transphobia

Because of the global COVID-19 pandemic, in many households, the strains of closed schools, lost jobs, health issues, and close quarters mean that tensions are high, tempers are short, and privacy has become a luxury. If you’re a young queer person who is now isolated with trans- or homophobic family members, you probably know that better than anyone. Here are a few ideas to help you stay as physically and emotionally safe as possible during these difficult days.

Caster Semenya is a gold-medal-winning Olympic athlete from South Africa. She’s an incredibly talented runner who’s won dozens of gold medals at competitions worldwide. But instead of having her athletic performance attributed to natural talent and hard work, it has been scrutinized and coupled with assertions that she can’t possibly have accomplished what she has without cheating. Who is to blame for this, you might ask? Just the usual suspects: sexism, cissexism, and white supremacy.

I’m so sorry that N is constantly misgendering you; that sounds like a painful situation. I know from experience that it can be incredibly hurtful and demoralizing to have someone in your social circle do this even after being corrected multiple times. Even if he acts like this behavior isn’t a big…

Am I trans enough? It’s probably one of the most pervasive questions for trans and otherwise gender nonconforming people, and if you think you’re the first one to have had it cross your mind, I’m sorry to say that you’re not. Nearly every transgender person has experienced self-doubt, and for some, it is an ongoing struggle. The short answer to this question is: Yes. You are.

We’ve assembled a guide with some common issues that come up, and how to deal with them, in very broad terms. If you’re having difficulties, know that there are people out there who are ready and willing to help you, and often they’re a quick Google search away: if you’re struggling, you’re not alone, and you should reach out.