'Non' is the 'Op'-erative Word

http://tranifesto.com/2011/04/28/non-is-the-op-erative-word/
4/28/11
by Matt Kailey

I was presenting on a trans panel recently, and the facilitator asked each of us to introduce ourselves and say a little about ourselves, including whether we were pre-op, post-op, or non-op. Although I was slightly taken aback, I simply waited my turn and explained that I don't identify myself by my operations.

I have covered this before (and I usually keep it covered), and I realize that this is a very common practice. When I first wrote about it, almost two years ago, I found it problematic, but I really didn't care if someone used the "op" word to refer to me. Times have changed, and so have I.

Natasha, considering you overtly label yourself by your "op" status (i.e., "Woman, Atheist, Post-op. That's me!"), I commend you for posting this article that seems to present a contrary point of view. Then again, I don't think there's any real contradiction: If you think your "op" status is both important to your identity and anyone else's business, then by all means feel free to share. But it's your business and yours alone whether to share, and it's really offensive for others to assume it's their business, especially to those who desire surgery but can't get it for any of a host of reasons. It's just plain manners.

Thanks for posting, in any case.

Woman, formally known as Transsexual.

Trans is just another sort of woman. Like short, tall, rich, poor etc.