Originally posted on PhD Balance social media platforms on 11/14/2020.
It's Transgender Awareness Week.
The academy can be difficult for trans folx, as it holds many transphobic values (& people). Many places even have no policies around transitions & may refuse to acknowledge them. Do you know your department's policies?
How can you support your trans colleagues/students?
Ask people's pronouns and don't assume.
Give your pronouns when introducing yourself (and add them to bios)
Respect the name people tell you they use even if it's different then their registration.
Educate Yourself and tackle your transphobia views
Don't EVER ask someone "what they used to be" or "what they have in their pants" (It is extremely common)
If you make a mistake around pronouns/name, say sorry, correct yourself and move on, do not make a big deal about it.
Support them and demand action if they tell you someone is being transphobic towards them or if you see someone being transphobic call them out.