Human Rights Campaign estimates that there are two million transgender people in the U.S.
Transgender people are as diverse a group as the rest of the population, coming from all walks of life, spanning racial and ethnic groups, and ranging in age from small children to senior citizens. Here’s a very general overview of what it means to be trans.
What does transgender mean?
The word transgender is an overarching term for those whose gender identity is different from that which they were assigned at birth. Some trans people take hormones and/or have surgery to transition, but not everyone chooses the same path. It is important to know that being transgender does not always involve medical procedures. Some people choose to change their outward appearance and pronouns. It is of the utmost importance to always use the name and pronouns chosen by the person and never to use the term transgender as a noun – don’t say, “Kevin is a transgender.” Say, “Kevin is a transgender man.”
While some trans people identify within the gender binary of man or woman, people who feel their gender identity doesn’t reside neatly in that binary space may identify as non-binary, gender non-conforming, agender or other identities that best reflect their own personal experience. Trans people can be non-binary but not all non-binary people identify as transgender. The language may be ever evolving but the choice to respect someone’s wishes when it comes to how they identify will always be cool. Don’t know someone’s pronouns? Just ask! Offering yours is a great icebreaker.
Being transgender also does not imply a specific sexual orientation and transgender people may identify on any part of the sexual identity spectrum.
Why should you become a transgender ally?
The need for allyship within the LGBTQIA+ community is always there but is of particular importance for the transgender community. Transgender people, particularly transgender women of color, face shockingly high rates of murder, homelessness and incarceration, and most states and countries offer no legal protections in housing, employment, health care and other areas where individuals experience discrimination based on their gender identity or expression.
Even though the term transgender was only coined in the 20th century, trans people have always existed in every culture throughout history. An estimated 3 in 10 Americans personally know someone who is trans.
How can you become an ally to your transgender friends?
Increasing understanding and awareness is a way to remove the confusion and stigma that surrounds the subject of being transgender. And treating transgender people as you would any other person, including addressing them by their chosen name and pronouns is the best way to make trans people feel seen, heard, valued and respected.
About RevanRx
Everyone deserves to have their pharmaceutical needs met without fear or embarrassment. RevanRx is a full-service and compounding pharmacy, specializing in the unique needs of the LGBT+ community in Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kansas.
We hope to increase patient adherence and access to care for those who would otherwise not feel comfortable receiving medications or medication counseling in a public setting, avoiding embarrassing public conversations, misgendering, or refusal of service. Visit us at Revanrx.com and like us on Facebook.