Before reading this editorial, challenge yourself to list the criteria of a transgender person.
A transgender person isn't necessarily a transvestite, for transvestites don't necessarily feel they were born as the wrong sex, but do choose to dress as such. A transgender person isn't necessarily a transsexual, but do feel they were born as the wrong sex and opt for surgical alteration or choose to dress accordingly. A transvestite or a transsexual can be considered transgender, but some transgender people are neither transvestite nor transsexual.
The general definition of a transgender person is someone who doesn't identify with traditional gender roles. There's your criteria. Hope you scored well.
If you failed with flying colors, though, don't be alarmed. Transgender community groups all across the state are currently working to keep you up to speed on the topic - one we can expect to gain prevalence in coming years. There's one slight problem with their efforts, though. No one knows it's happening.
Sunday was declared International Transgender Awareness Day by TransGender Michigan, a statewide community group. Officials across the state - including right here at MSU - are proudly rhapsodizing on the day's importance, which we've institutionally commended.
But if you wished to celebrate International Transgender Awareness Day in the Lansing area, your contribution was limited to receiving 20 percent off your purchase at some local Schuler Books & Music stores. Schedules list a bounty of events throughout the state through August, but there seems to be little cohesion in their coordination of events. Their message is just, their cause admirable and their intent noble. The organization of International Transgender Awareness Day, however, seems to be responsible for its diminutive effect.
The people most in need of a transgender education - those who flunked the opening quiz - are the ones who will benefit most from a day of awareness. This year, it seems those people were lost on the message. Next year, we'd like to recognize it, but we can't celebrate what isn't presented.
