TRANSGENDERISM:

WHY DID I CHOSE THIS TOPIC?

• I knew very little about the transgender lifestyle
• Very prevalent in the media
• Provides an opportunity for more people to identify as transgender
• Important to be informed

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GENDER, SEXUALITY

• Gender, sexuality are distinct traits that shouldn't be combined
• Gender-refers to whom you identify as
• Sexuality-refers to whom you are physically attracted to

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE TRANSGENDER?

• With that being said, trans means that gender identity or gender expression does conform w/sex for which they were assigned at birth
• Sometimes both, sometimes only one

TYPES OF TRANSGENDER PEOPLE

• Transsexual- gender identity is different from assigned sex (some may choose gender or gender reassignment)
• Cross-dressing- wearing clothing stereotypically worn by another gender, still comfortable with assigned sex (gender expression)
• Genderqueer- those who don't identify as make or female

WHY ARE PEOPLE TRANSGENDER?

• No single explanation
• Genetic influences, prenatal hormone levels, early life experiences
• People often feel trapped in their gender cycle and can't fully express themselves for who they are without "removing the costume"

WHAT KINDS OF DISCRIMINATION?

• Most U.S cities and states do not protect transgender people from discrimination YET
• Experience high levels of discrimination in job employment, legal systems, education, etc.
• Often the target of hate crimes and daily subtle ignorance

HOW CAN I SUPPORT THEM?

• Understand that transgender people are members of various identity groups (businesses, churches, schools, etc.)
• Get support for your own reactions and questions, including expressing your feelings
• Reach out to those who are transgender or attend open question sessions at conferences
• Respect others decisions, advocate for their rights, and further educate yourself

PREVALENCE IN THE MEDIA

• Caitlyn Jenner-
• Top American Olympic athlete in the 1970's, TV personality
• Struggled with identity for decades, would sometimes wear panty hoes under her clothes to feel comfortable with herself
• Announced she is officially a woman at the age of 65

LAVERNE COX

• Earned an Emmy nomination for role in Orange is the New Black
• Born in Mobile, Alabama, a very conservative childood
• Was often bullied, acted like a girl, was told she needed therapy, tried to commit suicide
• Began dressing more like a woman, medical transition during college
• Important to recognize trans people who are less fortunate (don't have funds, not supported by family or community)

FINAL THOUGHTS

• "My beauty is not about how I look. My beauty is about my heart and soul"- Laverne Cox