DU has a transphobia problem

[cos dem]

45. Some of us really need voices like yours.

As a cisgendered male, I'll never be able to understand what it's like to be transgender. As a bisexual, I absolutely understand what it's like to be discriminated against based on identity. And, I know that it is especially painful when that discrimination comes from individuals you think would understand.

I think one of the definitions of a liberal is understanding that someone can feel differently than you, and, though you may not be able to comprehend it, you can appreciate them for who they are, and want them to feel comfortable. The best way for me to understand is visibility, which means interacting with individuals like yourself. I've worked alongside trans and non-binary individuals, and I like to think that the experience helped me expand my worldview. I'll admit to some discomfort, especially at the start, but this discomfort was all my fault, not theirs. Over time, it became no big deal. In the future, I'm sure I'll encounter other trans people, and I like to think it will be easier each time.

Not everything about being trans is readily apparent to me. But, with contributions like yours, I'm willing to listen and trust you when you say you've been hurt. I'd certainly rather hear from you over Dave Chappelle, Ricky Gervais, or JK Rowling. Sorry about the crap you've had to deal with. There are assholes everywhere, but hopefully there's enough of us out there who will stand with you and defend you from the assholes. All of us have a whole lot to lose if we don't.