Gender Identities..

    In Thursday's class we had a presentation on Gender Identities and conflict.  I thought Hilary and Toria did a good job of presenting the information, though I felt this was something that couldn't be covered in an hour and 20 minutes.. I think the amount of issues relating to this topic and the amount of experiences out there are vast and it is hard to encapsulate them all into a presentation.

      However, think it was a great opportunity to have Andie speak to our class and let us hear about her story.  I think it helps people to better understand individuals that are transgendered and to learn about someone with a unique life experience.  I also appreciate the fact that Andie and Toria are so open and committed in their relationship.  I admire those who don't care about being judged, and instead they just love.

     While I walked away from the class feeling like I knew more about Andie as a person there were thousands of other questions I felt that I could have asked.  The reason I chose to ask more about her personal story and about her family is because I don't feel that it is fair to ask most questions to one person of the transgendered community.  I struggle with the issue of having one person from a certain group be a "spokesperson" for that group.  Being in the majority I don't have to worry about someone asking me to speak for all heterosexual individuals nor do I feel Andie should have had to speak for transgendered individuals. While, I give her credit for doing it, I think all transgendered experiences are different just as everyone's experiences, and it's not fair to put someone up as a spokesperson for the group as the whole....Okay enough ranting about privilege...I realize people need to be educated somehow..

    I think there needs to be ways of spreading awareness and accommodating to the needs of those who are transgendered.  I don't understand why there isn't...I mean put yourself in that situation..if you'd want it changed for you, then help change it for them.  I especially feel that in a community like Juniata we should be able to deliver.

Until Next Time..