16-09-2014, 12:40 PM
I'm going to have a dissenting opinion here. First, I think it's rather divisive to try to pit the struggles of homosexuals against the transgender community. As as much gays have become accepted in society, I think it's worth mentioning that at least in the US over 50% of the states still have a ban on gay marriage.
Second, I'm rather skeptical of whenever the lack of political correctness in language is being used as the primary example of discrimination against a particular group of individuals. The way I see it, legal discrimination and physical violence are far more sobering cases of abuse than words that insensitive jerks or ignorant individuals may use. Most sensible and respectful individuals who use insensitive language I think fall in the latter group and are amenable to changing their language to a certain extent. When dealing with the former group, I think it's more practical to have thick skin and show them that being transgender is a source of strength and pride for you. As much as any of us would like to put an end to hateful speech, I think the importance of having the freedom of speech in public discourse takes precedent. To quote Ron Paul, "We don't have freedom of speech to talk about the weather. We have the first amendment so we can say very controversial things."
Second, I'm rather skeptical of whenever the lack of political correctness in language is being used as the primary example of discrimination against a particular group of individuals. The way I see it, legal discrimination and physical violence are far more sobering cases of abuse than words that insensitive jerks or ignorant individuals may use. Most sensible and respectful individuals who use insensitive language I think fall in the latter group and are amenable to changing their language to a certain extent. When dealing with the former group, I think it's more practical to have thick skin and show them that being transgender is a source of strength and pride for you. As much as any of us would like to put an end to hateful speech, I think the importance of having the freedom of speech in public discourse takes precedent. To quote Ron Paul, "We don't have freedom of speech to talk about the weather. We have the first amendment so we can say very controversial things."