This week is Transgender Awareness week, and it will end on Sunday November 20, 2022, as we recognize Transgender Day of Awareness. I write this blog because my middle child has 2 of their closest friends transitioning from female to male. These two have become a part of our family and we support them as they make this transition to their true selves. I am in awe of their courage. But I also know the struggles they and many in the Transgender community go through as they try to live the life as the person, they know they are.
The data and the statistics tell us that there is a high suicide rate among the transgender community. We also know the rates of violence have increased as well. When I read or hear about a young person who has struggled with identity, and they are turned away by friends and family and their only choice is to take their own lives breaks my heart. This is something as a society that we should never except. When we choose to violate the dignity of others by not accepting them for who they are, by not including them, or taking the time to understand them it can lead to isolation, depression, and eventually suicide. Dignity violations are life changing for those whose dignity is taken from them. It is like stopping their heart and without a beating heart we cannot survive. I have been in that dark place where hope is gone.
So as Transgender Day of Awareness approaches please take this moment to remember all those we have lost to suicide and violence but also to remember those who continue the fight to live the life they choose. As a person who believes in honoring dignity and believes in defending the human rights of other, I will use my new role as Diversity Officer to commit to supporting improving services to our Transgender community and all those whose voices go unheard.
Charles Redd RN
Dignity Freedom Fighter
Dignity Freedom Fighter 