This week, out of the few readings that were assigned to us, “It’s Time To End the Long History of Feminism Failing Transgender Women”, written by Tina Vasquez, stood out to me the most. What I loved most about it is the writer taking responsibility, as a cisgender woman who means well, in failing to help protect our fellow transwomen. Although I also consider myself supportive of the community, I feel that I have failed in supporting in more active ways. It is incredibly unsettling and disturbing to read about the violence and dangers that trans women endure daily. What was even more disheartening to learn were the high percentages of suicide within the community and the even higher percentages of those who have experienced harassment at work.
When reading about sensitive topics like these, my heart automatically goes out to these women since I have seen how dangerous it can be for not only me but all of us out there. Other women, apparently disagree. In the article, Cathy Brennan, an attorney, radical feminist, and lesbian activist, believes that transgender women should be considered men. She even went as far as advocating against a policy introduced by the United Nations, that protects transgender people from discrimination. These “radical feminists” were then referred to as “trans-exclusionary radical feminists” or TERFs by trans women and trans activists. Shockingly, this small group of women has a huge influence on mainstream perceptions of innocent transwomen. If a small group of hateful women can make hateful statements and create a huge online presence promoting violence, then imagine what a bigger presence all of us, who support these women, can have!
Since reading this article, although I felt angry (as I tend to feel when reading about hate) at first, I decided to take the time and explore various organizations that support our fellow trans sisters that I thought I would share with you all as well!
- https://www.twocc.us/ → Trans Women of Color Collective
- https://transequality.org/ → National Center for Trans Equality
- https://srlp.org/ → Legal Services
- https://www.thetrevorproject.org/ → Support Line
- https://spartapride.org/ → Advocacy/Support Center for Trans Veterans
As Vasquez stated, “My love, solidarity, and real-deal support as cisgender feminists is long overdue.
