On the Novelty of Treating People with Respect

Dear Rude People,

Just because you see someone who deviates from the norm, even the gender norm, doesn't mean you have the right to stare. Nor does it mean they have the duty to educate you. There are plenty of resources, if you are interested in gender issues, with which to do your own research. Please do not approach my friend while we are out minding our own business and ask her what gender she is. She has breasts and is wearing woman's clothing. It's not hard to guess, and it's rude to ask. We were not talking to you. We did not make eye contact with you. We do not want to answer your questions.

If someone is obviously trying to look like a woman, and don't quibble over what is obvious, please refer to her as a she. Even if you are sure she is a drag queen. This is only polite.

If you suspect someone is trans please don't ask invasive questions about their genitals. It's rude, and invasive.

Please don't tell me that you don't have a problem with trans people, you just wouldn't date them. I don't care, and I still think you're an ass.

Please remember, trans women are women and trans men are men. They are not shemales, or shehes, or someone pretending just to piss you off, and they are not sick in the head, and they were not necessarily abused as children.

And most importantly of all, trans people are people. People. Treat them as such.

I know gender issues can be strange and difficult to understand for the uninitiated. That doesn't change the fact that all people deserve respect, ok? Thank you.

Not Much Love,
Sarah