Support group

[Steph.TS]

Yesterday, I went back to the support group, and it was just 5 women (including myself) I felt more able to ask questions and be part of the group, it really helped me and they recommend I setup an appointment with with a Doctor in Edmonton, that is key to transsexuals moving forward, I have been afraid of so many things and the group that is familiar with what the people of Alberta/my local city told me that generally people don't care and that companies can't firing me because I'm trans. earlier this year there was a man named Bill Siksay who tried to get a bill turned into law that gave explicit rights for transgendered people but it didn't go through this had me spooked because I thought we had no rights.

the group pointed out that we do have implicit rights and do win court battles in favor of transgendered people even without the explicit rights, including personal battles. I feel better and look forward to going back.

[Frances]

It is not that the bill did not go through. It was actually approved at all readings and was set to go to a fourth reading and the senate, but parliament was dismantled, we went to elections, and Bill Siksay retired. It will be presented again by another member of the NPD. If you look a the votes on the bill, All NPD, the vast majority of liberals and even quite a few torries were in favour. This bill was specific to trans issues (hate crimes, etc.), but trans people are protected already by the charter of rights of Canada. It is hard to get away with discrimination in this country, even if religious beliefs get in the way. We have a very conservative government and still have federally legalized gay marriage.

Once again, and I am quite serious about this: That you hate yourself for being trans, does not mean that other people do as well. We project needlessly our internalized transphobia on everyone. You will find that most people will accept you, and will understand you need to do this.

[Gina X]

Once again, and I am quite serious about this: That you hate yourself for being trans, does not mean that other people do as well. We project needlessly our internalized transphobia on everyone. You will find that most people will accept you, and will understand your need to do this.

That is a great statement Francis it really impressed me ............

[Aprilrain]

Glad you felt more comfortable Steph.