As a community, we have much to celebrate. Whether it is for our recent wins on marriage equality, increasing our political representation nationally or the changing tide in public opinion, the LGBT community has made remarkable progress. But today gives me pause. November 20th is the Transgender Day of Remembrance, a solemn moment where we recognize all those who have suffered, and died, due to anti-transgender hostility and violence.
California remains committed to protecting our basic civil rights. In recent years, the state has extended anti-discrimination policies in housing and employment, while Congress has stalled in passing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). The state has expanded anti-bullying laws to protect our students in school. California also allows transgender individuals the ability to amend their birth certificates to fully reflect their gender identity. But we must continue to press for change.
Transgender people are over one and half times more likely to sustain injuries according to a 2012 report by the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs. News reports reinforce this fact as they continue to cover the steady stream of violence perpetuated against our community. These acts are as senseless as they are inexcusable. No one should be harassed or physically harmed due to one’s gender identity or expression. Self-determination is a trait so fundamental to who we are as a country and such hate and prejudice have no room in our society today. These are values I certainly do neither share nor condone.
To my transgender brothers and sisters: We have not forgotten you, as your plight is our plight. We will continue to stand with you.
Assemblymember Rich Gordon is a resident of Menlo Park who represents California's 21st district. If election day numbers hold, he will transition into representing the newly created 24th district, which will encompasses North Fair Oaks, Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley, Woodside, East Palo Alto, Palo Alto, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, and the San Mateo County Coastside, from El Granada to the county line.
Also on Menlo Park- Atherton Patch:
Elections Office Updates Election Day Vote Totals
Political Action Committee Raises Funds @ Menlo Park Post Office
Stanford Professor Hits Election Night Bull's-eye
High-Speed Rail Association Names New Chair
