The Transgender Day of Visibility - 3.31.20
Today is the Transgender Day of Visibility. Being out about being trans is more than just celebrating my pride or bringing awareness that someone has “met a trans person” and “it wasn’t that big of a deal”. You see, being visible helps to create change for so many trans individuals who may not have the ability to be out. One often overlooked reason for keeping transgender identities hidden has much to do with livelihood.
Did you know that we (trans individuals) are afraid to come out at work because often we don’t have fair protections in place? This means we could get fired when we come out, or not be allowed reasonable and safe accommodations while transitioning, forcing us to choose between our job or transitioning. HR practices are unclear and protection guidelines are nowhere to be found. Other times we stay in invisible in order to secure a job because our resume reflects our past lives and are too afraid to come out once working.
Furthermore, I have faced many problems in the workplace having nothing to do with “transitioning”. I have been told by employers they “weren’t sure I should continue to use the male restroom” after coming out years into a job. I have been asked by bosses if I have had “the surgery”. I have had coworkers out aspects of my story without my permission, jeopardizing my safety and privacy. However, it is my hope that by sharing my story I can work on creating change in the workplace. This way more trans individuals can be as visible as they choose without fear.
One of the ways I combat the before mentioned problems is by delivering training and development to employers and their businesses about creating a safe and inclusive environment to trans employees. By giving firsthand experience as a transgender employee it is my hope to help businesses recognize the gaps they have in providing an inclusive space. Together, let’s help others share their stories and live their lives as authentically as possible.
Did you know that we (trans individuals) are afraid to come out at work because often we don’t have fair protections in place? This means we could get fired when we come out, or not be allowed reasonable and safe accommodations while transitioning, forcing us to choose between our job or transitioning. HR practices are unclear and protection guidelines are nowhere to be found. Other times we stay in invisible in order to secure a job because our resume reflects our past lives and are too afraid to come out once working.
Furthermore, I have faced many problems in the workplace having nothing to do with “transitioning”. I have been told by employers they “weren’t sure I should continue to use the male restroom” after coming out years into a job. I have been asked by bosses if I have had “the surgery”. I have had coworkers out aspects of my story without my permission, jeopardizing my safety and privacy. However, it is my hope that by sharing my story I can work on creating change in the workplace. This way more trans individuals can be as visible as they choose without fear.
One of the ways I combat the before mentioned problems is by delivering training and development to employers and their businesses about creating a safe and inclusive environment to trans employees. By giving firsthand experience as a transgender employee it is my hope to help businesses recognize the gaps they have in providing an inclusive space. Together, let’s help others share their stories and live their lives as authentically as possible.