Being a Support System
How can I be supportive of transgender family members, friends, or significant others?
My Sisters’ Place (MSP) is a safe, welcoming and inclusive centre that supports women through drop-in and wrap-around services. Many experience multiple vulnerabilities including gender based violence, trauma, chronic mental illness, homelessness, addictions and poverty. Each month more than 100 women access basic needs items thanks to the generosity of our friends and supporters. My Sisters’ Place gratefully accepts in-kind donations of the following items. You can drop off donations during our open hours (Weekdays 10 am-3 pm and weekends 11-2 pm) at 566 Dundas St., London, Ontario. Wish List: Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash, Deodorant, Socks, Underwear (XS S M L), $10 grocery store gift cards, $5 Tim Hortons gift cards, Bus tickets For more information go to https://cmhamiddlesex.ca/about-cmha/msp/ Educate yourself about transgender issues by reading books, attending conferences, and consulting with transgender experts. Be aware of your attitudes concerning people with gender-nonconforming appearance or behavior. Know that there is not one universal way to look or be transgender. Use names and pronouns that are appropriate to the person’s gender presentation and identity; if in doubt, ask. Don’t make assumptions about transgender people’s sexual orientation, desire for hormonal or medical treatment, or other aspects of their identity or transition plans. Don’t confuse gender nonconformity with being transgender. Not all people who appear androgynous or gender nonconforming identifyas transgender or desiregender affirmation treatment. Keep the lines of communication open with the transgender person in your life. Get support in processing your own reactions. It can take some time to adjust to seeing someone you know well transitioning. Having someone close to you transition will be an adjustment and can be challenging, especially for partners, parents, and children. Seek support in dealing with your feelings. You are not alone. Mental health professionals and support groups for family, friends, and significant others of transgender people can be useful resources. Advocate for transgender rights, including social and economic justice and appropriate psychological care. Familiarize yourself with the local and provincial laws that protect transgender people from discrimination. My Sisters’ Place
a place of safety • a community of support
PRIDE Villager
Page 11 Issue 3 • Fall 2019
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