As a trans woman, I am all too aware of the many challenges we face as a community every day. From representation on social media platforms to access to healthcare and political battles, the news articles of late paint a picture of ongoing struggles and challenges. Let's take a look at some of the issues affecting Trans people, together.
(Please support the journalists of the articles cited by clicking the links and seeing the full articles, as this is essentially just a reference card)
Transgender individuals face numerous major challenges and obstacles in their daily lives, including discrimination in healthcare, employment, and housing, lack of legal recognition and protection, violence and murder, and exclusion from social and religious communities. The transgender community continues to fight for equal rights and visibility, as well as improved representation and understanding. However, please remember that efforts are being made by advocacy groups and allies to create a more inclusive and supportive society for all transgender individuals.
Instagram Content Guidelines Dispute
Recently, a transgender and nonbinary couple posted photos on Instagram with their nipples covered, but the photos were taken down by the platform. This has sparked a debate over Instagram's content guidelines and their enforcement, leading to calls for the platform to clarify their rules.
( https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/20/technology/meta-nudity-standards-overhaul.html )
Trump's Executive Orders to Combat Gender Insanity
The former president Trump has announced a series of executive orders to fight what he called "gender insanity." The proposals include bans on tax funds supporting gender-affirming care and have been criticized as an attack on the transgender community. The news highlights the ongoing political battles we face, especially when it comes to access to healthcare and support.
The Exclusion of LGBTQ People from Buddhist Teachings
Despite the progress being made, traditional Buddhist teachings still exclude LGBTQ people from monastic life. The Conversation article sheds light on the experiences of the transgender community within religious communities and how we're working towards increasing acceptance and understanding.
Challenges Faced by the Transgender Community in Accessing Healthcare Accessing quality healthcare is a major struggle for our community. The scarcity of skilled providers and widespread discrimination are the main reasons behind poor medical care for us. A 2015 survey showed that a third of all trans people reported facing discrimination when trying to access healthcare. A report from the Center for American Progress shows that 40% of transgender respondents and 56% of trans respondents of color said their health insurance companies refused to cover gender-affirming care. ( https://medicalxpress.com/news/2020-09-health-access-trans.html )
Understanding the Transgender Community It's crucial that we educate ourselves and work towards creating a society that is inclusive and supportive of the transgender community. NBC Out and the Human Rights Campaign emphasize the importance of understanding the transgender community. We come from all walks of life and are parents, siblings, coworkers, neighbors, friends, and children of all ages. ( https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-health-and-wellness/transgender-people-report-years-battles-health-insurance-coverage-rcna2145 & https://medium.com/laney-tower/on-journalism-covering-the-transgender-community-7a9429c85462 )
In conclusion, the articles cited in this reference card highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the transgender community, including discrimination in various aspects of life, lack of legal recognition, violence, and exclusion from religious communities. These articles, old and new, all shed light on the ongoing battles and obstacles faced by the trans community, as well as the efforts being made towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society.
It is crucial that we educate ourselves and work towards creating a society that is inclusive and supportive of the transgender community. Transgender individuals come from all walks of life and are valuable members of our society, and it is important that we work towards creating a world where we all can live freely, without fear or discrimination.