Opinion

A time of celebration for transgender people

Neil Allen
Charlestown
To the editor,

Sunday, March 31 was International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV). It is one day a year for celebrating who transgender people are and raising awareness about discrimination against those who identify as transgender.

I spent the last part of my dream cycle this morning thinking about what sort of editorial I wanted to write to address the discrimination against transgender people in general but more specifically those in the military and the school children who are, once again, open to discrimination thanks to members of the current administration in Washington, D.C. It is so difficult to see the country regressing in these ways and against what so many believe is the right path.

Here in New Hampshire, things aren’t as bad. Many schools now offer protections for transgender students and transgender and gender nonconforming rights against discrimination are being more strongly protected. The needs to be identified as we see ourselves are being supported with the birth record changes and gender option change on licenses that are being addressed in current legislation.

I have been blessed with loving family, friends and co-workers who have helped to make my transition easier and allowed me to live my life authentically. I wish this was the experience for that all who stray from traditional gender roles, but it is not.

Many lose the love and support of those around them — from family, friends, their significant other, their children, and co-workers or classmates. This can lead to being put out on the streets without the means to survive. For others it leads to hiding who they are, and they don’t transition, they hold on to the pain and every day can be a struggle.

Around 40 percent of people who are transgender have attempted suicide in their lifetime. That’s roughly one out of every two or three people. When I think about this, I think about all the people I know who are struggling with being transgender; and I can’t help but wonder who won’t be here next year. For young ones, especially teens, this can be even more difficult with all the struggles that come with being a teen.

I’ve spent most of my time identified as transgender person doing advocacy work and sharing my story of how and why I came out and my journey since coming out. In my work as a reporter in the area, I was able to provide many an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about what it can mean to be a transgender person. It has been my way of giving a voice to those who cannot share their story or be who they truly are.

While this is a time of celebration, it is also a time to think about those you know who are transgender or gender nonconforming and may be struggling. Show them your support and ask what you can do to make their life a little easier. Step up if you see them being bullied for their gender identity. Report discrimination against transgender people — at work, school or publicly.

And, for those who are struggling and need support, there are places for you to reach out on Facebook, in the community and at school through Gay Straight Transgender Alliance (GSTA) groups. You do not have to be alone on this journey. There are people out there, like me, who may not already know you but want to hear your story, answer your questions and help you to be able to live your life authentically.

 

Neil Allen

Charlestown

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