Something about me and something about Enda

Hello everyone, my name is Gwen. I am transgressive, I am transgender, and I am new here. I am also excited to have this opportunity to share with everyone my opinions and experiences. I don't usually speak about myself but since this is my first post I will indulge in introductions. As I write this, I am still at the beginning of what will probably be a very long transition. One that is hopefully filled with rich and exciting discoveries as I define and redefine myself in search of personal candidness and honesty. Although I have not yet begun HRT and I do identify as female, I still occasionally operate under my male identity, especially at my job. I do this not out of an irrational fear of socially awkward situations, but the same rational fear of job security in the face of potential ignorance or bigotry. I understand getting a job here in the northwest is definitely not as hard as it is elsewhere for the trans community, but for anyone at the beginning of their transition this risk is relatively intimidating.

Currently the trans community still remains one of the most vulnerable and targeted communities. This seems most poignant to me when it comes to employment, when survival and financial security are at the whim of some executive's prejudicial insecurity. If the proposed Employment Non-Discrimination Act should pass it would certainly make it a lot easier to come out at work, protecting our jobs and our livelihoods. I know Congress has been voting on the thing since 1994 and that it's drawn a lot of ire from the usual suspects, but ever since ENDA became inclusive of gender identity it has become more hopeful and more important than ever.

Anyone who can conduct themselves reasonably professional in a work environment should not have to worry about being dismissed for any perceived gender expressions. Currently the opposition continues their effort to render the bill useless by expanding the generous exemption clause that already exclude religious organizations and fear of litigations against certain private sectors. Compromise has already been reached, further delay will only serve to undermine the purpose of the bill: protecting the freedom of gender identity (and sexual orientation) in work environments so that we no longer have to work in fear.