Profile: Transwoman is Granted Asylum in D.C.

[Carolyn Marie]

I wasn't aware that transfolk can be granted asylum, based on the likelihood of assault or death in their home countries. That is exactly what the concept is all about.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/transgender-immigrant-finds-new-life-protection-in-dc/2011/12/08/gIQAILGjyO_story.html

Carolyn Marie

[Guest again]

I'm glad that she was granted asylum! Unfortunately, if you read the article it is clear that even the reporter thinks that she is a gay male. Not sure of the wording for asylum under U.S. immigration law, but under Canadian law you can get "refugee status" based on sexual orientation but not gender identity......there was a law that was under debate---and a bit of a political hot potato---to give specific protections under all federal laws for transgendered people. However, an election was called and all of the bills that had not been passed in Canadian parliament were then null and void. It was put forth as a private member's bill and the MP is no longer in office, I believe. So, it will now be up to someone else to put the matter before the current government. Here is an article on the ongoing debate in Canada.

http://www.xtra.ca/public/National/C389_passes_but_faces_further_delays-9536.aspx

[Guest Mia J]

I am glad to see this. The U.S. has not had a good track record with this.

Mia