I experienced an incredibly strong emotional response today and I am left trying to really understand the origin of it... sharing it helps me think about it.
I find I really bristle at the old terms MtF (M2F) or FtM (F2M) for trans experiences. Like the term "transsexual," it's quite dated and shows a lack of growth in understanding of gender as we are seeing it today.
Amongst the many things I would like cis people to understand about trans people, and trans women in particular, is that being trans does not immediately equate to having an appreciation or liking for drag.
So, on December 4th, the National Post front page had a story lede that claimed a 16 year old girl transitioned after two quick doctor's appointments and then regretted it.
As a software engineer, and a leader of software engineers, I often think about the user experience. Almost every piece of software I have worked on, or been responsible for, has had a connection to the average consumer. Awareness of the consumer is critical.
I've seen this countless times in my life, I can't even tell you how often any more. It's been a constant presence in my life as far as I can remember: the notion that you can shame men using imagery of them as a women and girls.