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Okay, one, I know this isn't okay, but I actually appreciate that I read both of the non-trans women in the opening picture from this article- in the New York Times- as trans. There's just something nice about that.
Two, I love that they included a picture of Ms. Suraci pre-transition, all suit and tie, with the subtitle "Gary Suraci, now Genna," as if that were somehow okay. (Hint: "Genna Suraci, previously Gary," would be more okay, but still messed up. A picture of her actually looking like the lady she is would've been nice.)
Three, I wonder whether even NYT writer Tina Kelley knew how cash-fuckin-money this line is: "Michael Locasio, who owns a tattoo parlor in a neighboring town, complained, 'God makes things perfect and people want to screw it all up.'" Awesome.
Four, "Mr. Ruglis would not say whether the principal had undergone sex-change surgery, but said such a procedure would not be covered by the district’s insurance policy." Because I guess that's what's important to tax payers? "Let's just reassure everyone that their money isn't buying this person a body that makes sense to her." (not a real quote.)
Five: military service, marriage, kids, check. Also, somehow including a bit about what she was wearing, right at the beginning of the article: check. Interestingly, the contrast of wife/kids/military with became-a-lady isn't really played up; also interestingly, there's a description of what a non-trans, pretty-superfluous-to-the-article woman is wearing, too. It's almost like Ms Kelley knows what I'm looking for in an article about a trans woman, and is fucking with me. Which is kind of nice.
Six I am in love with the hippie teacher who's all about compassionate living and 'adults are set in their ways, children are sweethearts who are not.' LOVE HER. YAY NEW PALTZ.
And finally? Seven? All snark aside, I love that the article ends with three students, all of whom are like, 'who cares? sometimes people are trans, whatever.' No dissenting voice, no queerphobia for contrast or fairness or whatever. It's nice.
So I guess a thumb and a half up?
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i actually was at GLSEN's gsa summit yesterday and Genna was our guest speaker. her story was amazing and heart breaking and encouraging and moved most of the room to tears.
she was delightful, entertaining, and open to questions from our high school students and others in the room.
what was so amazing was the support she received from her superintendent and others. she said she went to her boss and explained and she said "you know, i understand if you're uncomfortable. and i'm prepared to take time off or resign.." he said to her "you're a valuable employee and we don't want to lose you.. so tell me how i can help make this easiest for you."
it was truly incredible. and with the transgendered day of remembrance coming up, this was a reminder that although it isn't easy for many trans folk to come out and to transition, sometimes we get the support we need. and when ONE person gets that, it has such a positive influence on the community.
by the way, even though they didn't post a picture of her, i will tell you, she's a beautiful, radiant woman, inside and out. :)
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