The term “transgender” refers to anyone who transitions from one gender to another, according to www.transohio.org. It includes anyone whose gender identity differs from their assigned gender at birth.
There is a difference between a gay or lesbian person and a transgender person: The former deals with sexual orientation, which is the emotional and physical attraction to others, while the latter deals with gender identity and expression. Transgender people also have a sexual orientation, which can include heterosexual, gay, lesbian, bisexual or asexual.
Many transgender people face violence, insufficient access to medical and mental health services or lack of inclusive and accessible health insurance, according to the site. One of the biggest issues relates to the lack of legal protections: 81 percent of transgender people in Ohio reported experiencing harassment or mistreatment on the job, 28 percent lost a job, 27 percent were denied a promotion and 46 percent were not hired because they are transgender.
Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization (BRAVO) works to eliminate violence against the LGBTQ community. If anyone in the community experiences theft, vandalism, the burning of the rainbow flag, homo/bi/transphobic comments or threats, call BRAVO at 1-866-86-BRAVO, email report@bravo-ohio.org or visit www.bravo-ohio.org.
