November is Transgender Awareness Month!
As a Reconciled in Christ (RIC) congregation, we are called to be a place of inclusion, love, and advocacy. November is Transgender Awareness Month, a dedicated time for increasing our awareness and commitment to the transgender community. In this spirit, we aim to foster a deeper understanding and actively show support as allies to transgender people within our church family and beyond.
To help guide us in our journey of allyship, PFLAG has shared some valuable resources that outline simple yet impactful steps we can take. Here are a few ways we can come together as allies:
-
Educate Ourselves and Others: Being a true ally begins with understanding. Learning about the experiences and challenges faced by transgender individuals can help us become more empathetic and knowledgeable supporters. Engaging with resources, books, and articles about gender diversity will deepen our awareness. (Don't forget, our own Mary Ann Horton published her story about transgender equality in coprorate America. Her book is a great place to start!)
-
Use Inclusive Language: Small actions, such as respecting people's chosen names and pronouns, can have a profound impact. In our congregation and in our personal lives, we can commit to using language that acknowledges and affirms gender identity. For guidance on inclusive terms, check out PFLAG's resources on allyship.
-
Advocate for Equality and Safety: Standing up for the rights of transgender people by supporting inclusive policies and practices is essential. As a congregation, we can work to make our spaces welcoming, affirming, and accessible to all people, regardless of their gender identity.
-
Offer Compassionate Support: Sometimes, simply being there and listening is the best support we can provide. We can show compassion and stand in solidarity with our transgender siblings, offering understanding and companionship on their journey.
Let us all take this month as an opportunity to renew our commitment to inclusion and love, aligning with our mission as an RIC congregation. Together, we can be active, loving allies who create a more accepting world for everyone. What is something you will commit to start doing this month? Leave your ideas in the comments.