Opportunity

[Guest SilverDragon]

Well, I came out recently (im 15, came out to mother). Of the many things we discussed, one of the more prominent topics was opportunity, specifically in jobs.

My mother was quite adamant that being a transvestite/crossdresser/transsexual made you a "freak for life" and you never would be able to have opportunity in the world. While I would just write her off as bigoted, she raises a point.

I mean no offense to anyone when I say this: there is a chance that, when living the lifestyle he/she chooses, a transsexual may still not be passable as the other gender. Thus, leading to people recognizing said transsexual and branding them as untouchable.

I try to have no illusions. I think that people are better than that. But that won't convince my mom.

I'm not actually trying to prove anything to her (preconceived notions are difficult to combat), but, because she presents a valid point, I wonder on a general basis; do transgender folk have specific trouble finding employment?

Say, I decide to live as a female at some point in my life: What are the chances of employers discriminating against you based upon appearing as a transgender person (not passing as well as you'd like).

Has anyone had any experience with job hunting as a transgender person where employers saw that you were transgender and discriminated? Or didn't?

Preferrably in the white collar zones, as I plan on going to college.

[Guest sarah f]

I have not had that problem as I am not far enough along yet. I do know that there are alot of companies that have trans rights in their human resources policies. They are not alowed to discriminate based on you being trans.

[Guest Donna Jean]

.

.........and, not only what Sarah said, but, you're young and things are changing for us....slowly, yes....but in the right direction!

Many cities, companies and even states have workers protections now that cover trans people.

You go and get your education, Honey.....you'll get the job!

Huggs

Donna Jean

[Guest Gasky]

Let them discriminate against you. It's a court case you'll win pretty Gosh darned quickly.