I unfortunately work construction for the next while and today I was talking to a guy about where he lived and he said there are a lot of 'man-women' around that area. Now as I'm still closeted and have to be for a little while, I let it slide but it was interesting to note that while in the past I have heard people use varying terms and in the past have even participated in it to maintain the illusion. The shock came that after he said it I was, "oh yeah?" then I realized I AM one of those "man-women" he was referring to. I wasn't SUPER offended by it and I will have to have tough skin (but silky smooth, lol) to endure the next few years but to realize and accept I'm in that demographic now. Interested to note that I felt a kinship with those he was referring to. Another thing that got me thinking is the deliberate intonation to make that term derogatory.
Think positive thoughts, think positive thoughts! ugh
--Sasha
I find context is more important than words used. If it wasn't meant hurtfully, don't take it as such.
Quote from: Kylo on January 27, 2018, 12:55:39 AM
I find context is more important than words used. If it wasn't meant hurtfully, don't take it as such.
Really? In 2018, you think someone doesn't know the word transgender, but came up with "man-woman" innocently enough?
I think you'll find that in any malecentrc industry. It's part of posturing for male behaviour; anything soft or feminine is considered weak. And historically men needed to prove to others that they are tough. I don't know where you live but I think old tired norms still very much exist in your average male. Evolved men are special and uncommon. At least in my day to day experience. :(
--Sasha
I'm still not out at work and I heard the same phrase recently from someone there and I'm not sure what to make of it. I wouldn't think my colleague was trying to be offensive but hearing it did not feel good and made me feel even more scared of coming out.
Quote from: rmaddy on January 27, 2018, 01:55:28 AM
Really? In 2018, you think someone doesn't know the word transgender, but came up with "man-woman" innocently enough?
Until the late 70's transgender was not even a word and was not adopted by the mainstream until the 90's.
Quote from: DawnOday on January 28, 2018, 11:54:21 AM
Until the late 70's transgender was not even a word and was not adopted by the mainstream until the 90's.
It's been 40 years--two generations. I would be willing to bet that "man-woman", in this case was a slur. "He-she" and "it/that" are pretty common too.