Justice

Politicians, Take Note: Here's How To Be A Trans Ally

February 19th 2015

California state Congressman Mike Honda (D) just made my day with this tweet supporting his trans granddaughter and safer schools. Pay attention, elected officials. This is how to be an ally:

While many trans and gender-variant kids have to wonder whether or not they have the support of their families, Rep. Honda makes it perfectly clear where he stands - and that's fully and lovingly behind his granddaughter's gender identity. 
 
Honda demonstrates an important distinction between saying that you are an ally and actually doing the work. Beside his strong support for his family, Honda is also the founder and chair of the Congressional Anti-Bullying Caucus. Launched in 2012, the legislative body brings together state representatives from across the nation to advocate for bills that work to end bullying in educational settings. Of his work, Honda said in a recent video speech
As both an individual, and as an educator, I hae experienced and witnessed bullying in its many forms. And as the proud jichan, or grandpa, of a transgender grandchild, I hope that my granddaugther can feel safe goin to school without fear of being bullied. I refuse to be a bystander while millions of people are dealing with the effects of bullying on a daily basis.
The representative has been vocal about eradicating school bullying before, imploring the public: "Speak up, share your story, and educate your community about your diversity." It's wonderful to see Honda take action on his own words.
 
As Luke Lindon, an assoc. pastor from Ohio, responded: 

I couldn't agree more, Luke.

Integrity. Honesty. Follow-through. Acceptance. If this could be the yardstick for all of our elected officials, the world would be a better place. 

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