In Their Own Words: LGBT Advocates on the State of Transgender Issues
Eight leaders in LGBT advocacy give their thoughts on what 2013 meant for transgender rights, and what 2014 might bring.
BY Parker Marie Molloy
December 26 2013 5:00 AM ET
http://www.advocate.com/politics/transgender/2013/12/26/their-own-words-lgbt-advocates-state-transgender-issues (http://www.advocate.com/politics/transgender/2013/12/26/their-own-words-lgbt-advocates-state-transgender-issues)
For transgender individuals, 2013 was filled milestones. California's School Success and Opportunity Act was signed into law, Orange is the New Black became a binge-worthy powerhouse, the United States Senate passed the first trans-inclusive version of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, Chelsea Manning made us reach for the style guides, and the story of Coy Mathis took the world by storm.
But as we look to the new year, eight leaders from major LGBT organizations, shared their thoughts on 2013, and what they see for the future of trans rights, in 2014 and beyond.
I read through all of these. I was disappointed that no one commented on the paternalistic state of trans health and legal care. We need to get permission from our doctors do just about anything. I can't get my social security gender changed without a note from my doctor (which he's far too busy to write). My SRS surgeon demands two letters from therapists, one of which I paid $190 before he refused to write the letter.