How Do I Deal with a Transgender Person?
- It is extremely important to refer to a TG person by the pronoun appropriate to their presented gender. When in doubt, ask. Never use the word “it” when referring to someone who is transgendered, either in their presence or to others when they are not present. To do so is incredibly insulting and disrespectful.
- Do not “out” someone (tell others that they are TG) without his or her permission. Also, do not assume that everyone knows. Some TG people “pass” very well and the only way someone would know would be if they were told. The decision to tell someone about their gender issues should be left to the TG person themselves.
- Never ask a TG person how he or she has sex or what their genitals look like. That is inappropriate in every situation.
- Do not assume a TG person is straight. Do not assume they are gay, lesbian or bisexual, either.
Modified from an artcle published by the Southern Arizona Gender Alliance (SAGA).
This page last updated Sun 27 Feb 11. Please email us with any problems or comments about this site.