Transgender Resources

[NathanATX]

Hi folks,
I wanted to start this thread so we can all post the various resources we have about the trans community and the issues they might deal with. I think we often forget that these folks are our brothers & sisters.

Let's get educated! Let's get committed to our trans family!

peace,
Nate

[NathanATX]

http://www.groovefilm.net/transgender.html

[NathanATX]

http://www.danistroom.com/index.htm

Great resource!

[BenL]

This is the best Web page I have found for information about all sorts of things having to do with female-to-male transsexuals.
Hudson's FTM Resource Guide:
http://www.ftmguide.org/

This is the Google guide (multiple links) to FTM resources:
http://www.google.com/Top/Society/Transgendered/Female_to_Male/

There are many, many more, but these two will suffice for now.

BenL

[nmwolfboy]

The blogsite for the National Center for Transgender Equality (http://nctequality.blogspot.com/) is a good place for info & news.

Another great resource i found that relates directly to questions of faith and spirituality, mostly from a Christian perspective is the book Trans-Gendered: Theology, Ministry, and Communities of Faith by Justin Tanis. :reading: What i like best about the book was that it opened my eyes not only to the experiences of many transfolk of faith, but also to many new perspectives that have really helped my own spiritual journey. :flower:

-scott

[BenL]

The blogsite for the National Center for Transgender Equality (http://nctequality.blogspot.com/) is a good place for info & news.

Another great resource i found that relates directly to questions of faith and spirituality, mostly from a Christian perspective is the book Trans-Gendered: Theology, Ministry, and Communities of Faith by Justin Tanis. :reading: What i like best about the book was that it opened my eyes not only to the experiences of many transfolk of faith, but also to many new perspectives that have really helped my own spiritual journey. :flower:

-scott

I attended a retreat facilitated by Justin. He's terrific! BTW, he is on the NCTE staff. Here's their Web site: http://www.nctequality.org/default.asp.

BenL

[nmwolfboy]

i agree - Justin's a wonderful guy. He's here in New Mexico alot, though i'm not sure if he's living here fulltime now or not. i run into him all the time at local community meetings & events - maybe one of these days i'll steal him away for coffee & a theological chat!

[BenL]

i agree - Justin's a wonderful guy. He's here in New Mexico alot, though i'm not sure if he's living here fulltime now or not. i run into him all the time at local community meetings & events - maybe one of these days i'll steal him away for coffee & a theological chat!

You won't be disappointed, believe me. Ask about how every retreat has to have its arts and crafts component, and see if he does a double take!

BenL

[Sherrie Z]

Great info here ... thanks!

Here's some more info on transgender issues:


I've just recently read Gender Outlaw by Kate Bornstein ... and She's Not There by Jennifer Finney Boylan ... both interesting and informative personal accounts by M2F transpersons ... and both books make good use of humor ... : )

And here's a good general resource book: True Selves by Mildred L. Brown & Chloe Ann Rounsley -- subtitled: "Understanding Transsexualism For Families, Friends, Coworkers, and Helping Professionals"


This website has a very active message board ... and very diverse ... the website is run by married couple Helen and Betty.

Helen is the author of My Husband Betty and She's Not the Man I Married

http://www.myhusbandbetty.com/community/

[BruceChris]

And some of the members there have had trans children come out, usually very loudly, at very early ages. One of our members had her trans son come out as soon as "she" learned to talk! A LOT of talk with doctors, and school officials, puberty blocking hormones, and her son is now a college freshman. (We should ALL have mothers like that) :love: :love:

Minneapolis is not trans heaven, no place is, yet, but we've got a great trans community, and a generally accepting society. (And of course, they can ALL come to our church.) :pray: ;) :D

Peace and Love, Bruce Chris

[Britt.]

http://www.transgendercare.com/

http://www.transgenderlaw.org/

http://www.trueselves.com/ (I think you have to register to see anything, but I don't remember).

[NathanATX]

A great explanation of Bible texts relating to trans issues.

http://www.tsroadmap.com/mental/spirit.html

[Sherrie Z]

Here are a few more books ... : )


Omnigender: A Trans-Religious Approach by Virginia Mollenkott

Transgender Journeys by Virginia Mollenkott and Vanessa Sheridan

Crossing Over: Liberating The Transgendered Christian by Vanessa Sheridan

[Allyson]

Let's get educated! Let's get committed to our trans family!

Wow! :)

As a trans-woman who's new to the forums, can I just say a big thank you all for caring so much! This really touches my heart. :love:

(Yes, I know, I haven't introduced myself yet...I'll head straight there.)

[Sherrie Z]

Wow! :)

As a trans-woman who's new to the forums, can I just say a big thank you all for caring so much! This really touches my heart. :love:

(Yes, I know, I haven't introduced myself yet...I'll head straight there.)

I read your introduction ... you touch my heart ... and what a big beautiful heart you have! Thank you! : )

Love & Hugs,

Sherrie Z

[NathanATX]

Wow! :)

As a trans-woman who's new to the forums, can I just say a big thank you all for caring so much! This really touches my heart. :love:

(Yes, I know, I haven't introduced myself yet...I'll head straight there.)

Hi Allyson,
I'm glad you're here!
Nate

[BruceChris]

I would be honored to hold the door, or pull out a chair for you anytime, but I just don't get to Texas that often. Come back and post, whenever you can. We have at least one trans person of the cloth, here in the twin cities, so I know that that too is possible in this world.

Peace and Love, Bruce Chris

[dsdrane]

As requested, I'm copying a link I placed in its own thread here with this thread, too.

Cambridge, England, has a new mayor (and mayoress!):

Check out this link:

http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid45443.asp


-d.

[DanaH]

As a M2F TG woman, I would first like to say thank you for starting this thread.

You mentioned most of the resources I have.

Let me tell you that True Selves is my favorite book. It is well written, both analytical and compassionate. I've made notes on most of the pages.

Also that NCTE is a wonderful organization. 2 weeks ago I attended their Transgender Lobby day. They are a political organization, but they are doing good things for us.

Thanks again

PS - Although I have many Gay and Lesbian friends, this site helps me to better understand them as well. I know there is a mutual lack of understanding. So, if we're all scratching our heads about each other, just imagine what the straight crowd is doing. :lol:

[Zerbie]

Let me tell you that True Selves is my favorite book. It is well written, both analytical and compassionate. I've made notes on most of the pages.

Also that NCTE is a wonderful organization. 2 weeks ago I attended their Transgender Lobby day. They are a political organization, but they are doing good things for us.
PS - Although I have many Gay and Lesbian friends, this site helps me to better understand them as well. I know there is a mutual lack of understanding. So, if we're all scratching our heads about each other, just imagine what the straight crowd is doing. :lol:

Ay yi yi!! That puts it in perspective! :eek::eek:

We were at a conference yesterday, one which included a transgender workshop I now heartily regret I did not attend (I was at a different one the same hour). I'm hoping there will be another opportunity soon, because for all my activism, I tend to throw out the word "T" very perrfunctorily, without such a handle on the issues, necessarily. But seem to be getting there.

Thanks for the book rec. I've been thinking lately that I could do with a good study on trans issues.

:cool:

[Gennee]

Here are a few more books ... : )


Omnigender: A Trans-Religious Approach by Virginia Mollenkott

Transgender Journeys by Virginia Mollenkott and Vanessa Sheridan

Crossing Over: Liberating The Transgendered Christian by Vanessa Sheridan

I am currently reading Vanessa Sheridan's book 'Crossing Over'. It is an enlightening book and she has touched upon some things that are on my heart. I correspond with her, also. She is a great person.

Gennee

[Gennee]

Hi, Nathan. Thank you for this thread. I am a transgender male to female crossdresser who is active in the trans community. I discovered my trans status only two years ago. I'm learning all that I can and sharing it with as many as who will hear.

Gennee
:)

[Gennee]

Great info here ... thanks!

Here's some more info on transgender issues:


I've just recently read Gender Outlaw by Kate Bornstein ... and She's Not There by Jennifer Finney Boylan ... both interesting and informative personal accounts by M2F transpersons ... and both books make good use of humor ... : )

And here's a good general resource book: True Selves by Mildred L. Brown & Chloe Ann Rounsley -- subtitled: "Understanding Transsexualism For Families, Friends, Coworkers, and Helping Professionals"


This website has a very active message board ... and very diverse ... the website is run by married couple Helen and Betty.

Helen is the author of My Husband Betty and She's Not the Man I Married

http://www.myhusbandbetty.com/community/


I read 'My Husband Betty' and it is a fine book. It's easy to read and has a lot of good information.

Gennee

[Gennee]

Wow! :)

As a trans-woman who's new to the forums, can I just say a big thank you all for caring so much! This really touches my heart. :love:

(Yes, I know, I haven't introduced myself yet...I'll head straight there.)

Hi, Allyson. Welcome to Soulforce. I am a transgender and so happy that you have joined us.

Gennee
:)

[Sherrie Z]

I am currently reading Vanessa Sheridan's book 'Crossing Over'. It is an enlightening book and she has touched upon some things that are on my heart. I correspond with her, also. She is a great person.

Gennee


Hello, Gennee!

Finally catching up here with my belated response ... I met Vanessa's co-author Virginia Mollenkott many years ago, and she's great too ... how nice that you've connected with Vanessa ... I don't know her but I appreciate your comments here ... and also your comments about Helen Boyd's book too.

I have been encouraged by more and better information finally getting out to the world on trans issues ... the media in general is finally doing a better job. Hopefully the trend toward better communication and understanding among all members of the LGBT community, and allies, will continue too! : )

Hugs,

Sherrie Z

[Gennee]

Hello, Gennee!

Finally catching up here with my belated response ... I met Vanessa's co-author Virginia Mollenkott many years ago, and she's great too ... how nice that you've connected with Vanessa ... I don't know her but I appreciate your comments here ... and also your comments about Helen Boyd's book too.

I have been encouraged by more and better information finally getting out to the world on trans issues ... the media in general is finally doing a better job. Hopefully the trend toward better communication and understanding among all members of the LGBT community, and allies, will continue too! : )

Hugs,

Sherrie Z

That the media will improve their understading of LGBT issues, and trans issues in particular, is one goal I pray will be accomplished. I believe this year has been better for trans people. I have accomplished some of the goals that I set at the beginning of the year. I am setting some new goals now.

Gennee

[Sherrie Z]

That the media will improve their understading of LGBT issues, and trans issues in particular, is one goal I pray will be accomplished. I believe this year has been better for trans people. I have accomplished some of the goals that I set at the beginning of the year. I am setting some new goals now.

Gennee


Please keep us posted, thanks! : )

[BruceChris]

This person is the *out* transperson. A woman, who is not just a woman, but an out trans woman. or transman. They are serving much the same function in our society as the out gay or lesbian. They are variously ambassadors, role models, and educators. They are willing to show that they are real people, not ashamed of who or what they are, and that they are not crazy, perverted, or criminal. They are willing to face rejection, possible embarrassment, moral condemnation, and even possible violence to show the world that they, and people like them that they are real people, people just like everyone else, and proud of who they are. We have all seen them on Oprah or Sally, and now and then we will meet them in our day to day lives, too.

Namaste', Bruce Chris

[Gennee]

A great explanation of Bible texts relating to trans issues.

http://www.tsroadmap.com/mental/spirit.html

Great site, Nathan. I'm doing a perosnal in-depth study of transgender, crossdressing and the bible.

Gennee

[Emproph]

BOjeZnjKlp0

Bad question #1

I know this is on your list of Bad Questions, but I really want to know! That “don’t ask” stuff doesn’t apply to ME, does it?

Yes ignoramus, it does…
She's a hoot. If you ever want a crash course in transgender etiquette, this is it. And delivered with a graceful side of sly.

It's about 15 minutes, but it's fun.

[Emproph]

dJFkrG9YOE4

If you find it infectious, there's way better audio and remixes here:

http://www.myspace.com/calperniamusic

[Gennee]

Here are a few more books ... : )


Omnigender: A Trans-Religious Approach by Virginia Mollenkott

Transgender Journeys by Virginia Mollenkott and Vanessa Sheridan

Crossing Over: Liberating The Transgendered Christian by Vanessa Sheridan

I read 'Omnigender' and 'Crossing Over'. Excellent books.

Gennee

[Gennee]

Here are a few more books ... : )


Omnigender: A Trans-Religious Approach by Virginia Mollenkott

Transgender Journeys by Virginia Mollenkott and Vanessa Sheridan

Crossing Over: Liberating The Transgendered Christian by Vanessa Sheridan

I read 'Omnigender' and 'Crossing Over'. Excellent books.

Gennee

[Sere-Kun]

http://www.transgendercare.com/guidance/what_is_gender.htm

This webpage will give all you need to know about the science related to TS - what it is and is not, why it's there, etc.

Also

http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/humanbody/sex/add_user.shtml

That teaches about the differences about male/female brains. It might provide a little info about transsexuals having the brains of the opposite sex.

Also visit the APA website about sexuality. It talks a little about transgender and what the term means, talks about the different groups of TG, etc. I do not know the address... I used to have the address on another forum site, but for some reason it's gone. :(

I hope that helps.

[BruceChris]

But I can see here that you've already done a lot of homework. APA? American Psychological, or Psychiatric Association? I've bookmarked
http://www.apa.org/topics/orientation.html#choice, but there's a lot more out there. I just tried http://www.apa.org/topics/Gender3.pdf, but the link doesn't connect. You can probably Google as well as the rest of us

Namaste', Bruce Chris

[tymejumper]

Wow! :)

As a trans-woman who's new to the forums, can I just say a big thank you all for caring so much! This really touches my heart. :love:

(Yes, I know, I haven't introduced myself yet...I'll head straight there.)



Welcome Allyson. I think I posted first also before I introduced my self. :p

I am glad that there are many more TG people here on the forums. I have posted before that my ex-husband is TG, and that he never came out officially.(He did go by Micha for a while, but only to me and the TG group forum.) I was very saddened that I embraced my lesbian identity, but he still chose not to embrace his identity.

It's really hard to be gay anyhow, and if your BI or TG it gets multiplied 100 times over. This year I boycotted the Womyns festival here in Michigan, due to it's "women born women only" policy.(I just became aware of it this year!) It offended me that 'certain' gay people were not welcome there. There is NO reason to not be inclusive. We have been judged by the hetero community and we are no better than them, we judge also.

[WesQGA]

Hi folks,
I wanted to start this thread so we can all post the various resources we have about the trans community and the issues they might deal with. I think we often forget that these folks are our brothers & sisters.

Let's get educated! Let's get committed to our trans family!

peace,
Nate



http://www.sccatl.org - Southern Comfort Conference (Large TransGendered Conference here in Atlanta)

[Emproph]

Congressional Hearing on Discrimination Against Transgender Americans in the Workplace (http://nctequality.org/hearing.html)

Read the testimony submitted before the committee:

Shannon Price Minter (http://nctequality.org/Resources/TestimonyofShannonPriceMinterFINAL.pdf)
Diego Sanchez (http://nctequality.org/Resources/TestimonyofDiegoSanchezJune262008FINAL.pdf)
Sabrina Marcus Taraboletti (http://nctequality.org/Resources/TestimonyofSabrinaTarabolettiJune262008FINAL.pdf)
Videos of the hearing can be found here:

http://www.youtube.com/user/NCTEquality (http://www.youtube.com/user/NCTEquality)

http://i.ytimg.com/i/MI6evE570yBEdpv2DVXzBw/1.jpg
NCTEquality
Joined: June 27, 2008

Welcome to the National Center for Trangender Equality's official youtube channel.

This space is brand new, so stay tuned for new content not yet added!
The National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) is a 501(c)3 social justice organization dedicated to advancing the equality of transgender people through advocacy, collaboration and empowerment.

NCTE was founded in 2003 by transgender activists who saw the urgent need for a consistent voice in Washington DC for transgender people.

NCTE provides this presence by monitoring federal activity and communicating this activity to our members around the country, providing congressional education, and establishing a center of expertise on transgender issues.

City: Washington, DC
Country: United States http://www.youtube.com/img/flags/en_US-orig.gif

[Gennee]

Here are a couple of more sites that may be of interest.

www.christianlgbtrights.org
www.transfaithonline.org

Gennee

[Witch of Hope]

My favorite book is written by Leslie Feinberg:

TRANSGENDER WARRIOR".

It's a book about our history, our fights and our struggles with a staight community who hates us for what we are.
And I like movies like :

Transamerica

Looking for Normal

Boy's don't cry (not the rape and killing scenes)


But it makes me mad if I hear from another suicide, another killing of a transperson, or another rape! It makes me sick and angry.

[Gennee]

My favorite book is written by Leslie Feinberg:

TRANSGENDER WARRIOR".

It's a book about our history, our fights and our struggles with a staight community who hates us for what we are.
And I like movies like :

Transamerica

Looking for Normal

Boy's don't cry (not the rape and killing scenes)


But it makes me mad if I hear from another suicide, another killing of a transperson, or another rape! It makes me sick and angry.

Transgender Warrior was the first transgender book I read. A good read. Transamerica was the first trans movie I saw.

Gennee

[Emproph]

Trained in the Ways of Men (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZhBGYMHlUE).

The Gwen Araujo story. One of the most 'popular' transgender murder stories that is out there.

eZhBGYMHlUE

The trailer doesn’t do it justice in regard to the depth of the interviews.

They went far beyond the known story, in that the entire approach of the film was geared toward attempting to answer, and /or understand the meaning of “What is gender?” Not just socially, but also in a legal sense.

There was even a segment that asked people on the street how they *knew* what their gender was, and despite the heterosexuality of many of the participants, it was a hard question to answer.

Which was kind of illuminating for me. I used to think, hey, it’s hard to describe that you’re a heterosexual female with a male body, so it must be totally easy to describe that you’re just one with your body... According to that portion of the film, apparently not.

Anyway, I actually bought the dvd, hoping to do a more detailed write up, but since the other movies were mentioned (which I‘ve also seen, btw), I thought it was important to mention now. :)

[Emproph]

You make a great point, Keltic. I had to come out to my wife sooner than I wanted to (she found my stuff). It was a shock at first but now she has come to accept me being transgender. It was easier with my son. I haven't come out to everybody ut there may be a day that I may have to. I'm aware of the cost because I have decided to be visible and vocal.

Tomorrow, I'm attending the sevenstraightdays event. I will be dressed and a lot of people will be straight, I believe. It will be an opportunity to share what it is to be transgender. The way I see it, if one mind is changed, the cost will be worth it.

Gennee

From The Vigilance Blog (http://www.teachthefacts.org/vigilance.html)

Saturday, September 13, 2008
The Shower-Nuts Are Still At It (http://www.teachthefacts.org/2008/09/shower-nuts-are-still-at-it.html)

I only linked to that in case you wanted to respond to this specifically, or her personally. It can be rough territory, but this was one of the more inspiring things I've read in awhile.

Maryanne's transgender. She just started posting (and helping inform/educate) when the gender identity anti-discrimination law was passed, and then challenged by an extremist group (read lies and deceit).

It's usually a wolve's den over there, but that woman never has an unkind thing to say.
----

Maryanne A. Arnow said...

Here's an interesting thought.

I am going to live.

I am going to live and there is nothing that propagandistic fear-mongering can do about it.

I am going to live, and go to the grocery store when i need or want food and have the money to go there.

I am going to live, and i will go to the bank, and the post office, my gym and swimming pool, and to vote, and to pay my bills just like everyone else. (Provided people will give a job to someone based more on qualifications, than discriminations)..

I am going to live because i am a human being and you cannot take that from me no matter what you do or say. I am going to live and laugh and love, and hold my dearest best friend – my wife and soulmate.

I am going to live, and love my friends, and cry when i am sad, or when someone i love passes away, or becomes ill, or suffers some horrible misfortune.

I am going to cook the most incredible foods you could ever imagine and do it with love and passion and creativity. I am going to talk to people in public and make some friends in the process because i am a warm and outgoing person that likes to connect with other people.

I am going to live in the joy and wonder of a thunderstorm or, the wondrous beauty of a flower that I grew from a seed, and you cannot take this away from me.

I will help those in need even when i do not have enough to help my own self or my own household - and i have been this way for many years.

I am going to live and love and laugh and cry and experience the world, and my life as a woman in this world, and there is absolutely nothing that any of them can do to stop it - no matter what hatred they bring down, no matter how many minds they poison with lies and misperceptions and stereotypical cruelty and insensitivity.

I am going to live and be a part of public society, like it or not and there will be nothing any of you can do to stop it. No matter what you do. I am going to live forever because you cannot kill my spirit.

I am going to live, and even welcome those that do not welcome me.

I am going to live to the fullest extent of my ability as a free human being no matter what cage or construct or label you try to fence me in behind. I will break that fence, i will tear the labels, i will bend the bars of your cages and I.WILL.LIVE.

You cant even see the prison that you live in because it's all you have ever known.

I stand outside of your prisons of fear and hatred and lies, and look at you with sadness, and hope and pray that you will find a loving human heart that knows acceptance, instead of the fear that keeps you from seeing things as they really are or really could be.

I am going to live. Truly live with gusto and relish and boundless joy and unconditional love, with a clear conscience of being myself real and true, and with the God given freedom i was gifted with, from the moment i was born.

You cannot stop this. You will not stop it. You cannot claim the right of the only judge to do so, and that judge is not yourselves. Nor does your book give you the authority to claim such a right, and it never has.

I am going to live, and look the most heinous evils of lies and bigotry and hatred right dead in the eye, and i am not going to blink while you are exposed.

I an going to live despite what you think you represent, and have disgustingly scared or fooled others in to thinking is correct and true, when in fact it is lies and hatred disguised as love and truth.

I am going to live my life, and be the girl, and the good person, a good wife, and a good friend, and nothing you will do, can ever stop me from being the real human being that I am.

Many blessings always,

Most Sincerely,

I AM,


Maryanne

p.s. I hope some of you can join me sometime. Unconditional love and true joy sure outweighs hatred and falsehood and fear, by about 6 billion to the hundredth power.

September 16, 2008 11:59 PM

[Petrese]

Hi
I skimmed through all the posts and once again saw pretty Gwen and as always it tugged at my heart and a tear to my eye. Maybe her story has always affected me so because it occurred at the time I was beginning transition and really hit home, so sad, so senseless. As you all know the insanity continues. As some of you may not know once again this past July yet another young woman was murdered by a lover who found it too much to deal with his own hate when he found she was transsexual.

Allen Ray Andrade, 32, is currently charged with second-degree murder in the death of Angie Zapata. They had met and she invited him over. She did what a lot of us do and I don't want to hear any discussion of whether she should of told him first, I don't believe you should have to. She let him stay the night on the couch. The next day while she was out he started snooping around and saw some pics that made him wonder. When she got home he confronted her and grabbed her crotch. He then proceeded to beat her and grabbed a fire extinguisher to club her with. As she lay dying he left and stole her car to drive away. Her family found her dead. When apprehended Allen exclaimed: "I killed it".
See: http://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=5487781&page=1

As a kid I found something in a Playboy of all things LOL that let me know there were people like me, that were male but knew they were really female. Not crossdressers, not drag queens, but women. When I first started transition years ago there was still little in the way of resources. But I did find a book that I still will say today is bar none the best book for transsexuals. It is titled: In Search of Eve, by Anne Bolin. 1988. She is an Anthropologist who took an anthropologists approach to studying a group of transsexuals. The book goes into all aspects of transition including hormone regimes, surgeries, etc. It isn't watered down like so many of the books I have read seem to be for me. If you are a woman that is transsexual at any stage of transition I would highly recommend it.

I have been all over the country. I am not going to pull any punches here. I will be frank with you. When I transitioned I went from a highly respected engineer to sleeping on a friends floor in a crack infested neighborhood in downtown Minneapolis. If it wouldn't of been for people like Morgan O'sullivan and Jendeen Forberg and a couple lesbian friends I probably wouldn't be here right now. (I know that you know them Bruce :) ) My immediate family, God blesses them. My saving grace though came when I met my best friend, Danielle. Her and I have carried each other many a time over the years.

And do I still have my faith? Yes, most importantly I believe God has been there when I have really needed that intervention. I don't think God just manipulates each move but certainly has a plan for each person. God gives us free will and shit happens. But when things really get overwhelming, he may intervene. I believe he brought Danielle and I together, it is rare to have such a friend. Find yourselves a friend people, it's important!!

It takes a lot of hard work to succeed at this and a lot of us do things we have to to survive. Whether that is sex work, taking menial jobs or just relying on others to help us through it all is survival. I think the most important thing is to find a friend you can count on. And trannys are a shady bunch so good luck. So I don't judge anyone for what they have to do to survive and succeed, I have been there. And there is precious little good advice for transitioning. Allanah Starr said something once that has stuck with me throughout the years: "I didn't want to wind up busted lookin, livin under a bridge somewhere and workin at McDonalds the rest of my life." Well, neither did I, so I didn't.

I am now doing more, am more successful than I ever was before and have found out that all things are possible. Yet every day I face those same demons: did they clock me? am I going to be fired for being TS? can I ever really find love? And so with that I know that I must still push on as an activist, a voice and work with others to help overcome this huge thing out there called prejudice, homophobia, transphobia. Because even if it isn't currently affecting me as much as it once did it certainly is affecting a lot of other GLBT people. And it definitely has adversely affected the families of: Gwen, Angie, Tracy, Brenda, Brandon Teena and a lot of others.

Peace and Love
Petrese :)

[BruceChris]

I have lived in Minneapolis for most of my life. I wish that I had known you, when things were hitting bottom for you. I have been involved with GLBT, and trans people for most of my life. I am sure that I could have put you in touch with resources of some kind.

Minneapolis is now a relatively trans friendly place, much better than it was years ago. And of course, PHS has many resources, but they have always been such an up tight place. I've heard that Sharon was usually a good person, but she was operating under a lot of constraints, and other people's hang ups. I guess that now Bockting is the head guy, and he's a real pain in the butt.

They have an educator there who teaches all about identity, orientation, genetic and embryonic stuff, and many things about sexuality that I can't put a label on. His name is Simon something, (Rosseter?)and he is a really good person to talk to. He is a gay man in a relationship, and they are raising some kids.

I believe that I mentioned my church is such a wonderful place, Check it out:

http://www.soulforce.org/forums/showthread.php?t=1093

I've got a household mini-emergency here, Get back to you soon

P&L, BC

[BruceChris]

I will continue to write this, but I may be in and out, so I'll proably just post it some time, and then come back and edit onto it indefinitely.

I haven't seen Jendeen for a few years, the last time I saw her, she was playing with "All The Pretty Horses", a trans band that played in gay and straight clubs around the Cities. And, as I recall, she was just this side of gorgeous. I don't know Morgan.

The mini emergency had to do with my sister, who was having a gall bladder attack, but by the time I got involved, she was already on the way to the hospital, with a friend.

I remember reading "Second Serve", by Renee Richards, and a book or two by Leslie Feinberg, and a couple of other bio's, whose names I can't remember. I've read a lot of books by medical professionals, but the only one I remember is Harry Benjamin. (John Money is definitely OFF my list)

There is a book about being a transsexual Christian, called "Transgender Jouirneys", by Vanessa Sheridan and Virginia Ramey Mollenkott. There is also a book by Mollenkott called "Omnigender". Vanessa Sheridan lives right here in the Twin Cities.

I just ordered "In Search of Eve" from the library, it should be at my local branch in a few days.

I see your photo, as an avatar and on your public profile, but it is such a small picture. You look nice in the picture, but it sure would be nice to see a better picture of you. Thoughts?

Peace and Love, Bruce Chris

[Petrese]

Bruce, I don't have a problem with that, here are two pictures for you although I doubt you will recognize me:

http://prosourceaudio.homestead.com/meNYCneta.jpg

http://prosourceaudio.homestead.com/MeMNnet1.jpg
Bruce
I am sure you and I have a lot of similar aquaintences, but most of them I haven't seen in years. I spent a lot of time in Twin Cities almost 5 years but ran in more adult entertainer circles and rarely hung out with trannys, save the occational visit to the 90s or Vera's. I think, overall PHS is a good thing and ultimately does a lot of good. I always got along with Walter although he definately has his own style. I wish that more therapists would stick to the benjumin standards as they used to be with mosr stringent requirements for transition. I have seen a lot of people that move much to quickly and wind up tripping thewmselves up. So for that I agree with some of the PHS program.

But Minneapolis is a nice city to live in and who knows, someday I may wind up moving back. Still have a lot of friends there, although now most of them are married with a couple kids and not as wild LOL. I ultimately took a management position with the City of New York and it goes to show that hard work towards transition pays off. I am currently on the west coast in a more rural area and hold an engineering position here. I love working with small rural towns getting their infrastructure modernized and their towns re vitalized. I still have real estate in your part of the country and do visit from time to time. I actually did attend your church a couple times. Once for a day of rememberance ceremony.

Anyways,
chat lata

[Witch of Hope]

Did anyone read the book "TRANSGENDER WARROR", or had visited Leslie's webpage (transgenderwarrior.org) about trans-history?

[BruceChris]

You look very nice, and very feminine. I saw Jendeen playing at a local club, and she was playing with a small trans group, and they called themselves Mercy Kill.

Witch, I don't read much Leslie Feinberg, but I did see her some years ago when she gave a talk at Amazon bookstore. There were so many people there that she had to take it across the street, and give the talk in Loring Park. This was some time ago, as they have moved twice since then, and have now changed their name to True Colors Bookstore.

EDIT: Some years ago, the Minneapolis Amazon Bookstore Co-op was sued by Amazon.com, over the name.(Amazon was here first, but they didn't have the $$lawyers) Amazon Bookstore Co-op countersued. The outcome was that Amazon would go on as Amazon Bookstore Co-op, but that Amazon.com would ultimately own the name. Early last summer, Amazon ran out of money, and was up for sale. Amazon was bought by a wonderful lesbian woman, Ruta Skujins, and as a condition of settlement, Amazon is now True Colors Bookstore. But you can still find them by Googling Amazon Bookstore Co-op.

Namaste', Bruce Chris

[Petrese]

Bruce, thanks for the compliments, I need more surgeries! LOL Actually I am old, overweight and should probably have a better attitude LOL I just got some mail from Ms Jendeen, quite a lady. I miss Minnesota, I don't miss the snow, but I do wish I could spend more time with my friends there. On my way thru to NY last month I had a layover and got to see my friend Laura and her new baby, that was so fun. Time and distance always is an issue for me.

[Emproph]

In celebration of National Drag History Month (http://www.logoonline.com/video/franchise.jhtml?ctid=2182), via Good As You (http://www.goodasyou.org/good_as_you/2009/01/video-after-the-holidays-january-can-be-a-drag.html):


Varla Jean Merman - Stonewall (Revue Your History)

a3XuIgIIgDQ

[Emproph]

I know her from Teach The Facts, the Vigilance blog.

http://teachthefacts.org/vigilance.html

She has a sword-like wicked sense of humor, yet insightful, and always in a way that inspires compassion and self reflection.

Her's (videos (http://www.youtube.com/user/Cyntillation01)) are the first two at the top. Her name is Cynthia.

So I offer them for what it's worth.

I know what it means to be transgendered, but she's gone through the process.

And I love her to death, and she is simply hunky dory. :) :love:

Peace to you Cynthia,

-Patrick

[Petrese]

Varla Jean Merman - Stonewall (Revue Your History)
LOL That was really good

the other one, Cynthia, I don't know what 'process' she's gone through but it looks like shes got a ways to go on her transition.

[offog]

[QUOTE=Sherrie Z;23076]Great info here ... thanks!

Here's some more info on transgender issues:


I've just recently read Gender Outlaw by Kate Bornstein ... and She's Not There by Jennifer Finney Boylan ... both interesting and informative personal accounts by M2F transpersons ... and both books make good use of humor ... : )

Hey cool! Great to see Kate Bornstein mentioned here! She's coming to a Saskatoon conference this spring and I'm hoping to make it to that event. I'll have to see if I can find her book at the library.

[BruceChris]

and the new kid is gonna be a handful. From out of town, no money, no place to stay, didn't even know what PHS was. (The Univ. of Minnesota's Program on Human Sexuality. Tranny central, around here.) But she's got good fashion sense, and she looks nice.

I'll keep y'all posted.

Bruce Chris

[Epigirl2]

Here are a few resources I relied on when I found out my daughter was transsexual...

PFLAG - Parents, Friends/Family of Lesbian and Gay...they take the whole spectum into consideration...lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, questioning...

www.pflag.org

Another organization here in Massachusetts is: Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition...great activist site...

http://www.masstpc.org

Hope this helps some...
Beverly

[Adam42]

I just came across this primer on transgender issues, it seems to be a good starting place for people.
http://sagatucson.org/saga/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=42&Itemid=94

In my queer club we started to say our preferred pronoun when we said our name at the beginning of the meeting. We hope it makes a trans-friendly space. Also our drag ball is "Transformed" so as not to reinforce the gender binary. We've got nothing against drag, of course... but nobody needs to be bound by the binary.

Also, I've met Kate Bornstein and she is amaaaazing!

[Legashira]

Hello folks;
It's been a while since I've posted messages on SoulForce Forum.
I chair the Publications Committee on DignityUSA's Board of Directors and am preparing to publish a few stories of Catholic Trans people in the 2nd Quarter 2009 QV Quarterly Voice of DignityUSA. This 12-page publication is disseminated as hard-copy to 2000 DignityUSA members and is posted onto our website. See www.dignityusa.org and click on "Publications" ==> "QV" for samples.

Anyway, I would like to have a couple more stories, since the Trans experience seems to be so multi-faceted and so multi-layered. In particular, the FTM experience needs more voices, but any story that captures readers' interests and educates us will be welcomed.

I'm looking for first-person narratives ranging from 400 (one column) to 1300 (three columns) words. Any aspect of your experience is fine, whether (Catholic) faith-related or not. Deadline for submissions, which I hope will include a photo or two, is March 31, 2009.

Contact me directly at Legashira@yahoo.com. Thanks!

Leo N. Egashira
Publications Committee Chair
DignityUSA Board of Directors
(Dignity/Seattle)

[BenL]

TransEpiscopal (http://www.transepiscopal.blogspot.com/)is the name of an organization of Episcopalians and Anglicans who are trans or who are partners, family or allies of trans people. It is also the name of the blog written by various members of the group. The blog has an email address to get more info about the organization and its activities within the Episcopal Church. I know it's monitored regularly, so anyone with questions will receive a reply.

[BruceChris]

I do what I can to get her out of the house, and into the trans community. Yesterday, we went to P-FLAG Twin Cities, and the program was about a group called TYSON, Transsexual Youth Support Networks. They are local, I think.

This is a group that does outreach to trans persons in their teens. The leaders are all trans persons in their early 20's, and so who is going to become one of the leaders, well, Natasa, of course. She's starting to make connections.

She has some videos of herself on Youtube, and even a website. I'll try to get those posted soon.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPTeclNsmKg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ss96CiSN8Xs

She is an AWESOME child of God. And a real NEAT Babe! (And her favorite color is PINK)

This Thursday, we are going to Outfront Comes to the Capital. Outfront is the state's major gay rights group, and coordinates many other groups. Outfront is here:

http://www.outfront.org/

My weekend? I went to a 3 day Christian Feminist conference/reunion, full of women who share many of my beliefs. They call themselves Re-Imagining It's really nice to spend that much time among such wonderful people, my own kind.

Gender is what you make of it, Bruce Chris

[Yvo]

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The Family Part2 Brothers.
A Film by Zhanna Wilde.
Successful TransMen of Photo Gallery Lynn

For more transgender video's have a look at my YouTube website.

Trans and Faith on YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/TransandFaith

[Yvo]

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Transgender Rights? A Christian Speaks Out

Peterson Toscano raises some issues about transgender inclusion in non-discrimination laws

Links

Trans and Faith on YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/TransandFaith


You can follow Trans and Faith on Twitter
http://twitter.com/Trans_and_Faith

[Yvo]

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People of faith and transgender advocacy

Bishop John Selders of the UCC reflects on the progress in Connecticut and in the nation on gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender civil rights, and urges people of faith to be strong voices for inclusion and legal protections for transgender people.

Join us!

Transgender Friendly Religious Alliance
http://transgenderreligiousalliance.ning.com

[Yvo]

Call Me Malcolm (2004) - FtM transgender minister

A documentary feature about a [female-to-male] transgender seminary student, and his struggle with love, faith, and gender identity.

From the Synopsis:
Eventually, Malcolm, while still under the name Miriam, ended up at seminary. Initially he enrolled to see if he could reconcile the conflict between his heart and the things being taught in his home church.

Much to his surprise, Malcolm found his greatest support in his new Christian community at Iliff Theological Seminary and began the process of gender transition. The first—and in some ways biggest—of these steps was taking on his new name and repeatedly saying to people, "From now on, call me Malcolm."

As the film begins, so does Malcolm's final year of seminary. It is a time filled with great concern and apprehension. Before the school term begins, he steps away from his safe environment and sets out on a road trip. He travels across the country visiting with many people along the way, each of whom have a different perspective on the issues of identity, faith, and love.

To see free movie clips, purchase the film, or find out more information, visit:
www.callmemalcolm.com

Transgender and Religion Links

Trans and Faith
http://twitter.com/Trans_and_Faith

Transgender Religion Global Network
http://transgenderandreligion.ning.com

Trans and Faith on YouTube
http://ww.youtube.com/TransandFaith

Trans and Faith on My Space
http://www.myspace.com/transgenderenreligie

Transgender Friendly Religious Alliance
http://transgenderreligiousalliance.ning.com

Transgender and Buddhism
http://transgenderandbuddhism.ning.com

[Legashira]

View and download DignityUSA's 2nd Quarter 2009 QV in PDF:

http://www.dignityusa.org/sites/default/files/pdf/qv/DUSA%20QV%202nd%20Qtr%202009.pdf

Copies have been mailed to all DignityUSA members, and many copies have been distributed at the Third Annual Transgender Religious Summit in Washington, D.C. this week.

Yours,
Leo N. Egashira
Publications Committee Chair
DignityUSA Board of Directors

[NathanATX]

Thank you all for continuing to update this important thread!
Love,
Nathan

[Petrese]

A lot of trans people read, support and contribute to gay and lesbian causes, But I dont think anybody but trans people even read this thread. I have found time and again that gay and lesbian people often are the least interested in trans issues are the most mis informed and have the biggest issue with.

[BruceChris]

Are all members of what I will call Gender Variant. And yeah, not nearly enough people reach out to help each other. Or even admit that they exist, all too often.

Malcolm was the youth minister at a church in Minneapolis, the last time I looked.

Petrese, take care of yourself. And I'll try to keep an eye out for Natasa, now and then.

Peace and Love, Bruce Chris

[kara speltz]

A lot of trans people read, support and contribute to gay and lesbian causes, But I dont think anybody but trans people even read this thread. I have found time and again that gay and lesbian people often are the least interested in trans issues are the most mis informed and have the biggest issue with.

Petrese: I would agree with you for the most part. But I also think its not unlike the beginnings of the gay rights movement, when only gays were interested in anything to do with other gays. As people came out to their families and people began to know and love lesbians and gays, our allies began to join us.

I know that ten years ago, when I was in Lynchburg for our first Soulforce gathering, I was absolutely transphobic. As I read the stories of folks who were part of that initial gathering, seven of them, if I recall were trans, but I had clearly avoided them because I was uncomfortable. I described it to our local bishop as being similar to when the civil rights movement was beginning and we whites were only comfortable with blacks who had assimilated, but eventually, large numbers of us got it, that it was our work to get over that discomfort.

If it weren't for my mentor Judy, who was a member of our Board for many, many years, I might still be one of those folks who were both disinterested as well as uncomfortable.

I thank all of the transfolks who have been patient with me, as I blundered my way through understanding, first and supporting secondly.

Keep prodding, don't give up.

Kara

[Petrese]

Are all members of what I will call Gender Variant. And yeah, not nearly enough people reach out to help each other. Or even admit that they exist, all too often.

Malcolm was the youth minister at a church in Minneapolis, the last time I looked.

Petrese, take care of yourself. And I'll try to keep an eye out for Natasa, now and then.

Peace and Love, Bruce Chris

Natasha is on face book now and I have spoken to her by phone this summer. She is doing well and living in Wisconsin.

[Petrese]

Petrese: I would agree with you for the most part. But I also think its not unlike the beginnings of the gay rights movement, when only gays were interested in anything to do with other gays. As people came out to their families and people began to know and love lesbians and gays, our allies began to join us.

I know that ten years ago, when I was in Lynchburg for our first Soulforce gathering, I was absolutely transphobic. As I read the stories of folks who were part of that initial gathering, seven of them, if I recall were trans, but I had clearly avoided them because I was uncomfortable. I described it to our local bishop as being similar to when the civil rights movement was beginning and we whites were only comfortable with blacks who had assimilated, but eventually, large numbers of us got it, that it was our work to get over that discomfort.

If it weren't for my mentor Judy, who was a member of our Board for many, many years, I might still be one of those folks who were both disinterested as well as uncomfortable.

I thank all of the transfolks who have been patient with me, as I blundered my way through understanding, first and supporting secondly.

Keep prodding, don't give up.

Kara

Thanks hon, no never give up. As I become more familiar with New York and a lot of the early players it has interested me that Sylvia Rivera was such a large part and a driving force behind Stonewall.

[offog]

What a cool thread! I know a couple of transgendered people from the local gay club here. I'm going to tell them about this. Thanks to everyone here!

[Virginia Stephenson]

I haven't posted in a while but thanks to all who want to educate themselves about trans issues. Kara--you rock!!

I am doing a workshop at the conference in WPB on "Heterosexism and Transgender oppression". Even though my community is very oppressed by the rigid gender binary and sexism, I feel it is a transgender person's responsibility to overcome the oppression.....usually through a spiritual life. Forgiveness, loving our enemies, loving ourselves, and having compassion through non-judgment can go along way in helping us all to overcome the oppression.

I hope to see and meet many of you at the conference!!!

[tymejumper]

I am excited for this post and subsequent links. My daughters good friend in MTF and even though her parents are supportive(thank God!), she has a hard time with coming to terms with herself. It helps to have a few links I can send my daughter and her friend to help her come to terms with her body.

[Yvo]

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Malcolm talks with his pastor about God and being transgender.