Kelli Busey comments to DART Board Members Feb. 9, 2010

Dear chairman Velasco and board members,

Thank you for you unselfish commitment to bettering the regions public transportation system. As time progresses America will come to highly appreciate the work you are doing now.

I am kelli Busey. Co administrator of the Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies. I also author a Dallas positive blog, planetransgender.

A lot has already been said about what has filled this room with people so passionate about fairness and equality. I wish to focus on the present and the future.

The Dallas Fort Worth region has long enjoyed robust prosperity and growth which in part is brought by a perception people have. A vision all people have before they even depart for a convention or Gala event in the DFW. People think of the DFW as a safe place for visitors. A place that companies when consider moving here, take into consideration that Dallas is a city that will welcome all of there employees, LGBT included.

This perception held by residents and visitors alike is due in part to the commitment the city of Dallas has to LGBT human rights.

I beleive that vision is our reality, but our reputation as a welcoming city for all GLBT people is receiving negative press worldwide which would lead one to beleive otherwise.

The Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies have encountered a situation not unlike the one DART finds it self in today. A situation that nothing positive could possibly result.

However there is a option. I would like to invite you Chairman Velasco, and Board members, to attend a meeting that may very well be the answer that we mutually seek.

The Dallas Office of fair housing which is tasked with enforcing the Cities gender inclusive nondiscrimination ordinance has graciously offered to attend such a meeting in a educational role. The North Texas chamber of Commerce would also like to contribute it's experiences and share with you what it has done to make equality truly Dallas's business.

I will leave with you my contact information and I would like to arrange such a meeting at your convenience.

Thank you,

Kelli Anne Busey
Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies