GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Fear is the only true enemy, born of ignorance and the parent of anger and hate.

~Edward Albert, Actor (1951-2006)

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

It is certain, in any case, at ignorance, allied with power, is the most ferocious enemy justice can have.

~James Baldwin, Novelist (1924-1987)

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Where justice is denied, where poverty is enforced, where ignorance prevails, and where any one class is made to feel that society is an organized conspiracy to oppress, rob and degrade them, neither persons nor property will be safe.

~Frederick Douglass, Author (1818-1895)

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

It is certain, in any case, that ignorance, allied with power, is the most ferocious enemy justice can have.


~James Baldwin

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.

~George Bernard Shaw, Dramatist (1856-1950)

Can't Go Back

Many states are considering whether to pass anti-discrimination laws. Iowa and Vermont have passed marriage equality laws. The latter reversed itself regarding protections for transgender people. South Dakota, North Dakota, Illinois, Rhode Island,Connecticut,and Maryland are considering whether to pass marriage equality/anti-discrimination laws.

The one constant in all this is the ignorance of the opponents in regards to the lives of transgender people. We are equated to being perverts who prey on children and women in public bathrooms. Since when was this a bathroom issue? Once again lies and inuendo is being spread to confuse the public. What annoys me is when the opposition says being transgender is a choice.

Over the past few weeks I have mulled over where my journey will lead next. I have some tough decisions to make and they will be made. I have met gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer folks who are struggling with coming out, shame, harassment, bullying, and acceptance. To say that sexual orientation and gender identity is a choice is insulting and demeaning, in my opinion.

The attacks by our opponents are becoming more vicious. One of the decisions I have made is to educate others about what it is to be transgender. I never made the choice to be transgender. It was something that was in-born and no one can tell me not to be who I am.

I am a Christian and the plight of lgbt people has compelled me to study what the bible really says about us. I am convinced that God loves us as we are.

I am happy that progress is being made but I'll be even more happy if those we educate will see us as people who have dreams, talents, creativity and love.

Genevieve