At RippleMatch, we stand with the transgender community, recognizing the importance of equal rights, respect, and inclusion for all. This week, we honor the courage and strength of transgender individuals and allies as we continue to break down barriers and work towards a world free of discrimination and prejudice.
Transgender Awareness Week is recognized November 13th -19th culminating with Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20th. It serves as a reminder that every person's identity is valid, and their voices matter. Let's create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive, be their true selves, and chase their dreams without fear of bias or bigotry.
At RippleMatch we value education as a powerful tool for promoting diversity and to help create awareness, so we wanted to share a few of our favorite resources to learn more about the Transgender community and experience.
Books
Blue Stockings Bookstore is a New York City based store that hosts both virtual in person DEI related events. They have a wide array of LGBTQIA+ books, including some great historical books on the trangender experience. You can purchase books online to be shipped or stop by the store if you are in the area. They also host virtual book clubs related to transgender issues that are welcome to the public. Here are some recommended reading selections for Transgender Awareness that you can easily purchase from Blue Stockings online:
Pageboy - A Memoir by actor Elliott Page that touches on Page’s coming out as transgender
None of the Above: Reflections of Life Beyond the Binary - Travis Alabanza’s memoir on the experience of identifying as a non binary person of color
Gender Euphoria - An anthology written by 19 transgender, non-binary and intersex writers
TED Talks
Sharing a TED talk with your colleagues can be a simple and effective way to educate each other on what it means to be transgender. A couple of my favorite talks that I have shared at RippleMatch on this important week are:
How to talk (and listen) to transgender people by TED resident Jackson Bird
A short history of trans people's long fight for equality by trans activist by Samy Nour Younes
Podcasts
Podcasts are an informative and often entertaining way to feature transgender voices and Spotify has several podcasts that feature prominent members of the trans community. Here are two podcasts that I love listening to and sharing with my colleagues:
The Laverne Cox Show - Hosted by award winning transgender actor Laverne Cox, The Laverne Cox show features a different member of the LGBTQIA+ community each week and tackles important current issues from the justice system to healthcare.
Gender Reveal - Hosted by Tuck Woodstock, Gender Reveal centers around non binary, transgender and queer voices. They interview a new LGBTQ+ artist, activist or educator each week.
Transgender Activists and Influencers to follow on Social Media
Following transgender activists and influencers on social media can be a valuable educational resource in promoting understanding, empathy, and awareness of transgender issues. These individuals often share their personal stories, experiences, and knowledge, providing insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by the transgender community. They help break down stereotypes, debunk myths, and foster inclusivity by educating their followers on the complexities of gender identity, transgender healthcare, and the importance of respecting pronouns and gender expression. Here are a few suggested profiles to check out and follow:
Trace Lysette - Trace Lysette is an American actress whose most notable roles include Shea in the television series Transparent and Tracey in the feature film Hustlers. Her instagram features updates on her upcoming appearances and filmwork.
Janet Mock - Janet Mock is an American writer, television host, director, producer and transgender rights activist. Her debut book, the memoir Redefining Realness, became a New York Times bestseller. Her Instagram is consistently updated with upcoming speaking engagement and events.
Alok Vaid-Menon - Alok Vaid-Menon is an American writer, performance artist, and media personality. Vaid-Menon is gender non-conforming and transfeminine, and uses the singular they third-person pronouns. Alok regularly goes live on instagram to take questions.
NonProfits and Educational Resources
Transgender non-profit organizations play a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting understanding of transgender issues. These organizations are dedicated to providing support, resources, and advocacy for the transgender community. By offering services such as counseling, healthcare information, and legal support, these non-profits directly impact the well-being of transgender individuals and their ability to live authentic lives. Additionally, they engage in policy advocacy, fighting for equitable treatment and legislation that protects transgender rights. I’ve listed several below that offer exceptional resources on their websites.
Sylvia Rivera Law Project The Sylvia Rivera Law Project is a legal aid organization based in New York City at the Miss Major-Jay Toole Building for Social Justice that serves low-income or people of color who are transgender, intersex and/or gender non-conforming. They provide free legal services and have a wealth of legal resources on their website.
The Trevor Project The Trevor Project is a non profit that focuses on suicide prevention amongst LGBTQIA+ youth. They offer free counseling services and a free hotline number to provide confidential assistance.
National Center For Transgender Equality The National Center for Transgender Equality is a non profit that provides advocacy and educational resources. NCTE works on affecting policy change with both a legal services network as well as a racial and economic justice initiative.
As we embrace Transgender Awareness Week at RippleMatch, we reiterate our unwavering support for the transgender community and our commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and equitable workplace. It is imperative to recognize the importance of upholding equal rights and showing respect for every individual, regardless of their gender identity. Transgender Awareness Week reminds us that every person's identity is valid and their voices are essential. Our mission is to create a nurturing environment where everyone can flourish, be their authentic selves, and pursue their aspirations without the burden of bias or discrimination.
To further our commitment to diversity and inclusion, we've shared valuable resources that offer insight into the transgender experience, including books, TED Talks, and podcasts, influencers, and educational resources. These materials provide a platform for education, understanding, and celebration of transgender voices. In the spirit of unity and enlightenment, we encourage you to explore these resources, engage in conversations, and take meaningful steps toward building a more inclusive and accepting workplace. By doing so, we can contribute to a world where diversity and authenticity are celebrated, and all voices are heard and valued. Together, we can make a difference.