Kathleen Charters, Sophia Forum Trustee blogs to mark Transgender Day of Remembrance, 20th November 2017
“Each and every one of us has the capacity to be an oppressor. I want to encourage each
and every one of us to interrogate how we might be an oppressor, and how we might be
able to become liberators for ourselves and each other.” Laverne Cox.
Given I am aware of the truly shocking amount of violence and discrimination trans people, people
who are looking to transition and people with a trans history experience how could I, as a socialist
and a feminist, not step up to the plate to challenge attitudes that are hateful (being based in fear
and ignorance) and be a vocal part of developing laws and regulations to address violence and
discrimination toward trans people?
At work, at home, in law, in our NHS and educational systems.
Given that I am aware of the truly hurtful and demonizing press coverage and ways of reporting on
trans issues and trans rights that appear in both gutter and mainstream press, how could I, as a
socialist and a feminist, not step up to the plate to challenge alongside and in collaboration with
trans organisations the Hate Crime such reporting is. Nothing more, nothing less.
On twitter, on Facebook, in my local press, BBC news.
Given that I am a spiritual woman, I know every child has the right to live their brightest and best
potential being true to themselves and should be unencumbered in achieving this. How could I, with
all I hold to be true, not want to support parents of trans children dealing with schoolground, family
and neighbourhood judgement and gossip? How could I not support any trans child experiencing
bullying and ridicule?
As a trans ally I learn to undo mine and others’ culturally constructed language and preconceived
ideas to be inclusive, welcoming and respectful. I won’t always get it right; as a trainer on trans and
non binary identity once said “be prepared to listen to those who you hurt, apologize with honesty
and integrity, work hard to be accountable to them, and make sure you act differently going
forward.”