I've been mulling this idea over in my mind for the past few years. It all started the day I was pulled over on my way to a transgender support meeting...
I could have dressed in my best, and put on my makeup/wig at the meeting place. I guess I was just very exited to finally meet others like me for the first time, I had gotten ready hours ahead of time. At the time, I used to drive a sporty looking car. A red Escort ZX2. I live in Shoshone country, the law enforcement here is pretty laid back. They don't profile. The next county over is totally different, even a little corrupt. Unfortunately, the meeting place was in the next county, Kootenai County. I didn't think much of it at the time, the city where the meeting place used to be has non discrimination laws in effect.
Awareness, and the law can leave grey areas I guess. I was pulled over just before the city limit. They profile vehicles to do drug raids on the interstate regularly. It started out with the usual. Can I see your license, registration, proof of insurance. When I spoke up, I was asked to step out of my car, and lean on the hood of the cop car. "Why are you dressed in women's clothing?" -asked the cop. I tried to mutter something because I was nervous, every passer by gawking at me. "It's a simple question!" Blurted the cop.
I told the officer I was going to a transgender support meeting. He said he never heard of such a thing. "I don't want to catch you like this again." Said the cop. After a quick search for drugs, or weapons, I was left off with a warning.
I know that was a bad scene, and I have come to terms with how it made me feel. Mostly afraid.
Since that incident, the county of which that officer belongs to has since undergone training for such situations. My own hometown county may have, but I doubt it.
The thing I have been thinking about is setting up a meeting with my local law enforcement to help educate them about transgender issues. At least to see if they have the basic awareness. I don't have community support locally for something like this, it just doesn't exist. There used to be, but those groups have disbanded. Since my local lgbt/transgender support groups have been fading away, I feel like awareness may be fading away where it is needed most.
I have been assaulted, and threatened many times since I was outed in my hometown six years ago. Things have calmed down since, and I have been dealing with those problems. Even so, one day I may need police help as I begin my transition. So far as I know, there are a handful of transgender people living in my county. I want to be sure local law enforcement is something I (we) can count on, and not have to fear.
I was wondering if anyone has experience with meeting law enforcement to educate, and inform them about transgender rights (of which Idaho has little to none). Any thoughts, or suggestions? Keeping in mind that I live in a backwoods/backwards place in the country.
I want to create a positive relationship with my local law enforcement. Open a dialogue with them that is informative, and constructive.