Gay Hate and Bigotry towards transgender people on"Queer Cincinnati"

"Queer Cincinnati" exposed it's bigotry in parroting a CNN article in which hyped and commercialized stereotypical gender diversity ignorance.

I will offer this CNN reporter one free pass. I will assume she was thrilled to have a news assignment as potentially controversial as this and that she is a straight woman, ignorant of gender diversity, became caught up in the moment and used whatever terminology was presented to her by the McDonald's Male employees and policeman. In her rush to become a journalist of note she disregarded human dignity and integrity in reporting to stereotype the un interviewed and silent other half of the conflict.

Not only did "Queer Cincinnati" mindlessly PARROT this violence enabling article it added it's own hate terminology GEEFULLY aware "Is it wrong for me to think, damn those girls are FIERCE?" that transgender woman die from this garbage.

To answer that question is a mighty test of my will power not to lower myself to your level. Your words "Queer Cincinnati" are all thats needed.....

>>Re Posted without permission in full from Queer Cincinnati.<<

"When Drag Queens Attack"

"On the back of the tranny controversy...When Trannies Attack"

>>>>CNN Clip auto starts when blog is opened.<<<<

"I thought this was appropriate. Is it wrong for me to think, damn those girls are FIERCE? Took off their hoop earrings and their stilettos and all."

"But seriously, don't piss off a drag queen. For your own safety. Bitches wanted their chicken nuggests and fries!"

"That seems to be the lesson here. Good for the White Castle employees in Northside to hear."

"Just kidding. I repeat: that was not a threat."

"Just saying. They're slow. And rude."

"...and I want my mozzerella cheese sticks.'

"I would have like to have seen the discussion in the news room. "So, what do we call them?" It's funny they settled on transvestite.'


"(Thanks to DumbWhore, my new friend on Twitter, but NSFW.)
3 comments Posted by QueerCincinnati.com at 1/28/2009 07:41:00 PM
Labels: drag queens, GAY STUFF, Tennessee "

>>>>END OF REPOST<<<<

PLANETRANSGENDER WAS ON QUEER CINCINATTIES BLOG LINK. I HAVE ASKE THE OWNERS OF THE BLOG TO REMOVE ME. It is always a huge disappointment when people who have used you to promote their own personal causes in reality hate you.

At least when I protest at a Church that is using improperly quoted Bible passages to promote hate the parishners and I are each aware it is a heart felt conviction that brings us together at that moment. You state that you "Love US", that is the exact same thing we hear from the misinformed well meaning Christians. I never have been laughed at and my pain has never been a matter of humor for straight Christians.

"Queer Cincinnati" you are below contempt.

Queer Cincinnati would you consider it "FIERCE" if the McDonald customers had been a homosexual? Or would you adhere closely to the GLAAD media guide the the near death beating of a gay man as the Dallas Voice did in reporting it?

Would it be "Fierce" then to laugh at "Trannies" and "Drag Queens" as they stood up for their rights to be respected?

"Queer Cincinnati" you are below contempt.



"I would have like to have seen the discussion in the news room. "So, what do we call them?" It's funny they settled on transvestite."

And you called them "DRAG QUEEN." You are s fine example the homosexual transphobic influence of movie's like "Ticked off trannys with knifes".

It is an OUTRAGE you call yourselves a glb(T) blog. You owe transgender and true Queer people an sincere apology.

By Kelli Busey
Feb. 01, 2009
planetransgender

Amnesty International : Gaza War Crimes and violations of international law

Amnesty International researchers’ found evidence of war crimes and serious violations of international law.

Hours before Israel announced a ceasefire, an Amnesty International fact finding mission gained access to Gaza. Their initial reports are disturbing: the team found first hand evidence of war crimes, serious violations of international law and possible crimes against humanity by all parties to the conflict.

AI researchers continue investigating attacks against southern Israel and are currently documenting the true scale of devastation wrought on civilians in Gaza. The stories they report are harrowing.

In the early afternoon of January 4th, three young paramedics walked through a field on a rescue mission to save a group of wounded men in a nearby orchard. A 12-year-old boy, standing by his house, assisted the operation by pointing to where the men could be found. An Israeli air strike on the area killed all four.

The bodies of the four victims could not be retrieved for two days. Ambulance crews who tried to approach the site came under fire from Israeli forces.

Our researchers later traveled to the scene of the strike with the two ambulance drivers who witnessed the attack. They met with the boy’s distraught mother and found the remains of the missile. The label of the missile read, “guided missile, surface attack” and cited the United States as the country of origin.

US Weapons Used in Attacks


Label on the remains of a US-made missile that killed three paramedics and a child. The U.S. has to support investigations about misuse of US weapons in attacks against civilians. Tell Secretary Clinton and Ambassador Susan Rice to support an independent investigation

This is just one of many similar stories.

Under the Geneva Conventions, medical personnel searching, collecting, transporting or treating the wounded must be protected and respected in all circumstances. Clearly, this was not the case on Jan. 4th.
Since we last emailed you, more than 87,000 of you have written Congress and former administration officials. These emails, along with the massive outpouring of letters from around the world from other Amnesty sections, are making an impact. Just this week:
the United Nations pledged $613 million in aid for Gaza
60 members of Congress signed a letter to Secretary of State Hillary of Clinton calling for humanitarian support for Gaza
And hours ago, the US pledged $20 million in aid1-2
We have a small window of opportunity to build on this momentum: urge Secretary Clinton and Ambassador Susan Rice to push for a full-fledged independent investigation



urge Secretary Clinton and Ambassador Susan Rice to push for a full-fledged independent investigation

Open Letter to Focus on the Family, AFA and Dallas Voice's Official Weblog "Instant Tea"

"Instant Tea" dallasvoice.com/instant-tea, the "Official blog of the Dallas Voice" a weekly paper which describes it's self correctly as the "Voice of the Dallas Gay and Lesbians" has with out remorse willfully and with malintent ignored the straight, gay, lesbian and Transgender people who have written "Instant Tea" and attemped to explain why the word "Tranny" is hurtful. To add injury to pain the blog "Instant Tea" like "Focus on the Family" both capitalize gleefully on this pain and suffering resulting in hate filled ephialtes being used to headline movie productions by segment producers for the DVTV (Dallas Voice TV).
Whether segment producer Israel Luna is producing a movie titled TICKED OFF TRANNIES WITH KNIFES for the Dallas Voice or not, is inconsequential. The damage by association is unavoidable and can not be reasoned or explained away.


I live my life as I must. I am a transgender woman. I do not meet all physical stereotypical expectations of our current society in presenting as a cisgender woman. I am a regional truck driver who lives in the deep south where 9 out of 10 radio stations are 24 hour religious broadcasts funded by the AFA, a mouthpiece for focus on the family. I spend many nights alone in a thin aluminum box, vulnerable, as I did last night, sleeping in my truck in a extremly filthy truck stop operated and patronized by people who for generations have been saturated daily by radio, print and hate inspired ministers.


When transgender and GLB people are beaten to an within an inch of their lives or murdered it is because the Dallas Voices Official Weblog "Instant Tea" and Donald E. Wildmon of the AFA have promoted Homophobia and Transphobia.

Justifying this behaviour, be it quoting hand picked misinterpreted bible quotes, monetary greed or simply a low self image momentarily sedated by INSTANT attention, are in reality just outlets for expressing hate.


Hate is like water. It flows easily to the lowest point.

Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation"s publication "Media Guide" is applicable to ST8 AND GLBT Media equally.

GLAAD Media Reference Guide, 7th Edition
Click link below for a free copy
GLAAD Media Reference Guide, 7th Edition



Defamatory Language
Click the link below for a free download in it's entirety
Defamatory Language

"fag," "faggot," "dyke," "homo," "sodomite," "queen," "she-male," "he-she," "it," "tranny" and similar epithets.
The criteria for using these derogatory terms should be the same as those applied to hate words for other groups: they should not be used except in a direct quote that reveals the bias of the person quoted. So that such words are not given credibility in the media, it is preferred that reporters say, "The person used a derogatory word for a lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender person."

I was blessed by a minister when I finally gave into a friend's insistence to come to a church one Sunday. I was curious, this Church with a very odd name seemed very important to my friends. The friend is ST8 and the minister is gay. My life was forever changed that day. The change does not happen over night but gradually day by day I am amazed by love. I now and forever will be a disciple of Christ. I do not allow hate to limit and set the parameters of my life.


I work for Love and and Love defines who I am.
Love and Hate are human emotions. It is a human ability to define each.
My place of worship "Agape MCC Ft Worth Texas" Agape is an ancient word, one of the first which was used to describe Christianity. It's translation is as it was and forever will be "No Greater Love".

Phone: (214) 754-8710
Fax: (214) 969-7271

Robert Moore, Publisher
robertmoore@dallasvoice.com
Tele. Ext.112

Tammye Nash, Senior Editor
nash@dallasvoice.com
Tele. Ext.128

John Wright, News Editor
wright@dallasvoice.com
Tele. Ext.113

Ben Briscoe, Staff Writer
briscoe@dallasvoice.com
Tele. Ext.117


Kelli Busey
Transgender Woman of Faith
Friday January 30, 2009
planetransgender

DVTV Movie Producer Promotes newest movie "TICKED-OFF TRANNIES WITH KNIVES"

Israel Luna who produces videos for the Dallas Voice on DVTV, is promoting his new movie "TICKED-OFF TRANNIES WITH KNIVES" on the same Dallas Voice Instant Teas article that reported on the Queer communities objection to the nondiscriminatory usage of "Tranny" by the Dallas Voice and the Dallas Voice's Blog "Instant Tea."

Luna in referencing the relatively low level response (we are but 1% of the general population) of the queer communities to this article as a justification for his stance that hateful and hurtful language is acceptable and permissible.

Totally inexplicable is Luna's failure to correlate the struggle of transgender "minority within a minority" as it is portrayed as "Tranny" knife wielding lunatic by the Gays with the reason why we both were participating in the Liberaction rally to generate support for Gay Marriage.

Pictured left from to right at the rally, Israel Luna, Blake Wilkinson and our megaphoned kissing both shouting "Come kiss Me"!


Blake Wilkinson the founder and organizer of Liberaction which was formed in response to the Prop.8 disaster in which a majority victimized a minority and who's rally we were both attending commented on the Instant Tea Web log article linked below;

Blake Wilkinson ,Liberactions reaction:

"I think that if Transgender people are expressing to the rest of the GLBT community that they feel the word “tranny” is offensive then fair-minded people should not use it and the city’s GLBT publication shouldn’t use it either. It seems pretty simple to me."

"The same is true when Gays and Lesbians speak with straight people that say things like “he’s a gay” or “she’s a homosexual” or talking about our “lifestyle”. Usually those that say these things know no better than those GLTB folk who use the word “tranny”. It seems to me that it’s a question of education. Gay, Lesbian and Bi-sexual people should be the first to take this lesson to heart because of our similar experiences."

The Dallas Voices Official blog "Instant Tea" is attempting to generate readership by exploiting our objection to hateful, transphobic and immoral exploitation of the most vulnerable component of the GLBT community, transgender people.

I object to the moneyifcation and profiteering of this practice and have in the past resisted participating in their transbaiting as not to be a pawn in the the hate machine, but now is the time to speak up.

Let them know how you feel and leave a comment on the Instant Tea blog article.

Please leave a comment on planetransgender article "Demand Dallas Voice Stops Using Tranny"


Thank you so much for caring,

kelli Busey
January 29, 2009
planetransgender

City shrouds anti-bias ordinance in secrecy

By John Wright, Dallas Voice
May 22, 2008

"6 years after LGBT activists succeeded in getting an ordinance passed, no one knows if it works or not."

"In the nearly six years since they were ultimately successful, the city hasn’t prosecuted a single case of job discrimination under what is known as HR Ordinance 46".
"As of April 7, 2008, there had been 22 job discrimination complaints filed under the ordinance, according to the city’s Fair Housing Office, which investigates the complaints. The ordinance took effect on Oct. 1, 2002."

"Of those 22 complaints, only one resulted in a “mediated resolution,” while one was withdrawn, 17 were found to have no cause, and three were deemed nonjurisdictional (because the accused party was a government entity or the complaint involved an employer with fewer than 15 employees.)"

Read Full Story at Dallas Voice

Homeless Transgender in New York Ciry

Source Topix Trans Formed: To Be Homeless & Transgender

Nowhere to go: To Be Homeless & Transgender in Dallas Texas

Press Release
For Immediate Release

Kelli Busey
214-226-7080
kellibusey@yahoo.com
Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies
http://dallastaa.ning.com/

Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies (DTAA) and the City of Dallas TX working together to make "The Bridge" homeless shelter transgender accepting.

Dallas Texas. Dallas TX enacted Ordinances in 2002 prohibiting discrimination in housing and the workplace based on gender identity and sexual orientation. It was not until the death of a mayoral candidate and homeless transgender woman Jennifer Gale after spending a night exposed to subfreezing temperatures did it become apparent the cities homeless shelter did not house transgender people according to the transgender person's self determined gender identity. Transgender people were judged by a shelter staffer as to whether the applicant was female or male regardless of information supplied on intake. The transgender homeless person was then required to sleep, shower and use bathrooms without protection in whatever accommodation chosen by the staffer.

This condition created a unsafe environment for transgender people. Many transgender people would then refuse to stay in the cities shelter and forgo the opportunity to learn how to move from the streets to become a vital contributing member of society.

Dallas transgender Advocates and Allies invited the City to a conference in which it would conduct a gender 101 and introduce the City of Dallas to who transgender, queer and the gender diverse people are. The next step was to use the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force study "Transitioning our shelters: A guide to making homeless shelters safe for transgender people" to suggest options to make the cities shelter safe and accepting for the gender diverse.

According to DTAA member Kelli Busey "My initial reaction to this effort was that the conference was a success. The city managers who were present although dismayed by the unaccountable absence of the invited Bridge personal at the meeting, became involved and enthusiastic about the prospect of caring for our GLBT homeless population. We will be monitoring the city to insure it implements policy that will make it compliant with it's gender and sexual protective ordinances. We will also offer our assistance to the City of Dallas to conduct ongoing Gender 101 classes for Bridge employess. The need for this was made apparent at the meeting by the observation of a Dallas City manager who noted that when the Bridge was initially opened there was a concern expressed for making it GLBT accepting but "It was never followed up on."

Press Release
For immediate Release
planetransgender
January 28, 2009

Chicago: ACLU sues on transgender birth certificate

Source Radical Queer News;

Chicago: ACLU sues on transgender birth certificate

CHICAGO, Jan. 27 (UPI) — The American Civil Liberties Union says it will sue Illinois for refusing to issue a new birth certificate to a citizen who underwent a sex-change operation.

Attorneys announced the lawsuit in Chicago Tuesday, saying the state Department of Vital Records had routinely changed birth certificates for transgender people for more than 40 years before recently pulling the plug on the practice.

The ACLU called birth certificates a fundamental document people need to legally and accurately establish their identity.

Full story at United Press International, Inc.

Supreme Court: law bars sex harassment retaliation

Supreme Court: law bars sex harassment retaliation (Reuters).

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – An employee is protected from being fired in retaliation for answering questions during an employer's investigation of suspected sexual harassment, the Supreme Court ruled on Monday.

The unanimous court ruled the federal civil rights law's anti-retaliation provision for employees who report workplace sex or race discrimination also extended to an internal investigation of a supervisor or another worker.

"Nothing in the statute requires a freakish rule protecting an employee who reports discrimination on her own initiative but not one who reports the same discrimination in the same words when her boss asks a question," Justice David Souter wrote in the
opinion.

Full Article at Democratic Underground

DEMAND the Dallas Voice stops using "TRANNY"

Thank you Nikki Dreams for this wonderfully sensitive and enlightening video. I hope everyone who watches this comes to appreciates how harmful it is to the self respect of transgender people when you call us "Trannie" and unless we are a entertainer with published articles which we identify ourselves individually as a "Drag Queen or Tranny" please do not call us by these names.

The Dallas Voice and it's Web Log which bill themselves as a "LGB Paper" have been a constant recipient of my emails and phone calls to both the Editor, Tammye Nash and News Editor, John Write, both of whom I consider an allies, protesting their use of these derogatory names. I have explained that we suffer from the use of TRANNY as Black people do being called "Nigger" by non Afro Americans or Hispanics hate "Wetback" or Jewish people rail against 'Kike".....this list of bigotry inspired names is used by haters........and how others will capitalize on their insensitivity resulting in the marginalization, Victimization and violent murders of Transgender people.

I have resisted the Dallas Voices invitation to post letters to the editor protesting this because I feel it would exploitative on the Dallas Voices part. My indignation would be used as a promotional commercialization aid for the sales of this very hateful language.

!Please save lives and Take Action! Copy the message below and Send the Dallas voice a email!

Phone: (214) 754-8710
Fax: (214) 969-7271

Robert Moore, Publisher
robertmoore@dallasvoice.com
Tele. Ext.112

Tammye Nash, Senior Editor
nash@dallasvoice.com
Tele. Ext.128

John Wright, News Editor
wright@dallasvoice.com
Tele. Ext.113

Ben Briscoe, Staff Writer
briscoe@dallasvoice.com
Tele. Ext.117
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Dallas Voice,
Our community is comprised of Queer, Transgender, Lesbians, Gay, Bisexual, Intersexed and Questioning people who deserve the same respect as your staff expects to be shown in there personal daily lives. You would scream bloody murder if I called you "Faggot" do not call our people "Tranny". We demand our own community stops leading the way for hate and violence targeting transgender people.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Related Posts on planetransgender

"Angie Zapata's Life and Death : changed how we are treated"

"Boston Herald "TRANNIE" is what a 16 year old calls a gear shift. Not a HUMAN."

DEMAND the Dallas Voice stops using "TRANNY" also published at,

Pams House Blend
Queer Toda.com
Dallas Transgender Activists and Allies(DTAA)

DEMAND the Dallas Voice stops using "TRANNY", auto linked at

QueerCincinnati.com
Queers United

Dallas Voice and it's Weblog and outside publications referencing articles by the Dallas Voice containing the word "Tranny"

Dallas Voice's official Blog Instant Tea responds with post"Planetransgender takes action against the word ‘Tranny’" Visit Instant Tea and leave a comment!

Hot tranny Hawaii | Aloha art


2009’s first hot tranny: Katelyn Cusanelli
January 8th, 2009

Hand Puppet Land blog postings

Oregon Live "Dallas bar owner bans drag queens and trannies"

Weblog headlines Local Gay Hate Crime and uses Tranny in later article

SHE-DICK sings 'Galactic Tranny' ... Dallas Voice DVTV News. Candi Shell

2006-2009 outside.in stories about 'lgbt' in Cityplace

Pegasus News Dallas gay bar to ban drag queens on “Trashy Tuesday”

(Dallas Myspace)theres a pic of me in the dallas voice and ive got this stupid look on my ... OMG you tranny whore shouldnt you be kissing some red necks ass right now

Crews Inn rep says drag queens allowed in on certain conditions; performers vow to continue fight

Dallas Voice Joan Rivers shares the stage with the Turtle Creek Chorale, ... recently as “halfway through becoming a trannie,

The list goes on forever and I have to go to church now.

By Kelli Busey,
Transgender Woman
January 25, 2009
planetransgender

Human Rights First Thanks President Obama

From
Human Rights First

"If there was any doubt that a new day is dawning in America, it has been washed away by the events of [last week]."

"I am speaking about the three executive orders that President Obama signed yesterday. They represent a significant victory—a victory for which Human Rights First has fought relentlessly over the past seven years. And you have been there right alongside us the entire way."

"Standing next to the president as he signed these orders were 16 members of Human Rights First's coalition of retired military leaders. Over the past several years, Human Rights First has brought together more than 50 generals and admirals to speak out against disastrous policies of torture, ill treatment, and indefinite detention."

"Taken together, these executive orders end coercive interrogation practices by the CIA and other U.S. agencies, shut down secret detention facilities, and order the closure of Guantánamo within one year."

Please take moment now and send a thank you to President Obama for his action. Let him know that you will support him in making sure that America's leadership is fully restored.

Posted by Kelli Busey
January 25, 2009
planetransgender

Belovedness and The United Methodist Constitution: Does All Mean All?

Sometimes in my wandering I happen to come back to the United Methodist and am instantly thrust into the very passion of Christianity.

A blog post found on "Religion is a Queer Thing" by Rev. Tiffiany Steinwert, pictured right,

"Belovedness and The United Methodist Constitution: Does All Mean All?"

"There is a story that another UM pastor, Janet Wolf, tells about one of her parishioners. This story about Fayette has become gospel for me in understanding the fullness of the meaning of baptism in our Christian tradition. You see Fayette, although new to the Church understood the power of baptism deep her in soul."

"She came to Janet’s church one summer, pacing back and forth outside the open doors, listening intently to the music, the laughter, the words. Occasionally she would crouch down on the front steps engrossed, amazed and astounded at what she heard. Little by little that summer Fayette moved from the sidewalk to the steps, from the steps to the door and finally one day from the door to the pew."

Please read and share Religion is a Queer Thing.

TWO Calls On Officials To Investigate Ted Haggard's Former Church

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, Jan 24, 2009

Contact: Wayne Besen
Phone: 917-691-5118
E-Mail: wbesen@truthwinsout.org

Truth Wins Out Calls On Authorities To Investigate Ted Haggard's Former Church.

Hush Money Scandal Emerges From New Life's Closet, Says TWO

NEW YORK - Truth Wins Out (TWO) today called on Colorado officials to investigate New Life Church, after the Associated Press revealed that New Life paid money to keep a male volunteer from publicly disclosing a romantic affair with the church's former minister Ted Haggard.

According to the AP, New Life's current Senior Pastor, Brady Boyd, said that the church reached a legal settlement to pay the man for counseling and college tuition, with one condition being that none of the parties involved discuss the relationship publicly.

"Until conservative churches stop shaming gay people and learn to accept them, we will see more tawdry scandals," said Truth Wins Out's Executive Director Wayne Besen. "These calamities are a direct result of the closet."

Rev. Boyd denied that New Life paid hush money and said, "Our desire was to help him. Here was a young man who wanted to get on with his life. We considered it more compassionate assistance - certainly not hush money."

TWO called on Colorado officials to look into the matter.

"Authorities should investigate to ensure that this volunteer was not manipulated or coerced into silence," said Besen. "The leadership of New Life has little credibility and should not simply be taken at their word. At a minimum, Boyd should resign for using his position of power to pressure a vulnerable member of his congregation into silence."

In 2006, Denver escort Mike Jones disclosed that he and Haggard had a three-year relationship where money was exchanged for sex. Shortly after, Haggard stepped down from New Life. Next week, HBO will air a documentary on the rise and fall of Haggard. The disgraced minister will be promoting the show in media appearances throughout the week.

There is speculation that the HBO special spurred the volunteer to contact a Colorado Springs television station to discuss the situation.

Truth Wins Out is a non-profit organization that defends the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community against anti-gay lies. TWO also counters the so-called "ex-gay" industry and educates America about the lives of GLBT people.


HBO Showtimes "THE TRIALS OF TED HAGGARD"

Queer Liberaction kicks off "Milk Box" Dallas January 24

What is Queer Liberaction's "Milk box" you might be asking yourself. It is a way to celebrate our freedom of speech, but instead of getting up on a soapbox we will be getting up on a Milk box in honor of Harvey Milk. Our rights might be able to be taken from us, but they will never be able to steal our voice.

Help Queer Liberaction kick the Milk box off right this Sunday at 4:00 PM. We will meet at the corner of Throckmorton and Cedar Springs in front of the old Crossroads Bookstore to publicly speak our mind and educate Dallas's Queer Community as to exactly how we are being oppressed. Angry over the current state of things, or tickled pink? Come tell Dallas Gays and Lesbians about it or just come and listen and help hand out flyers. Anyone and everyone is welcome!

If you haven't already done so, be sure to put our upcoming events on your calendar. QL will stage a Queer kiss-in on Saturday, February 7 at noon. This will take place by the Dallas Museum of Art at Ross and Harwood in Downtown Dallas. Also, be sure to attend our big Freedom to Marry Day demonstration at 11:30 am on Thursday, February 12. The festivities will begin in Founder's Plaza outside the Records Building at 509 Main St.

Queer Liberaction is also in need of a few things to help make the Freedom to Marry Day demonstration a success. Please contact us if you're able to help us with any of the following.
* Limousine rental for a couple hours* Flowers, bouquets of flowers* Rice, flower petals to throw, bubbles* Poster board* Professionally printed banners * Donations

Queer Liberaction
lgbtliberaction@gmail.com
214-679-6321
www.myspace.com/queerliberaction

Texas Independence Lobby Day March 2nd

Equality for all Texans! Support House Bill 538

Make your voice heard on Texas Independence Day.

Date: 3/2/2009 from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (Central Time)

Hosted By: Equality Texas
Lindsay Marsh, Field Organizer
Lindsay@EqualityTexas.org
512-474-5475

RSVP by: February 27, 2009 at 5:00 pm (Central Time)

Don't miss this opportunity to share your concerns and your lives face-to-face with the Texas lawmakers elected to represent you.

Opening Welcome Reception on Sunday, March 1st from 5:30pm to 7:30pm

Doubletree Hotel Austin - University Area, located at 1617 North IH-35
Cash bar and free hors d'oeuvres

Lobby Day Schedule on Monday, March 2nd

8am – 9am Breakfast & Registration (TBA)
9am - 10am Group photo & Press conference (Capitol South Steps)
10am – 11am Lobby Training (Capitol Extension Auditorium E1.004)
11am – 12pm Team Lobby Visits (Assigned Capitol offices)
12pm – 1pm Lunch (provided); Capitol City Men's Chorus Performance (Capitol Rotunda)
1pm – 2pm Team Lobby Visits/Lobby Your Legislator (Assigned Capitol offices)
2pm – 3pm Thank you letters/debrief (Capitol Extension Auditorium E1.004)
Host Hotel

Doubletree Hotel Austin - University Area, located at 1617 North IH-35
Special room rate of $109, plus local taxes
Queen/Queen, or King. Free Wi-Fi
For reservations, call 512-479-4000; Specify "Equality Texas Discount Rate"

Make your voice heard on Texas Independence Day.

Equality Texas · PO Box 2340 Austin, TX 78768 · 512.474.5475 · 512.474.6297 fax

Related Posts

TEXAS to decide fate of Gender inclusive "ENDA" HB508

"Equality For All Texans Support HB 538"


kelli Busey
January 22, 2009
planetransgender

Dallas County Free's the Condom(Condoms for Everyone)

Much to the dismay of the religious right wing and "political conservatives" the failed abstinence only policy has been trashed and condoms are once again being distributed by city health.

Unable to ignore the increasing human suffrage the Dallas City council voted to change its policies to one that protects the most vulnerable.

Pegasus News reports
"The condom ban was enacted prior to the introduction of life-extending antiretroviral medications for people with HIV/AIDS, and one LGBT health advocate compared the policy at the time to “ethnic cleansing.”

"But the Republican commissioners who enacted the ban said the health department’s practice of distributing condoms and needle sterilization kits, which began in the mid-1980s, encouraged illegal and immoral behavior. It would be eight years after the condom ban before the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Texas anti-sodomy law."

Also Found on

RH Reality Check
Reproductive Health Reality Check

Dallas Voice
Dallas AIDS data may end condom distribution ban

failed abstinence only policy


kelli Busey
January 22, 2009
planetransgender

TransTexas to TransOhio

TransOhio Blog on what it is like to be born transgender and living in the Transgender oasis of Columbus in the middle of Ohio.

"Ohio is one of only three states in the United States that does not allow the gender marker on an individuals birth certificate to be changed—a key document for obtaining other legal documents, such as a marriage license. Idaho and Tennessee are the other two."

The said truth is the same life destroying effect that Ohioans suffer from this states refusal to amend or reissue birth certificates are felt interstate and and even globally.
It had become a matter of extreme contention at my job over this discrepancy after Human Resources called after being notified by the Social Security Administration that the person they were filing SS tax on was male, not female.
I was born in Cleveland Ohio and have been unsuccessful at amending my birth certificate and will not be allowed by the SSA to change my gender marker until that time.
Last week my first line supervisor finished a humiliating phone call which I ended after he said, "well why don't you quit and we can rehire you as a man." (Its a grand gosip topic in the office now) Wow. What a twit.
Now the jackals have grasped this perceived weakness as an opportunity to threaten my pay on a daily basis, the buzz word is suspension. Daily.
The state of Texas issued a court order which the DMV could not deny that required them to change my name and gender marker on my CDL which I depend on to make a living.
If my employer decides to fire me for being a legal citizen I will take them to court and hopefully own their prize real estate abutting Walmart in Lowell Arkansas.
In the mean while. Yeah. Losing a job for a transgender person can be a death sentence.

Also found on
The Other Paper

By Kelli Busey
January 22, 2009
planetransgender

Task Force: Robinson's exclusion from HBO televised coverage 'profoundly disappointing and disturbing'

January 19, 2009


MEDIA CONTACT:
Inga Sarda-Sorensen
Director of Communications
(Office) 646.358.1463
(Cell) 202.641.5592
isorensen@theTaskForce.org

WASHINGTON, Jan. 19 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force responds to the exclusion of Bishop Gene Robinson from HBO's televised coverage of Sunday's "We Are One" inaugural event.

Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

“Bishop Gene Robinson is an inspiration to millions worldwide because he lives out the ideals of courage, humility and truth-speaking. It is profoundly disappointing and disturbing that HBO viewers did not have the opportunity to watch Robinson, a genuine hero to so many in our community and others around the globe, give his powerful prayer at Sunday’s ‘We Are One’ inaugural event. Our nation becomes better and stronger when given the chance to hear from the diversity of its people. This did not happen with Bishop Robinson, and absolutely should have.”

–30–

The mission of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is to build the grassroots power of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. We do this by training activists, equipping state and local organizations with the skills needed to organize broad-based campaigns to defeat anti-LGBT referenda and advance pro-LGBT legislation, and building the organizational capacity of our movement. Our Policy Institute, the movement’s premier think tank, provides research and policy analysis to support the struggle for complete equality and to counter right-wing lies. As part of a broader social justice movement, we work to create a nation that respects the diversity of human expression and identity and creates opportunity for all. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., we also have offices in New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis and Cambridge.

Prayers for Bobby Lifetime January 24th at 9pm ET

Don’t miss Lifetime’s new book-to-movie premiere of Leroy Aaron’s “Prayers for Bobby” January 24th at 9PM ET.
Academy Award nominee and Golden Globe winner Sigourney Weaver stars in this emotional true story about a 1970s religious suburban housewife and mother who struggles to accept her young son Bobby being gay. What happens to Bobby is tragic and causes Mary to question her faith; ultimately this mom changes her views in ways that she never could have imagined.



Cast, crew, and interviews

Obama first Day : reconstituting American Justice

Justice will prevail.

Within hours of taking office, President Obama took the important first step to close Guantánamo: halting the unconstitutional military commissions by ordering the prosecution to seek a 120-day suspension.

It’s the first step in what we hope will be a series of bold measures to free America from the civil liberties outrages and human rights abuses of the Bush era.

The pundits and political experts told the ACLU we should “hold our horses” -- that it wouldn’t be right to expect swift action from Obama. You and half a million ACLU supporters didn’t listen to them -- and neither did our new President!

Let’s match President Obama’s first step forward with a powerful show of support and encouragement.

Sign the ACLU’s “Thanks for acting on Day One” message to President Obama.

Close Gitmo.com

Integrity Celebrates Bishop Gene Robinson’s Historic Presence In The Inaugural Celebrations

Monday, January 19, 2009
Integrity Celebrates Bishop Gene Robinson’s Historic Presence In The Inaugural Celebrations

January 19, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LOS ANGELES--"There are miles to go before we rest in this journey toward being truly a nation of liberty and justice for ‘all,’” said Integrity President Susan Russell, “but when Bishop Gene Robinson took his place at the podium at the Lincoln Memorial yesterday we all moved closer toward realizing that goal. In addition to offering the invocation at Sunday’s Inaugural Concert, we are thrilled that Bishop Robinson will be among the invited guests at the prayer service on the Tuesday morning, will attend the swearing in ceremony, will view the Inaugural Parade from the Presidential viewing stand, and will attend the National Prayer Service at National Cathedral on Wednesday.

"Any disappointment that Bishop Robinson’s powerful opening prayer was not part of the HBO broadcast pales in comparison to the power of his iconic presence at the Lincoln Memorial on this historic occasion. Bishop Robinson’s invocation included prayers for patience, safety, and compassion, and to 'Bless us with anger--at discrimination, at home and abroad, against refugees and immigrants, women, people of color, gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.' It will echo through the ages as words of hope, vision, and promise.

"We look forward to both the opportunities and challenges ahead as we enter a new era of partnership in our common commitment to overcome bias, bigotry and discrimination for all Americans."

Press Contact:
The Rev. Susan Russell, President
(626) 583-2741 office
(714) 356-5718 mobile
president@integrity usa.org
Posted by Integrity USA at 5:28 PM

Indonesia Transexual Fourm : Goverment Stop Harrasment, Beatings and Murders

Indonesia, a predominately Muslim country not know for it's progressive attitude towards transgender people is the site of the first ever conference aimed at ending discrimination in the island country.
According to a Jakarta Globe article,
"On Friday, the group is scheduled to meet with members of the House of Representatives’ Commissions III and IX in Jakarta to deliver a list of demands for equal access to public health care, social welfare and employment, as well as new policies to end discrimination against transgender citizens, said conference organizer Widodo Budi Darmo of Arus Pelangi , or Rainbow Stream, a national federation of the gay, lesbian, transsexual and bisexual communities."

“Our main agenda is to empower transsexuals so that their existence is acknowledged,” Yulianus Rettoblaut, head of the Indonesian Transsexuals Communications Forum, or FKWI, said on Sunday, the opening day of the conference.

Yulianus, 47, who was nominated in 2007 to serve on the Indonesian Human Rights Commission representing the transgender community was denied that position due to a test administrated by the House of Representatives, possibly due to her sexual orientation.

Also found on
Transgender News

By Kelli Busey
Jan. 19, 2009
planetransgender

President Obama, Bishop Robinson and Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies (DTAA)

HRC email received 01-17-09

"Dear kelli,

Tomorrow, in one of the most humbling honors of my life, I will deliver an invocation at the first event of inauguration week.
Though many of us were deeply upset when President-elect Obama chose Proposition 8 supporter Rev. Rick Warren to speak at his inauguration, the fact that he also invited me – a proud gay man – is a hopeful sign of our president's commitment to reach out to all Americans.
Now it's up to all of us to capitalize on this moment and ensure that President-elect Obama works for equality.
Join me in asking Obama to take the next step by supporting HRC's Blueprint for Positive Change – a roadmap for LGBT equality."~Bishop V Gene Robinson

I support HRC's roadmap to equality because it is in the best interest of the entire GLBT community.

What brought bishop Robinson into this picture above with the Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies(DTAA) is the gulf of misunderstandings and ignorance of the established church about transgender and Queer issues and sensibilities. The Dallas Black Tie inc. which was hosting Bishop Robinson and presenting him with the Elizabeth Birch Award later that evening was ironically named for a former president of HRC who is credited with saying she would "include transgender people in ENDA over her dead body" .

The Dallas Black Tie Inc. presents HRC with roughly $400,000 dollars annually from this event alone. I protest HRC for inexplicably blindsiding Queer and transgender people in a backroom deal, removing us from ENDA (HR)2015 and assenting to Congressman Frank in dividing our communities human rights movement in 2007. The words Bishop Robinson and I spoke during or conversation were often foreign and left unresolved misunderstandings. In my heart of hearts
I still beleive and have personaly witnessed in our own church's how transgender people because of our highly visible hacking, beating and shooting deaths are being used by HRC as sympathy garners and a method of raising money to party at "Gala Events".

A despicable and unchristian practice.

Yes Joe Solomese and Bishop Robinson, others have also noticed.

HRC will have to prove to me by being a loyal and trustworthy advocate over time you are a worthy ally. This is a demand, not a request and is nonnegotiable.

The fact Bishop Robinson attended the Dallas Transgender event speaks volumes of the progressive nature of our Episcopal Diosese of New Hampshire and we should give accolades to Bishop Robinson for this great achievement, however we cannot assume Queer and Transgender concerns are being voiced at the table with the same passion and equity as Gay and Lesbians are by Bishop Robinson.

I personally feel that the Transgender Community has an opportunity and an obligation to step up and let ourselves be heard NOW. We can not rely on ANY central group to secure our place in history. It is up to you and me everyday in small and large ways to be the change.

Kelli Busey
Jan. 17, 2009
planetransgender

planetransgender
Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies(DTAA)

Honduran Transgender Community Terrified After Third Murder

By On Top Magazine Staff Published: January 16, 2009 Honduran Transgender Community Terrified After Third Murder

The violent murder of a prominent transgender rights activist in Honduras has left the transgender community stunned and terrified.

Cynthia Nicole, a prominent transgender rights activist, was fatally wounded by three shots in the chest and one in the head in a violent drive-by shooting in the district of Barrio Guaserique in Comayaguela during the early hours of January 9.

Her death comes on the heels of two additional killings against transgender sex workers in the Central American country. Yasmin was attacked and killed on November 20, and Noelia was stabbed to death on December 17

Complete article at On Top

"Equality For All Texans Support HB 538"

"Equality For All Texans Support HB 538" A Facebook Group which is seeking to inform and gain support for the introduction and passage of a Sexual and Gender workplace non discrimination bill in the present session of the Texan Legislature.

House Bill 538 prohibits employers from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression.(Click here for HB538 Text)

The bill will incorporate sexual orientation and gender identity/expression into all existing labor code sections dealing with nondiscrimination, treating them equally with race, color, disability, religion, sex, national origin, or age

GET INVOLVED:
1) Call your state representative directly and inform him/her know that as their constituent this bill is very important to you as well as why it is important. And ask your friends and family call their representatives.
Click here to find out who your State Representative is.

2) Pass this information to everyone you know whether or not they are gay.

3) Post this information on your MySpace, Facebook or any other online community that you belong to.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

HOW A BILL GET'S PASSED AT A GLANCE!

1) A State Representative files the bill in the house (in this case it has been Bdone)

2) In a few weeks the bill will get assigned to a committee.

3) A hearing is then scheduled in which any one (including you) can go before the panel and state your case. (Once the bill get’s to this step everyone will be informed so that we can all caravan up to Austin to state our
case.)

4) The Committee will vote on whether or not it will go before the House of Representatives and if the bill is approved by the committee:

5) The bill then goes to the Calendar Committee which schedules the bill for a vote. (This is a process that we as a community need to monitor closely because
not all bills get scheduled. If a bill does not get scheduled then it dies.)

6) At the time determined by the Calendar committee The House of
Representatives will then vote on the Bill. If the bill passes:
7) The State Senate will vote whether or not the bill goes before the Governor.
If the State Senate approves the bill:

8) The Governor will then have final say as to whether or not the bill becomes
a law.


By Kelli Busey
Jan. 15, 2009
planetransgender

National Freedom to Marry Day

National Freedom to Marry Day
Feb 12, 2009

On National Freedom to Marry Day, all Marriage Equality USA® Chapters and Member Organizations will participate in Marriage Equality USA's National Freedom to Marry Events. Marriage Equality USA® has also partnered with Join The Impact for this national event. Thursday, February 12, 2009, at local marriage counters in cities all over the country, same-sex couples will request marriage licenses at their local County Clerk’s Offices to raise awareness of the harms and impact the inability to marry causes on their families.



Since 2001, Marriage Equality USA® chapters have engaged in these annual marriage counter actions to render visible the discrimination that is enforced every day. It is an affront to our basic dignity as fellow human beings when same-sex couples are turned away from the marriage counter, but it gives us the opportunity to tell our stories and show that we live in every community and want to honor and protect our families like everyone else. Everyone who supports marriage equality is welcomed to attend and support this event.

By Kelli Busey
Jan. 15, 2009
planetransgender

TEXAS to decide fate of Gender inclusive "ENDA" HB508

By: Villarreal H.B. No. 538

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to the prohibition of employment discrimination on the
basis of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Section 21.002, Labor Code, is amended by adding
Subdivisions (9-a) and (13-a) to read as follows:
(9-a) "Gender identity or expression" means having or
being perceived as having a gender-related identity, appearance,
expression, or behavior, whether or not that identity, appearance,
expression, or behavior is different from that commonly associated
with the person's actual or perceived sex.
(13-a) "Sexual orientation" means the actual or
perceived status of an individual with respect to the individual's
sexuality.
SECTION 2. Section 21.051, Labor Code, is amended to read as
follows:
Sec. 21.051. DISCRIMINATION BY EMPLOYER. An employer
commits an unlawful employment practice if because of race, color,
disability, religion, sex, national origin, [or] age, sexual
orientation, or gender identity or expression the employer:
(1) fails or refuses to hire an individual, discharges
an individual, or discriminates in any other manner against an
individual in connection with compensation or the terms,
conditions, or privileges of employment; or
(2) limits, segregates, or classifies an employee or
applicant for employment in a manner that would deprive or tend to
deprive an individual of any employment opportunity or adversely
affect in any other manner the status of an employee.
Full bill at www.legis.state.tx.us

Please contact Representative Michael Villarreal and tell him that you support his efforts.

By Kelli Busey
Jan. 14, 2009
planetransgender

Tell Pepsi THANK YOU For Supporting Our Families!

Last week, the American Family Association launched a boycott of PepsiCo. The AFA boycott is based, in part, on the PepsiCo Foundation's support of PFLAG’s Straight for Equality in the Workplace project.

Please let Pepsi know that you appreciate their support for our families and will support the company when you are shopping.

Please call PepsiCo's customer relations line at 1-800-433-2652 today.

When you call, please be brief in your comments. Politely tell the operator that:

You are a PFLAG member and want to thank Pepsi for its support of your family;
You plan to purchase Pepsi products whenever possible to show your support for the company’s welcoming policies; and
You support Pepsi and your area bottlers and will refuse to participate in the boycott.


For more information on Pepsi’s generous gift to Straight for Equality, click here.

Thank you for your support of PFLAG, Straight for Equality and PepsiCo. Then, forward this alert to all of your friends . . . ask them to support PepsiCo . . . and remember when you shop to buy Pepsi products, like Tropicana, Frito Lay, Quaker and Gatorade.

New York Civil Liberties Union-President Obama CLOSE GITMO AND END THE MILITARY COMMISSIONS

“As President, I will close Guantánamo, reject the Military Commissions Act, and adhere to the Geneva Conventions”
– Barack Obama 8/1/07

Tell President elect Obama you support the restitution of American justice and social equality by signing this letter by the New York Civil Liberties Union!

Dear President-elect Obama,

I was deeply moved by your recent affirmation that you will close the Guantánamo detention facilities and shut down the military commissions, which have been a stain on America here, at home and abroad.

Nothing would make me prouder than to see you act on your first day in office to restore America's moral leadership in the world.

With one stroke of your pen, you can close Guantánamo Bay prison, shut down military commissions, and ban torture.

The Bush administration created a prison camp at Guantánamo - a place where they claimed the law didn't apply. They detained hundreds of men without charge or trial, authorized torture, and prosecuted some prisoners in military commissions that violate our Constitution and international law.

We can't let the system of injustice George W. Bush put in place stand - not for a single day.

I want you to know that I will support your leadership on this vitally important issue in every possible way. And I will stand by you every step of the way to resist those calling for you to "go slow" or "wait for the right time" to act in defense of American freedom.

New York Civil Liberties Union.

Transgender and Gay Ordinance in Kalamazoo under Attack

Kalamazoo's new Gay and Transgender city ordinances are being challenged and the Kalamazoo Alliance says your Help is Needed to Keep the new Equal Rights Ordinance in Kalamazoo.

"Join us at City Hall on Monday, January 12 at 6pm for the City Commission Meeting on the second floor of City Hall."

Kalamazoo news " The commission unanimously approved amendments Dec. 1 making it a civil infraction to discriminate against gay, lesbian or transgender individuals in housing, public accommodations or employment."

"But a petition drive spearheaded by the American Family Association of Michigan collected more than enough signatures in the 20 days after the new ordinance language became effective to bring the issue back to the commission and potentially to a public vote."

"Regardless of the action commissioners take Monday night, the expanded protections will not be enforceable, at least in the short term, says City Attorney Clyde Robinson."

A direct vote in May could decide whether Kalamazoo will remain the 17th Michigan city to extend human rights to Gay, Lesbian and Transgender people.

By kelli Busey
Jan. 11, 2009
planetransgender

Dallas DOMA Protest January 2009

There were aprox. 35 protesters attending the rally on the square at 509 Main St. to bring attention to the incoming Obama administration of the inequities being suffered by the GLBT community under DOMA.
We did however attract group of hate mongers who after being escorted across the street by the police proceeded to yell hate inspired slogans as we peacefully continued our rally. After a while of this they knelt and began to pray, I presume asking for forgiveness for being such huge bigots. I also prayed for them. God please forgive these mislead disciples. They have been taught to hate and spread violence enabling vicious lies. Please help them to love their neighbours. Amen.


By Kelli Busey
Jan. 10, 2009
planetransgender

Gainesville Fl : Misleading Anti Transgender Ad Exposed

A Florida based Hate Group has unleashed a propaganda campaign insinuating that if Gainesville Fl transgender protective laws are allowed to stand men will follow your childern into bathrooms.

According to Fox News Gainesville City Commissioner Crag Lowe, the leader of a group called Equality is Gainesville's Business, has called the ads from Davis' group a grossly distorted attempt to whip up fears.



The train of thought which would lead to the conclusion that enacting human rights to protect a vulnerable class of people would embolden pedophiles to commit crimes when previously the lack of same laws prohibited them is beyond me. The group "Citizens for Good Public Policy", who produced this video were called on to answer for this misleading ad after citizens learned of the deception and would not return calls from FOX News.

This video is a attack against me. The last thing a transgender person wants is to offend anyone much less assault anyone. Quite the opposite. Transgender people are the ones being victimized.

The only thing missing from that video was men dragging this man out of the ladies room and lynching him.

I live in a city where transgender people are protected by laws similar to Gainesville. There has been no increase of crime targeting children attributable to enactment of gender protective laws in this city or any other city or state.

Queers United: Dr. Phil Playing Into Transphobia Once Again!

Queers United: Dr. Phil Playing Into Transphobia Once Again!

MassEquality Trans Focused in 20+09

Bay Windows : "MassEquality, the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition (MTPC), and their coalition partners have made passage of the trans rights bill - which would add protections based on gender identity and expression to the state’s non-discrimination and hate crimes laws - their top priority this session...."

Marc Solomon, executive director of MassEquality, said the organizaton would hold its own community forums across the state in an effort to convince people who were active during the marriage fight to get involved in pass the transgender rights bill. Solomon said he will ask MassEquality’s gay and lesbian supporters to fight for the bill both as a matter of social justice and because the bill will offer protections to the entire LGBT community.

"It’s not that difficult to get people to that place because gay and lesbian people are discriminated against for their gender identity and gender expression," said Solomon.

US Ad Campaign Teaches Students to be Word-Wise about Sexual Orientation

Voice of America news:US Ad Campaign Teaches Students to be Word-Wise about Sexual Orientation

A recent survey of more than 6,000 middle and high school students in the United States found that a majority of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students surveyed said they experienced harassment at school in the past year.

Often, harassment comes in homophobic remarks, which is why The Ad Council of America has teamed up with GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network to try and change students' vocabulary, or at least make them more conscious of it.


By Kelli Busey
Jan 08, 2009
planetransgender

Thomas Hammarberg Europe's Commissioner for Human Rights: Trans discrimination must no longer be tolerated

pinknews.co.uk: Thomas Hammarberg is the Council of Europe's Commissioner for Human Rights released this comment on trans rights on his website yesterday.

“Discrimination against transgender persons must no longer be tolerated”

"My discussions with non-governmental organisations defending the rights of transgender persons indicate that a number of such hate crimes go unreported – even in serious cases. One of the reasons appears to be a lack of trust in the police."

"I have been struck by the lack of knowledge about the human rights issues at stake for transgender persons, even among political decision-makers. This is probably the reason why more has not been done to address transphobia and discrimination based on gender identity. The result is that individuals are discriminated against all over Europe, in areas such as as employment, health care and housing."

Connecticut To Consider Transgender Anti-Discrimination Proposal

Hartford Courant, CT, USA Connecticut To Consider Transgender Anti-Discrimination

Transgender activists believe this is the year they will gain equal protection under the state's anti-discrimination laws.

"We feel good," said Jerimarie Liesegang, who leads the Connecticut TransAdvocacy Coalition. "We've done the groundwork, we've done the education and we know we have the votes."

A proposal, to be introduced in the legislative session that begins Wednesday, would prevent people who in any way blur gender lines from being discriminated against in the workplace or while seeking housing or obtaining credit. More than a dozen states, including California, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Oregon and Rhode Island, have enacted similar laws.