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Celebrating Our Trans Communities
Monday, 16 December 2007.
Originally from express article 21 Nov 2007
By Di from Auckland Community Alcohol and Drug Services (CADS)
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| Di from CADS on 'Celebrating Our Trans Communities'. |
There are times when I am so proud to be a New Zealander! The fact that our Human Rights Commission has just completed an in-depth inquiry into the human rights of transgender people is definitely a reason to make me proud.
The full report is to be released shortly, or you can check out their website www.hrc.co.nz/transgenderinquiry.
The discrimination trans people face everyday is consistent, often insidious and in many cases invisible to others. Most trans people expect to be discriminated against. As a result, fear of discrimination has a huge impact on decisions trans people make, including whether they transition or share their past with others.
This inquiry aims at identifying the nature and extent of this discrimination and make recommendations to 'reduce the level of marginalisation experienced by transgender people.'* In the summary of submissions from the inquiry, the common areas of discrimination were – employment, government policies, access to goods and services, and education. The Inquiry also looks at trans people’s access to health services and ability to change sex details on birth certificates, passports and other documents.
This work is essential to us all in the LGBTTF (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, takataapui, fa’afafine) communities. While there are distinct issues for trans people, and gender identity is very different from sexual orientation, there are many overlaps. Trans people have always been present in our communities. Lesbian, gay and bisexual people frequently challenge gender boundaries in social (and sexual) behaviour, and are also victims of hate crimes because of their gender presentation. As a community, it is essential that we stand up for each other.
The measure of our strength is in our health and vitality – how we make an impact on the world. The problem is that so long as we believe that we are less worthy, or can’t imagine what it is like to be treated with dignity and respect– the more likely we are to engage in self destructive behaviours. The easiest of these is excess alcohol or other drugs.
Harmful alcohol or other drug use can be a slippery slope for us all, but being transgender increases the likelihood. Research has shown that transgender youth may use alcohol or drugs: as a distraction from having a body that does not fit their gender identity, to lower inhibitions against taking the risk of living and dressing how they want, to seek sex, and to ameliorate the impact of harassment and violence. This is particularly risky for Male to Female sex workers who find employment on the street.
The truth about our trans, fa’afafine and whakawāhine communities is that they are incredibly strong and resilient. The fact that they survive – and often thrive, despite adversity - shows an incredible strength of character. The life and vitality of an empowered trans person is awesome – our own wonderful Georgina Beyer epitomises this. We do not need to accept that harmful drug use is a way of life for members of our trans communities, they are way too valuable.
The message for us all – especially with the silly season upon us, is that we are all to some extent responsible for each other. Every time we turn a blind eye to our friend who is getting trolleyed again... we are not being a true friend. The trick is to be respectful – raise the issue without making our friend wrong or bad. The current ad about stopping a drunk driver is excellent. One way is to ask them (when they are sober) if they have concerns about their use. If you get stuck, give CADS a ring – we are really happy to talk through options.
If you have concerns about your own or someone else's alcohol or other drug use, or if you'd like more information, contact CADS on 845 1818 or www.cads.org.nz or if you live outside Auckland contact Alcohol and Drug Helpline 0800 787 797.
*from Transgender Inquiry Summary of Submissions Uiuinga Taitamatane, Taitamawhahine Hoki He Whakarapopotanga O Nga Tono Human Rights Commission 2007.
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& scene, GABA newsletter, and Personals.
For more information, visit their website:www.gayexpress.co.nz
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