The issue of trans exclusion has been brought to our attention by an upcoming event in a room being rented at Simon Fraser University in which participants will apparently speak against trans inclusion. The Department of Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies is profoundly disappointed by those who use the language of feminism to justify exclusion and discrimination on the basis of gender identity or expression. We affirm that trans people are exactly who they say they are. Trans and gender non-binary people experience profound obstacles and challenges, not just at single events but every day – in classrooms, schools, families, organizations, communities, and places of worship. We would like to see all of our communities – in the university and outside of it – prioritize the safety of trans people and work together to build a more egalitarian world.
The Department of Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies will be working in partnership to sponsor an upcoming event that supports and uplifts trans communities. Please stay tuned for more information. In the meantime, for those of you who are able, we suggest lending your time, energy, support, or financial resources to the following organizations:
Media and Arts:
Love Intersections: https://loveintersections.com
School Outreach:
Out In School: https://outinschools.com
BC Safe School Coalition: https://bcsaferschools.com
Business and Industry:
Trans Focus: https://www.transfocus.ca
Medical:
Trans Care BC: http://www.phsa.ca/our-services/programs-services/trans-care-bc
For youth seeking support: