Understanding "Transgender"
Complicated at first, yes, it can be; however, I hope to provide useful insight to unpack what it means when a person identifies as a transgender female. We have had a gender binary system embedded deep into our psychology since the rise of Christianity. So it is not our fault for initially going, "huh"? Let me ask you this? Do you identify as cis gender (click on "terminology" aforementioned for definition)? Do not know? That is ok, let's see. People who identify as cis gender feel that their gender assigned to them at birth, based on the anatomy between your legs, (take a peek if you need to) matches perfectly their gender state of mind. Do you? If yes, you are cis gender, and if no, then you possibly are transgender. It is worth noting that gender identity is not that cut and dry; however, this understanding the difference between cis gender and transgender is a perfect place to begin. Now that you have a basic understanding of transgender identity, I would like to introduce you to four amazing transgender women that have been extremely brave and inspiring for sharing their stories with the public. The women's journey span's a large period of time from 1952 up to 2016.
Before we do, I would like to share one of my favorite quotes with you by Margaret J. Wheatley. She said, "You can't hate someone whose story you know!" I truly believe this and the first woman I would like you to meet is Christine Jorgenson. Click below and enjoy your journey!