As America questions the definition of a Woman, it should also seek to Comprehend transgender people

Ask your dearest female friend the question… “What is a woman?” What did they say? Likely they described something of their own experience, or perhaps they thought of someone else they’ve had exposure to? What do you think of first when someone says the word “woman?” Right now the country itself is grappling with whether or not transgender people should live regulated lives, asking broad, far implicating questions as it tries to understand just how it is possible to even be transgender. However, most people are unaware they simply might not be asking just the right questions. But who does one ask anyway? Any why do we have to rush to a decision?

According to the UCLA School of Law transgender people make up just 0.6% of the population, and yet as of late, are one of the most discussed and politicized subjects both on the news and legislatively: Over 850 different laws regulating transgender and LGBTQ people have been put forth since January 2025. It is obvious we, in the trans community, have some showing up to do. I think most of the divisive issues should be tabled federally, as we gather data by leaving it up to the states. I think one of the most shaping things of my femininity is that I really am not naturally invasive of other people’s space or comfort. If I were cisgender in America today with so little exposure to a trans person or culture, I’d want to see few immediate changes, and more data. Empathy is the way forward as we navigate how to live around one another.

Ask the next person you meet, instead: what kind of woman/man are you? As America discusses whether or not there we should even deign to establish some monolithic image that comes to mind when we think of male, female, masculine, feminine, man or woman; lets not forget the answer lying wait within your neighbor just may surprise you, and help you come to terms with their identity at the same time.

“So Jane, what kind of woman are you?”

I’m hopeful. Somewhere in my future there is a child who this resilient girl will be a superhero to. From pasta made by hand and ancient toys from Zany Brainy, to my collection of VHS’s.I’m a lover and a homemaker. I am a patriot. I’ve worked hard to make sense of this lived experience, and I prefer to nurture over punish.