I got up at two am this morning because I thought the clock said four am. Yes, even I think that is odd logic but sleep has been sketchy recently. You’d think that would have given me more productive writing time but…at two am one isn’t necessarily focused.
I’ve spent the past few hours reading thoughtful and empathetic statements on Trans Day of Remembrance from local individuals, public servants, and institutions. There’s an indescribable horror in seeing those words interspersed with the hateful actions and speech of Nancy Mace and others of her ilk in Washington, DC.
We may have successfully pushed back on attitudes like that in the hcpss school board race but I don’t think there will be much time to rest and enjoy that success. The prejudice and persecution that our LGBTQIA family, friends, and neighbors experience occurs daily. Our support for them must also be daily.
Here’s a little something to think on today:
One of the country’s few gender-affirming thrift stores is in Baltimore, Julie Scharper, Baltimore Banner
Did you know:
While there are an increasing number of brands that sell clothing and gear designed for trans and gender-nonconforming people, their products are pricey. And the brands are almost entirely online, which means there is often no way for shoppers to try on items on before purchasing them.
Moreover, trans people often face financial hardships due to employment discrimination. More than one-third of trans people are living in poverty and nearly 1 in 5 are unemployed, according to a national survey.
There is nothing very complicated about wanting to buy affordable clothing that fits you right and to be able to use the bathroom in public settings. Turning these situations into topics of public humiliation and censure is cruel and dehumanizing.
We must not look the other way when this is happening and we can’t acquiesce, either.
Quote from The Rev’d Rachel Ward, UCC
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