A Trans Person’s Guide to Doing Transphobia Really Well
Author's Note: Please be aware that the following content is intended for satirical purposes only. Any resemblance to actual opinions or beliefs is purely coincidental. Enjoy and feel free to provide feedback in the comments below.
One of the more interesting side-effects of doing the work that I do is that I get a marvellous insight into the ways in which, if I wanted to be, I could be very effectively transphobic.
Now, as a non-binary person, you don’t have to point out the obvious own goal in this accidental skill set. However, I think it’s rather interesting to explore how language and behaviour in their subtle forms can contribute to a culture of harm for trans and non-binary people. So, this is my how-to guide if you’re on a journey to better develop a more insidious and villainous transphobic outlook on life. Whilst not super useful for me, who am I to withhold such insight from others? Perhaps it may better serve as a reminder about how transphobia can show up in your world . . . Consider it a cautionary tale or, at the very least, a reminder of what not to do if you want to be friends with trans folk.
1. Embrace Simplistic Views of Sex and Gender
Accept no nuance! Sex is biological and is the primary differentiator of gender identity – what you cover your body in or do to it will never change the fact that the chromosomes you have, are the chromosomes you have. Even if you’re not even really sure what they are. There is a clear distinction between sexes and this is especially important when you’re having a wee or chasing a ball round a field.
2. Maintain a Healthy Dose of Skepticism Towards Gender Non-Conformity
Dismiss gender non-conforming individuals as mere passing phases or deviations. Tomboys will surely grow out of it, and certain pastimes are simply not appropriate for certain genders. Some hobbies just make me feel uncomfortable when being done by the wrong sex. Women playing rugby? Gross. Men knitting? GROSSER.
3. Discourage Authenticity in Favour of Conformity
Being yourself is overrated – what we really want is for people to fit in. That’s how society works! If we were all different and didn’t reinforce each other’s worldviews then capitalism, patriarchy and white supremacy might collapse. Then what would we do? Why be yourself when you can seamlessly blend in with the crowd?
4. Prioritise Your Comfort Above All Else
When it comes to respecting pronouns and identities, always prioritise your own comfort. Who cares about making others feel accepted and valued? Your comfort is paramount, regardless of its impact on those around you.
5. Pathologise Gender Non-Conformity
Equating gender non-conformity with mental illness is a surefire way to maximise the stigma that trans people face. Like homosexuals, trans people aren’t always happy so it’s obviously not a great life-choice. It’s also something that often comes with higher levels of depression and anxiety. This is entirely to do with the act of being trans and not how trans and non-binary people are made to feel by society.
6. Offer Unsolicited Opinions on Others' Identities
They need to be reminded that its weird to be different, especially if it challenges your own perception of yourself. Particularly if you’ve had to compromise so much of yourself to play man or woman to the standards you’ve been set. If you must suffer, so must they (I mean he or she)!
Just call me if you want to be less good at transphobia, ok?