Unwaivering

       Here are some of the top transgender-friendly companies in America that have been recognized for their inclusive policies and supportive environments, and what some employees say: Netflix : Offers comprehensive transgender healthcare benefits and actively supports its trans and non-binary employees.  "Netflix has been a game-changer for me. Their comprehensive transgender healthcare benefits and supportive environment have made a huge difference in my life." - Alex, Netflix Employee Amazon : Provides gender-affirming care and resources, fostering a culture of acceptance and support.  "Amazon's gender-affirming care and resources have been incredibly supportive. It's great to work for a company that truly values diversity and inclusion." - Jamie, Amazon Employee HSBC : Announced a "gender dysphoria benefit" in 2023, covering gender-affirming surgeries and treatments for its trans and non-binary staff.  "HSBC's gender dysphoria benefi...

      February 8, 2025 will be the nine month anniversary since I began this journey.  Up to this point, I've held true to the name of this blog:  "Unwaivering".  That's not to say I haven't had my moments of uncertainty.  To be honest, there have been times when I've wondered about my sanity.  There have been days leading into weeks of wondering if I face rejection from my friends and family and nights when anxiety had such a grip on me that I awakened in the middle of the night, screaming in absolute terror.  Still, I've held the course.     I have yet to talk to my four adult children about this.  I don't think there will be any talk about it, though.  Only one of them lives in the area; the others are scattered about.  Half of them don't want anything to do with each other, so getting them all together wouldn't be possible, anyway.  I wasn't wanting to have four different discussions with them about this, so ...

     Transgender identities are an important part of the diverse spectrum of human experiences. To foster understanding and inclusivity, it's essential to be familiar with the key terms and concepts that define and describe transgender experiences. Here’s a guide to help educate and enlighten: Transgender (Trans)      An umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. This includes trans men, trans women, and non-binary individuals. Cisgender (Cis)      A term used to describe individuals whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. It’s the opposite of transgender. Gender Identity      One's internal sense of their own gender, which may be male, female, a blend of both, neither, or something else entirely. This identity can be the same or different from the sex assigned at birth. Gender Expression      The external manifestation of one's ...

       Transgender individuals have made significant contributions across various fields, breaking barriers and inspiring countless others. Here are twenty trans role models and icons who have made a lasting impact: Laverne Cox - Actress and activist known for her role in "Orange is the New Black" and her advocacy work. MJ Rodriguez - Actress who made history as the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe. Lili Elbe - One of the first people to undergo gender reassignment surgery, inspiring the book and film "The Danish Girl." Rachel Levine - The first openly transgender federal official confirmed by the U.S. Senate, serving as Assistant Secretary for Health. Valentina Sampaio - Brazilian model who became the first trans model to work with Victoria’s Secret and appear in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Andreja Pejic - Supermodel who walked both men’s and women’s fashion shows before transitioning. Caroline Cossey - British model known for her role in t...

      As a trans advocate, it's vital to shed light on the truth and counteract the many misconceptions that persist about trans individuals. Education and empathy can pave the way for a freer, more equal society. Let’s dive into some common myths and debunk them with facts: Myth #1: Being Trans Is Just a Phase Reality: Being transgender is not a phase or a trend. It’s a deeply rooted aspect of an individual's identity. For many, their gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. This realization can come at any age, and once understood, it’s not something that "goes away." Studies have shown that gender identity is an inherent part of who someone is, rather than a temporary phase.  (If it was just a phase, every trans individual would be screwed when it went away.  How badly would depend on how far into the journey we had gone.  Had you gotten the bottom surgery yet?  Have you gotten the top surgery?  Personally,...

       As a trans advocate, I cannot emphasize enough the critical role that a solid support network plays in the lives of transgender individuals. Navigating the journey of gender identity can be challenging, and having a reliable support system can make all the difference. Here's why a support network is essential and how you can cultivate one. Why a Support Network Matters Emotional Support : Transitioning can be an emotional rollercoaster. Having people who understand, respect, and accept your identity can provide the emotional stability needed to navigate the highs and lows. This support can come from friends, family, partners, or even support groups who offer empathy and understanding. Mental Health : Studies have shown that trans individuals with strong support networks are less likely to experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Supportive relationships can foster a sense of belonging and reduce the feelings of isolation that many trans ...

       Gender-affirming surgery for transwomen often involves creating labia to align their physical appearance with their gender identity. The process can vary depending on the individual's anatomy and the surgeon's expertise. Here's a detailed look at the tissues commonly used and alternative options. Primary Tissue Used: Scrotal Tissue      In many cases, surgeons use scrotal tissue to create the labia. The scrotal skin is well-suited for this purpose due to its texture and elasticity, which closely resemble the natural labia. The procedure typically involves: Penile-Inversion Vaginoplasty : The skin of the penis is inverted to form the vaginal canal, while the scrotal skin is used to create the labia majora and minora. This method provides a natural appearance and feel. Labia Majora Creation : The outer labia (labia majora) are formed using the outer layers of the scrotal skin. This tissue is shaped and positioned to create a symmetrical and aesthe...

Coping Mechanisms for Managing Gender Dysphoria Connecting with Supportive Communities : Finding and joining communities of people who share similar experiences can provide a valuable support network. Online platforms, social media groups, local LGBTQ+ centers, and peer support groups are great places to start. These connections can offer validation, empathy, and a sense of belonging. Therapeutic Practices : Engaging with a mental health professional who specializes in gender identity and dysphoria can provide essential support. Therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help in managing negative thoughts and feelings related to gender dysphoria. Self-Expression : Experimenting with gender presentation can be empowering. This can include changes in clothing, hairstyles, makeup, and binding or packing, which can help with aligning one’s external appearance with their gender identity. It's important to do so safely and seek advice from trusted sources or professionals i...

       As a Right-leaning Libertarian, I disagree with the notion that healthcare is a right.  If it was, it would be completely free; you wouldn't need to pay for it, whether directly (out-of-pocket/insurance premiums), or indirectly (exorbitant tax rates).  However, that being said, I do believe that every individual should be able to acquire whatever form of healthcare they have need of.  Yet many transgender individuals continue to face significant barriers in obtaining the care they need. Gender-affirming healthcare, which includes medical, psychological (if needed), and social support tailored to the needs of transgender and non-binary people, is vital for the well-being of trans individuals. Ensuring accessible and inclusive healthcare is not only a matter of equality but also a necessity for the dignity and health of the trans community. The Importance of Gender-Affirming Healthcare      Gender-affirming healthcare encompasses a ...

     As a passionate advocate for transgender rights, I am deeply concerned about the implications of H.R. 28, a bill that seeks to amend the Education Amendments of 1972 to define sex based solely on reproductive biology and genetics at birth. This bill poses a significant threat to the rights and well-being of transgender individuals, particularly in the realm of athletics. It is crucial that we come together to oppose this legislation and protect the rights of all students, regardless of their gender identity. The Impact on Transgender Students      H.R. 28 would effectively exclude transgender students from participating in sports teams that align with their gender identity. This exclusion not only undermines the principles of fairness and equality but also has profound negative effects on the mental and emotional well-being of transgender youth. Participation in sports provides valuable opportunities for personal growth, teamwork, and a sense of belong...

     "Trans women aren't real women!"  UGH!  How many times have we heard that one?  Sometimes, I'd like to counter with, "Stupid people aren't real people."  But, of course, trans women are real women!  Just the same as stupid people are real people... they're just... you know... STUPID!  The problem is not that trans women aren't real women; the problem is that too many people are stuck on the old ways of thinking.  Instead of using the mindset, "this is the way we've always done things," the way forward is to accept the universal truth that change is the rule of growth.      Trans women are real women. Gender is an identity that goes beyond just biology, and it's about how a person feels and identifies themselves. Here are a few key points that might help to understand and support the idea that trans women are real women: Gender Identity : Gender is not solely determined by physical characteristics at birth. It’s deepl...

       In a world that often seems focused on our struggles, it's important to take a moment and celebrate the unique joys and triumphs of being transgender. Every journey is different, but there are some universal experiences that unite us and bring a sense of fulfillment and pride. Here are a few reasons why being transgender is a beautiful, empowering journey. 1. Living Authentically      One of the most profound joys of being transgender is the ability to live life authentically. For many of us, coming to terms with our gender identity and embracing it fully is a journey filled with self-discovery and empowerment. The moment when you can look in the mirror and see yourself as you truly are is nothing short of liberating. 2. Building Stronger Connections      Being transgender often means building a deeper and more genuine connection with ourselves, but it also opens the door to stronger, more meaningful relationships with others. Whe...

      I published a post on my two Facebook accounts this morning that I've been wanting to create for a while.  While the post didn't serve to come out as transgender, it did let people know that I don't listen to the haters, and that they shouldn't, either.  Following is the body of that post:      Did you know...?      The terms “mental illness” and “psychological condition” are often used interchangeably, but that is (to say the least) dishonest because they actually have their own distinct meanings.      Mental illness refers to a diagnosable disorder that significantly affects a person's thinking, feeling, mood, or behavior. It is recognized and classified in medical manuals such as the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). Examples of such are depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Mental illnesses often require profess...