How do you respond to transphobia in your social life?
At my zumba class last night a discussion arose regarding a friend who is estranged from his biological father, because the father transitioned from male to female with no discussion with his kids, who are young adults.
Apparently the son feels embarrassed by the situation and insecure, thinking people will think less of him if he’s open about his father’s transition.
Of course, I said you should be proud of him for being his authentic self, that took a lot of courage, especially in our area. And the rest of the group of ladies, all were fairly mean and derogatory.
The person I was speaking with was the youngest in the group, so I am hoping I reached her, but I’m wondering what I SHOULD have said. At some point, I decided just to shut up, because they weren’t being empathetic or kind, but it upset me. It was a very frustrating conversation and I’m extremely disappointed in the participants for being so close-minded. I don’t want to quit my class, but I don’t want to get close with people like that either. And at least two of them were politically liberal, which threw me for a loop, as well. What would you suggest?
Apparently the son feels embarrassed by the situation and insecure, thinking people will think less of him if he’s open about his father’s transition.
Of course, I said you should be proud of him for being his authentic self, that took a lot of courage, especially in our area. And the rest of the group of ladies, all were fairly mean and derogatory.
The person I was speaking with was the youngest in the group, so I am hoping I reached her, but I’m wondering what I SHOULD have said. At some point, I decided just to shut up, because they weren’t being empathetic or kind, but it upset me. It was a very frustrating conversation and I’m extremely disappointed in the participants for being so close-minded. I don’t want to quit my class, but I don’t want to get close with people like that either. And at least two of them were politically liberal, which threw me for a loop, as well. What would you suggest?
