Support Or Activist?

[Guest jamiejcmo]

Ok here goes, When I read the other forums here that are for the less experienced "trans" people it breaks my heart. People that are trying to figure out if they are trans or the people who realize they are and do not know how to get started on their journey. I remember those days many years ago and want to help people get pointed in the right direction so they do not have to endure all the years of suffering that I did.

Locally I attend PFLAG, local LGBT, and PROMO groups just trying to get info out to the people who don't know which way to turn.There are many locally who are afraid to ask because they do not want anyone to know who they are. Since I am "out 100%" I try to help by word of mouth thru my local blog so they do not have to physically see someone. I have also done presentations at local universities about being "trans". I was asked if I wanted to attend a "meet the legislature" day in our Capital in a couple of weeks. They are trying to get the State to pass a "non-discrimination bill" to protect LGBT's. I think it is a good thing to try and convince to lawmakers on a one-to-one basis to pass such a bill but I do not want to be seen as a radical activist since I work for the people at the Capital.

So am I an activist or a supporter to the "trans" people in this ultra conservative area I live in?

I just want to help!!!!

[Guest JackieP]

I , personally think you fall into both categories as I would .....

I'm not a radical person , but stand up for what I believe in - even if I wasn't a transsexual , I truly believe in "Live + Let Live" and will argue that until day I DIE!

huggs to all,

Jackie

[Paula ult]

Jamie, i too think you are both, as am i, you are not a radical activist, as in protesting and making speeches on a courthouse steps etc. Being over 1-1/2 years full time i too mentor new people just starting out at my local group, in this day and age there is no reason for someone just starting out to have to re-invent the wheel, so to speak, hopefully we can make their journey easier than ours and educate others along the way.

Paula

[JJ]

It's kind of sad that activism now has a somewhat negative connotation sometimes. Activism is how our system works and changes. It's how we help others.

So yes, I think you are an activist. And I admire you for it.

Hugs

John

[Guest BeckyTG]

Activists make things happen. Supporters cheer things that have happened...

I believe it's up to all of us to be role models and educate society about our condition. You don't have to get arrested and then get released by a radical Priest in order to make a difference in our society.

You go, Girl.

Becky

[Guest April63]

A supporter of an idea does not see any problem with the idea, and is willing to help others with that idea on a personal level. An activist takes it to the next level by trying to influence change and help others in other places. An activist is always a supporter, as many activists start as supporters. So if you were to speak with the government, that would put you in the activist category. The term "radical" is used to represent great changes, typically in the wrong direction.

[Guest Michele H]

I think it is a good thing to try and convince to lawmakers on a one-to-one basis to pass such a bill but I do not want to be seen as a radical activist since I work for the people at the Capital.

So am I an activist or a supporter to the "trans" people in this ultra conservative area I live in?

I just want to help!!!!

Radical and activist are NOT synonymous. Radical activism is not my style but I am still an advocate AND a supporter as you are.