No matter how discouraged I get from the people who are being appointed in this next administration, how discouraged I feel to know that I will no longer have folks who look like me and share in my vision, I am encouraged by what I think that this particular time period and this particular election season will inspire in the next generation and the current generation of freedom fighters.
Janet MockIt is not a womanโs duty to disclose that sheโs trans to every person she meets. This is not safe for a myriad of reasons. We must shift the burden of coming out from trans women, and accusing them of hiding or lying, and focus on why it is unsafe for women to be trans.
Janet MockWhat keeps me going is that quest for just being able to be present and be myself. Not for people, but for me.
Janet MockThis pervasive idea that trans women deserve violence needs to be abolished. Itโs a socially sanctioned practice of blaming the victim. We must begin blaming our culture, which stigmatizes, demeans, and strips trans women of their humanity.
Janet MockAccording to the media, trans women were subject to pain and punch lines. Instead of proclaiming that I was not a plot device to be laughed at, I spent my younger years internalizing and fighting those stereotypes.
Janet MockYour disrespect for me is apparent. You never respected me when I think about it and you never liked me. But Iโm the parent and youโre the child and it is not your job to love me the way I love you. My love for you is unconditional and no matter what you decide in your life I will love you. Doesnโt mean I have to like it, but I will always love you. Love, Dad
Janet Mock