The Legalize Trans* Campaign

The Legalize Trans* campaign is an effort to draw attention to the lack of inclusivity in the popular clothing manufacturer American Apparel's "Legalize Gay" campaign and to highlight transphobia in the broader gay, lesbian, and bisexual community. The campaign is set to create dialogue and educate about issues pertaining to transgender and gender non-conforming individuals.

Get involved in the Legalize Trans* campaign by buying a shirt, buttons, downloading graphics, and getting updated on critical "T" issues.

Transgender Day of Rememberance 11/20/09

Today, November 20th marks the eleventh Transgender Day of Remembrance, a solemn time to think back and honor our transgender brothers and sisters who were murdered for being who they are. Sadly 2009 witnessed an alarming increase in trans attacks and deaths and many of these were horrific acts of brutality simply because a person has a different gender identity or expression than society expects of them.



Suggested actions for the day:
-Candlelight vigils / marches
-Visual representation of the number of deaths with:
-Cardboard tomb stones of remembered people
-Paper cutouts of remembered people
-Body outline chalkings of remembered people
-Art / photography displays
-Conversation & awareness about trans issues

For a complete listing of memorial events please visit International Transgender Day of Remembrance.

Video Remembering Our Beloved Transgender Friends & Family

Transgender Day of Remembrance - 11/20/08

Today is the 10th annual Transgender Day of Remembrance commemorating all those in the transgender community who lost their lives due transphobia, misunderstanding, and pure hate.

Prayer for Transgender Day of Remembrance

"God full of mercy, bless the souls of all who are in our hearts on this Transgender Day of Remembrance. We call to mind today young and old, of every race, faith, and gender experience, who have died by violence. We remember those who have died because they would not hide, or did not pass, or did pass, or stood too proud, or looked like someone who did. Today we name them: the reluctant activist; the fiery hurler of heels; the warrior for quiet truth; the one whom no one really knew.

As many as we can name, there are thousands more whom we cannot, and for whom no prayer may have been said. We mourn their senseless deaths, and give thanks for their lives, for their teaching, and for the brief glow of each holy flame. We pray for the strength to carry on their legacy of vision, bravery, and love.

And as we remember them, we remember with them the thousands more who have taken their own lives. We pray for resolve to root out the injustice, ignorance, and cruelty that grow despair. And we pray, God, that all those who perpetrate hate and violence will speedily come to understand that Your creation has many faces, many genders, many holy expressions.

Blessed are they, who have allowed their divine image to shine in the world.

Blessed is God, in Whom no light is extinguished.(CBST)"

Suggested actions for the day:
-Candlelight vigils / marches
-Visual representation of the number of deaths with:
-Cardboard tomb stones of remembered people
-Paper cutouts of remembered people
-Body outline chalkings of remembered people
-Art / photography displays

Please use the opporunity to commemorate a friend or loved one who has suffered due to transphobia, regardless of whether one is theist, atheist, and regardless of your particular faith, please keep those names in your heart today and think about how we can all work to make this world a better and more just place regardless of ones gender identity/expression.

How to be a Trans Ally

Saw this article over at Lesbian Life on how to be a trans ally.

1. Don't Assume.

You might not know if a transgender person is in your presence. If speaking to a group, try to be inclusive.

2. Don't tolerate anti-trans remarks or jokes.

If someone makes a transphobic joke or remark, call them out on it. Challenge transphobic thinking.

3. Use the preferred pronoun.

If a person says she identifies as female, use "she" and "her" regardless of what that person's body or appearance is. If you are not sure which pronoun to use ask the person, "What pronoun would you like me to use?"

4. Respect Confidentiality.

If a person comes out to you as transgender, transsexual or questioning, ask that person who else knows and who you can talk to about it.

5. Listen.

Every trans person's experience is unique. If someone is having a hard time coming out or experiencing discrimination, you can help a lot by just listening.

6. Know your limits.

Admit when you've reached the limit of your knowledge. Ask for guidance or find an appropriate resource.

7. Don't try to Label someone.

If someone tells you they feel like they are "trapped in the wrong body" don't tell them they are necessarily a transsexual. People who are struggling with their gender identity often need the space to figure out for themselves how to identify.

8. Don't assume You Know What Their sexual Orientation is.

Sexual orientation and gender identity are not directly connected. Someone who is transitioning may also be questioning their sexual orientation or may choose to identify in a different way then they have previously.

9. Look at yourself.

Examine your own ideas of gender stereotypes and challenge those around you to do the same.

10. Stay Open

Remember transgender people are individuals who deserve respect and understanding.