Transgender Day of Remembrance

Everyone, at some point in their life has dealt with some type of bullying. From teasing, to name calling, to mental and physical abuse and worse. 

Now, imagine on your very worst day of being bullied, that it never gets better. The bully never gets tired, and gives up. The one bully turns into multiple bullies, leading you to feel that the only way out is suicide. Or, you aren't even given the choice of a way out, because your bully finally decides to kill you.

This is a reality for trans people every day. 

You may think that it's funny to call that trans woman a she - male or shim. But, it's not cute, it's not funny. It's hurtful. 

You may think that it's okay to whisper about how that trans man has a really big chest, or that that trans woman looks like a man. But, it's not. They hear these comments daily. 

All these things add stress to a life that is already difficult enough to live. Not everyone is a Carmen Carrera or Caitlyn Jenner. Not everyone who transitions is going to have an easy transition. And, these are the people who most need our support. These are the people who are more likely to attempt suicide, or be successful in their attempts. And, these are the people who are most likely to be murdered for being who they are. 

I will admit, I know very little about being trans, aside from what I've gathered from watching I Am Cait and I Am Jazz. I have been following a transition via blog on Google+. But, I have yet to have a trans friend allow me to ask questions to get answers that would help me educate myself.

And, in spite of knowing that today is Transgender Day of Remembrance, I have not done my research about any of those who have been lost over the last year. 

If things had worked out differently, a couple of months ago, I would have had today off, and been able to attend one of the many candlelight vigils going on around the state today. Unfortunately, it didn't work out that way, and the closest one to me, in Lewiston/Auburn, will be taking place just as I leave work tonight. While it means nothing to say that I will be there in spirit, my mind is there more than it is focused on my work today.

So until the numbers of trans losses start going down, all the way to zero, it is important to have a day of Remembrance.  Nobody should fear for their life, in order to live their true life.