[news] Transsexual Pride

[sharai]

Hi Friends!!!

As some of you may know there is lively discussion
happening across Canada regarding Transsexual
inclusion in terms of the Transgender umbrella
concept. Some years back in the early 90's the term
Transgender was coined by Charles 'Virginia' Prince, a
self identified heterosexual transvestite male who
desired to adopt the umbrella term of Transgender.

As there was then and is now, considerable debate is
occurring vis-a-vis what this means for the
Transsexual community. Many Transsexual leaders and
especially more so now, are speaking up to announce
that while we accept the Transgender umbrella term for
Political purposes, we nevertheless strongly believe
that the Transsexual identity is being relegated to
the back of the bus. Many of us are posting to list
servs announcing our passion around this issue.

For those that seem to think debate must stop due to
your beliefs that this is divisiveness, let me state
that you re-consider in my opinion and refrain from
attempting to silence those who differ from you.

There is a growing political strategy once again being
led by transsexual leaders to again affirm our place
in this Transgender umbrella movement.

Please be reminded that Historically our movement was
led by Transsexuals who built brides into the gay,
lesbian, medical and allies communities. To disrespect
our historical past serves no purpose.

The fight locally of affirming our Transsexual
identity is being led by transformed and transsexual
women. These individuals include Aiyana Maracle,
Velvet Steel, Kimberly Nixon and Jamie Lee Hamilton.
Of course it is expected that many transformed
transsexual Males are about to announce their support.
They too will join as leaders in this distinct
society.

So in closing, just a reminder when speaking of our
movements please use both terms of Transsexual and
Transgender for identification purposes. To only use
one terminology such as Transgender renders the other
one obsolete.

Many thanks for taking the time to read this. If you
need any further clarification please feel free to
contact any of the above mentioned. Sincerely Jamie
Lee Hamilton