Transgender

transgenderThe transgender community is composed of individuals who have a gender identity or gender expression that is different from the sex they were assigned at birth. It also includes people who are not exclusively masculine or feminine, such as those are who genderqueer or nonbinary. As sexual orientation is independent from gender, transgender folks may identify as heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, asexual, and pansexual. Historically, the community has faced a great deal of discrimination and violence. According to the Human Rights Committee, 21 transgender people were killed in the U.S. in 2015, and in 2016 at least 25 were killed. Violence disproportionately affects transgender women of color. The community is often deprived of access to housing, employment, healthcare, and other vital services due to a combination of racism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia. Transgender issues have been in the spotlight lately thanks to famous transgender figures such as Chelsea Manning, Laverne Cox, Caitlyn Jenner, and Janet Mock, as well as several recent U.S. laws — laws that both take away and grant rights to transgender people. One of the most notable is North Carolina’s HB2, which forbids transgender individuals from using public restrooms that match their gender identity. Fortunately, there have been a number of laws passed recently which protect the community. As of July 2016, 21 states and the District of Columbia have legislation that prohibit discrimination based on gender identity. In May 2016, the U.S. Department of Education and Department of Justice directed public schools to allow transgender students to use the bathroom that aligns with their gender identity. President Obama also issued an executive order prohibiting discrimination against transgender individuals who work for the federal government or its contractors. In 2016, Oregon became the first state to legally recognize non-binary individuals. When it comes to knowledge and attitudes about the community and transgender rights, progress has been made, but there is still a great deal of work that needs to be done.
Culture
We Just Want to Pee: Navigating Trans Needs in Gay Spaces

As a gay man, moving to Palm Springs seemed like an easy choice. The vast array of businesses, bars and activities curated for my community attracted me to the area. But as a trans gay man (someone who was born female but identifies as male, and is sexually attracted to[…]

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Editors' Picks
10 Trans YouTubers You Should Be Watching

There are so many content creators on YouTube, creating videos based on any and every niche interest you could think of. You wanna watch a video essay explaining every season of Pretty Little Liars or a walkthrough on a boss fight in Elden Ring you just can’t beat? It’s all[…]

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Culture
The Muxes of Mexico Are a ‘Third Gender’ Who Straddle the Line Between Respected and Reviled

Muxes are a ‘third-gender’ largely recognized in the Juchitán region of Oaxaca, Mexico. But though they’re extraordinary, they don’t live charmed lives

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Celebrities
We Can’t Help But Swoon Over Indya Moore, Nonbinary Trans Activist & DC’s Newest Supervillain

Ever since they stepped onto our screens as the kind-hearted and ethereal Angel Evangelista on FX’s Pose, Indya Moore has completely captivated us with their presence, talent and activism. The nonbinary model and actress has been candid about their personal struggles, life before stardom, and commitment to authenticity, as well[…]

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