saying is that with the loss of ability to work within the legislature, the President will likely concentrate on foreign policy, which is essentially his domain to do what he wants.

ZumbaGirl,

I get much of what you say.  I do not want to be around people who don't want me around them.  I am not one to go out and make trouble just for the h@!! of it.  But what happens when you have little other choice?  When everywhere you turn, there are no good options.  I am not talking about our transition, therapy.  I am talking about our jobs, our housing, our healthcare unrelated to our transition.  You know, day to day life where we might be denied common respect as human beings anywhere by anyone.  There must be a level of bad behavior against us that justifies making a big fuss, don't you think?

A rhetorical question.  Would you have written something like this to Rosa Parks?

I am not trying to be a B*&^$ about it.  I do see something valid in both perspectives.

Stevi

Quote from: Stevi on November 07, 2018, 10:22:29 AM
Another $0.02.  At this rate, I'll go broke in no time.
Stevi

Especially since you aren't taking into account inflation!

Lacy

Hugs,
Lacy

Quote from: Zumbagirl on November 07, 2018, 12:33:54 PM
Who cares, I mean seriously? I transitioned 20+ years ago when there was no protections, no nothing and despite that I managed to do alright for myself in the next few decades. I didn't need laws or anything else, just my own wits. No one is going to put a gun to your head and tell you can't take hormones or have SRS surgery, so who cares? Just live your life and be happy.

I'm going to say something that might be taken the wrong way, but I really want to get this off my chest. I actually voted against the transgender protections in Massachusetts. I did it because I don't want people to be compelled to like me at work or anywhere else. I want them to like me because I am a fun person to be around with a great sense of humor. I would much rather know that someone actively despises me or refuses to give me a job than to have them offer me the job at gunpoint and turn a work environment into a hostile one. I personally like knowing where I stand with people. Anti-discrimination laws turn life into darkened corridors whisper and conversations and I don't want to be part of that.

I would hope that disparate opinions are welcome because that's how people learn by perhaps questioning assumptions.

Yes you have a right to your opinion. I respectfully disagree on having laws to protect LGBT people. Without legal protection that you wouldn't lose your job, many people might be stopped from even coming out. They have less chance to do the job as themselves, to earn respect and be self made. I am trying to picture where civil rights for African Americans would be today if the protection laws had not been passed. Let's set up the laws so there are consequences to ignorant (whatever word one wants to use) behavior. I'm a big Girl, if someone wants to be hostile, okay, but if they violate ethical behavior in the workplace, let them face the consequences. Also, being kicked out of one's rented house for being trans? Do trans people need to live in fear that that is a legal possibility? No.
I hope I stated my disagreement in a respectful manner. Nothing personal to you.
Monica

Quote from: Zumbagirl on November 07, 2018, 12:33:54 PM
Who cares, I mean seriously? I transitioned 20+ years ago when there was no protections, no nothing and despite that I managed to do alright for myself in the next few decades. I didn't need laws or anything else, just my own wits. No one is going to put a gun to your head and tell you can't take hormones or have SRS surgery, so who cares? Just live your life and be happy.

I'm going to say something that might be taken the wrong way, but I really want to get this off my chest. I actually voted against the transgender protections in Massachusetts. I did it because I don't want people to be compelled to like me at work or anywhere else. I want them to like me because I am a fun person to be around with a great sense of humor. I would much rather know that someone actively despises me or refuses to give me a job than to have them offer me the job at gunpoint and turn a work environment into a hostile one. I personally like knowing where I stand with people. Anti-discrimination laws turn life into darkened corridors whisper and conversations and I don't want to be part of that.

I would hope that disparate opinions are welcome because that's how people learn by perhaps questioning assumptions.

My understanding is that the protections go further than just employment; they also protect bathroom useage and gender marker change, among other things. There's more at stake than just employment, some of which may be more difficult to avoid than simply switching jobs. Correct me if I'm wrong.

Additionally, if you're displeased with how you are treated or what others think of you at work, you can still voluntarily quit if you want. However, with the protection in place, it means that a transgender person has a better chance of retaining their job if changing jobs isn't an option.

It's just, ah, don't take this the wrong way, but it sounds like you voted against it to make a statement and the outcome doesn't actually affect you very much. Someone with fewer job opportunities or a more hostile community may have a more practical purpose in mind.

Quote from: Zumbagirl on November 07, 2018, 12:33:54 PM
Who cares, I mean seriously? I transitioned 20+ years ago when there was no protections, no nothing and despite that I managed to do alright for myself in the next few decades. I didn't need laws or anything else, just my own wits. No one is going to put a gun to your head and tell you can't take hormones or have SRS surgery, so who cares? Just live your life and be happy.

I'm going to say something that might be taken the wrong way, but I really want to get this off my chest. I actually voted against the transgender protections in Massachusetts. I did it because I don't want people to be compelled to like me at work or anywhere else. I want them to like me because I am a fun person to be around with a great sense of humor. I would much rather know that someone actively despises me or refuses to give me a job than to have them offer me the job at gunpoint and turn a work environment into a hostile one. I personally like knowing where I stand with people. Anti-discrimination laws turn life into darkened corridors whisper and conversations and I don't want to be part of that.

I would hope that disparate opinions are welcome because that's how people learn by perhaps questioning assumptions.

Well... This is certainly interesting. It sounds to me that you have all the resources needed to transition to the level that you desire. Lucky you. Lucky me I can too. I would never vote against human rights for transgendered people.

There are many people who need protection. They need insurance to pay for medications. They need workforce protection. Not everyone has resources available and it is not always their fault.

It sounds to me that you are possibly holding people to a standard that not everyone can reach. Not everyone is strong-minded enough to blaze a trail through discrimination and hate. And why should they have to persevere the discrimination and hate? Why make them go through what you had to go through.

This seems to be a bitter response.

While I am glad to see the various opinions expressed here, it is important that we keep this thread's discussion on a cordial and respectful level just as it has been done so far in this thread. 

Best thing to do when writing a reply post on hot-button topics like politics and religion is to NOT click the send button right away....

...go get a cup of coffee and then come back and re-read some of the comments prior to your reply post, then again re-read your reply post, make any changes that would eliminate any possibly perceived insults and any possibly perceived demeaning statements.... and when satisfied, SEND IT !!!

Just my opinion, that is all....
Hugs to all,
Danielle

Quote from: Alaskan Danielle on November 07, 2018, 02:34:43 PM
While I am glad to see the various opinions expressed here, it is important that we keep this thread's discussion on a cordial and respectful level just as it has been done so far in this thread. 

Best thing to do when writing a reply post on hot-button topics like politics and religion is to NOT click the send button right away....

...go get a cup of coffee and then come back and re-read some of the comments prior to your reply post, then again re-read your reply post, make any changes that would eliminate any possibly perceived insults and any possibly perceived demeaning statements.... and when satisfied, SEND IT !!!

Just my opinion, that is all....
Hugs to all,
Danielle

Thank you Danielle, I was about to say the same.  It was starting to become inflamed. 
Best to reflect on language used, by taking a half step back.

Jessica

Quote from: Zumbagirl on November 07, 2018, 12:33:54 PM
Who cares, I mean seriously? I transitioned 20+ years ago when there was no protections, no nothing and despite that I managed to do alright for myself in the next few decades.

I would suggest the 25+ Trans people who have been murdered this year in the USA...I would guess they probably would have cared. But they can't...


Liz

Quote from: Zumbagirl on November 07, 2018, 12:33:54 PM
Who cares, I mean seriously? I transitioned 20+ years ago when there was no protections, no nothing and despite that I managed to do alright for myself in the next few decades. I didn't need laws or anything else, just my own wits. No one is going to put a gun to your head and tell you can't take hormones or have SRS surgery, so who cares? Just live your life and be happy.

There are two ways of looking at this. Primarily we all want to live a normal life as our identified gender. I do applaud your courage having gone through this process 20 years ago and I am grateful for every single transgender before me since you all have paved the way for us who only recently discovered our identity.
Some of what I am about to write is primarily focused on the US, I know things are different in other countries.

There is, however, one difference why it matters much more today, especially in the US. Several years ago, being transgender was just not a topic in the public. This has some advantage with regards to people not knowing and not caring. In recent years, being transgender has become a very controversial discussed issue. While a broader discussion is, on one hand, helping to build more acceptance, it has also sparked a lot of controversies. The catalyst for this was the dreadful "bathroom" debate. There have been many who were just not even aware that transgender people have been using the bathroom of their choice, now they observe much closer, especially trans women entering the ladies room. This has lead to several bad incidents in the past few years since all the sudden people are more aware.

The same applies to legal protections. It is really unfortunate that we even have to ask for these. Many of us live in a grey area. I am still trying to figure out how much trouble I would be in when I would be caught using a women's restroom in Virginia. The catch is that each state does have different regulations. If I drive 16 miles, I can legally use the ladies room and anyone attempting to stop me would be charged with a hate crime. In my hometown, I would most likely get arrested myself. Legal protection for smaller classes is always an evolving thing. Again, it is sad that it is necessary and that society requires laws to actually do what should be right. I was really glad to see Massachusetts uphold the transgender protections. This is a great and strong signal. It will also help other states to muster the courage to pass similar laws (hopefully).


Now for my view on yesterdays results:
My biggest worry is the continued ability to place very conservative judges across the judiciary system on many levels. In the past few years, many anti-transgender laws and regulations have been upheld by courts. While there should not be any bias for judges, we all know that they have a lot of decision powers and spiking the courts with conservative anti-transgender judges could mean that unfavorable legislation could still be passed. Most of these appointments are life-long appointments which could impact the entire LGBT community (and many more) for generations to come.

Seeing the Vermont results is interesting: Even though she lost, I do believe Christine Hallquist has accomplished a tremendous win for our community. Of course, I would have loved to see her win, but sometimes it takes a bit longer to get to where we want.

I have to admit being a bit disappointed in general, I was hoping that the current division does not get any stronger and even harder to overcome. Unfortunately, I feel this is what has happened. The fights between the two sides will get a lot messier going forward. What this country would need is a strong effort to reunite and become or stay strong together. Unfortunately, the division has just been cemented much stronger and having House and Senate in two different hands is also two-fold: In an ideal world, it would spark common sense and a strong will for consensus. But I fear it will just end up being more fighting.

So, no, I am not happy about the resulsts.

Hugs,

Sarah

With all due respect, good for you.
I would NOT have transited without the light that was:
-Legal protection
-Public Insurance granting me access to meds, surgery, therapy, and support.
-an accepting community who I have nothing to fear from because of discrimination is against the law
-A network of support who share those same communities.
-and a lot more

I was on the road to self destruction. Because I had a place to go that PROTECTS and HELPS someone like me who isn't rich, well educated, or connected, I am now a better person. I am successful person.

I want others to have those same opportunities because I know what it is like, I know how hard it was. I gave up everything to be who I am today and it was only because of the legal process in place in my current state that it was made possible.

I REFUSE to ignore those who are less fortunate then me and I will FIGHT to make sure they have them.

I notice a lot Transgender people once they reach their "finish line" of transitioning, they tend to get disconnected from what we all should be fighting for. I refuse to go that route. I refuse to ignore it. I WILL FIGHT for those coming after me.

Who cares?

I Freaking care.

Quote from: Zumbagirl on November 07, 2018, 12:33:54 PM
Who cares, I mean seriously? I transitioned 20+ years ago when there was no protections, no nothing and despite that I managed to do alright for myself in the next few decades. I didn't need laws or anything else, just my own wits. No one is going to put a gun to your head and tell you can't take hormones or have SRS surgery, so who cares? Just live your life and be happy.

I'm going to say something that might be taken the wrong way, but I really want to get this off my chest. I actually voted against the transgender protections in Massachusetts. I did it because I don't want people to be compelled to like me at work or anywhere else. I want them to like me because I am a fun person to be around with a great sense of humor. I would much rather know that someone actively despises me or refuses to give me a job than to have them offer me the job at gunpoint and turn a work environment into a hostile one. I personally like knowing where I stand with people. Anti-discrimination laws turn life into darkened corridors whisper and conversations and I don't want to be part of that.

I would hope that disparate opinions are welcome because that's how people learn by perhaps questioning assumptions.

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Snipped: 

Quote from: PhoenixGurl2016 on November 07, 2018, 03:51:06 PM
With all due respect, good for you.
  - - - - - -
- - - - -
Who cares?

I Freaking care.

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@PhoenixGurl2016
Obviously you are very passionate about your feelings...
..... and regarding your reaction to the reply #12 by Zumbagirl....   

PLEASE read my reply #19 posting again about being cordial and respectful with posted remarks and "possibly perceived insults and any possibly perceived demeaning statements"

Let cooler heads and less heated words prevail here on the forums... PLEASE

Hugs and well wishes,
Danielle

Quote from: Alaskan Danielle on November 07, 2018, 04:00:58 PM
Snipped: 
@PhoenixGurl2016
Obviously you are very passionate about your feelings...
..... and regarding your reaction to the reply #12 by Zumbagirl....   

PLEASE read my reply #19 posting again about being cordial and respectful with posted remarks and "possibly perceived insults and any possibly perceived demeaning statements"

Let cooler heads and less heated words prevail here on the forums... PLEASE

Hugs and well wishes,
Danielle

But "Who Cares, I mean seriously?" Is ok? It doesn't seem respectful to me when to many of us, it's a real important issue to our well being and safety and to hear that attitude within our own community....that's disheartening, sad, and is going to cause a reaction.

Edit: I know that look argumentative, but it's not. I am just trying to see where the line is and why I got dinged and that other post did not.


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Sometimes I wish I was just gay. Being trans, I want to be a vocal advocate, a visual ambassador to the rest of the world. We could all go out and each influence 10 people who each influence ten more people and before you know it, the world is overwhelmingly accepting. We could do that without betraying our goals if we were gay, right? But we are trans. Most of us want to live our lives, not stand out, blend in, perhaps go stealth. It is way more complicated for us. I am thankful to anyone who advocates. It is perhaps at the cost of their personal goals. These people are really amazing. They put themselves out there in the spotlight, and I am thankful. We never know who knows we are trans. Many people never let us know that they know. I appreciate that. I think the major thing to keep in mind as we try to change the world in our own little ways is this. Act with class and act with dignity. It is really a way to protest the indignities thrown our way. MLK did a pretty darn good job of doing this. Be better than the bigoted a hole who hates us.
If that doesn't work kick them in the shins. (Sorry just kidding. Got to break the tension in this thread here kids!)

 :police:
Cool down everyone.

We have enough enemies in this world without picking fights with each other.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion as long as it remains in the boundaries of the TOS of this site.

I will act on any one picking fights

Cindy

I agree and I am am not one of those people, those people are amazing. I may not able to be an advocate but I can vote. I'll vote to improve our process as Transgender Americans forward. I wish that we didn't have to worry about these issues but as silly as they "may" be, we do have to worry. I will always vote to move forward and not back track our rights and safety into the shadows.

Quote from: HappyMoni on November 07, 2018, 04:26:26 PM
Sometimes I wish I was just gay. Being trans, I want to be a vocal advocate, a visual ambassador to the rest of the world. We could all go out and each influence 10 people who each influence ten more people and before you know it, the world is overwhelmingly accepting. We could do that without betraying our goals if we were gay, right? But we are trans. Most of us want to live our lives, not stand out, blend in, perhaps go stealth. It is way more complicated for us. I am thankful to anyone who advocates. It is perhaps at the cost of their personal goals. These people are really amazing. They put themselves out there in the spotlight, and I am thankful. We never know who knows we are trans. Many people never let us know that they know. I appreciate that. I think the major thing to keep in mind as we try to change the world in our own little ways is this. Act with class and act with dignity. It is really a way to protest the indignities thrown our way. MLK did a pretty darn good job of doing this. Be better than the bigoted a hole who hates us.
If that doesn't work kick them in the shins. (Sorry just kidding. Got to break the tension in this thread here kids!)

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I live in Colorado. The state senate used to have a one vote Republican majority.  That single vote was holding up passage of a bill that would allow a transgender person to change their gender on their birth certificate without a requirement for surgery.

Now Democrats control the Governor's office and both houses of the legislature.  The Governor is an openly gay man.  Transgender sterilization will no longer be required to change one's gender marker on one's birth certificate.

Please don't give me all that both sides nonsense.

Added bonus?  The baker now has a gay governor.

Quote from: Zumbagirl on November 07, 2018, 12:33:54 PM
Who cares, I mean seriously? I transitioned 20+ years ago when there was no protections, no nothing and despite that I managed to do alright for myself in the next few decades. I didn't need laws or anything else, just my own wits. No one is going to put a gun to your head and tell you can't take hormones or have SRS surgery, so who cares? Just live your life and be happy.

I'm going to say something that might be taken the wrong way, but I really want to get this off my chest. I actually voted against the transgender protections in Massachusetts. I did it because I don't want people to be compelled to like me at work or anywhere else. I want them to like me because I am a fun person to be around with a great sense of humor. I would much rather know that someone actively despises me or refuses to give me a job than to have them offer me the job at gunpoint and turn a work environment into a hostile one. I personally like knowing where I stand with people. Anti-discrimination laws turn life into darkened corridors whisper and conversations and I don't want to be part of that.

I would hope that disparate opinions are welcome because that's how people learn by perhaps questioning assumptions.

What do you do with someone who, by their own admission, just doesn't care? One of your own; a trans person. Voted no on a referendum to preserve rights for public accommodations for transgender people. The rights had already been in place for 2 years. Signed by our Republican governor and backed by law enforcement people and abuse counselors and now 67% of the voting public. These rights that non-trans people enjoy without thinking about it. But that without those rights, we can be asked to leave any restaurant or other public place. Summarily thrown out. How would you feel if that happened?

Help me understand the mentality. I was just at a support group meeting this evening. The facilitator got a small amount of funding to help 18-30 year olds come for group support to deal with being trans in this toxic environment. The grant money came from a family of a young trans person who committed suicide.

You're tough Zumba. I give you that. I'm not that strong and I'm thankful that the electorate of our state has our back. I'm not looking to be liked, just looking for equal protection under the law.   

:police:  I believe this topic has run it's course   :police:
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