Gender and Identity

Gender and Identity

Gender and identity have been one of the most crucial issue today’s society. Many people are struggling and wondering if they were born in another gender’s body. They struggle with what others may think or who they really are. One’s biological trait plays an important role in aiding in child's physical development. “We think of our bodies as either our own private possessions, over which we exercise complete control, as collections of biological impulses over which we have virtually no control at all”. (Kimmel 277)

It is always good to get the opinion of others when decisions are being made. Struggling with gender identity is not an easy topic for family members. Base on the law for the country,

not many are for the decision because of the negative impact that it will have on the family. It can take a positive or a negative reaction towards the family. A lot of the times, decisions being made can automatically tear the family apart. It causes a break down where arguments could occur because of different opinions. Some people’s final decision with not accepting the changes causes them to be put out or backs being turned on that family member. In their eyes it may seem as if it wrong and they are not in support of it. For some, speaking about it helps to bring all the support needed for that person to overcome whatever the issue is. Talking to someone who can lend a helping hand, brings joy to that person because it allowed the person to be more confident. Feeling the love and support from family members, help to bring them closer to the Savior and recognize who they are. Choices do matter when people are involved. The influences of awareness help in making the outcome a lot better.

It is often said that the decisions we make in life only matters to us. This is not fully correct because our choices not only affect us but others as well. The choices being made whether on a large or small scale can affect someone an its unavoidable. “Though difficult, it is beneficial to consider others’ and think less of oneself”. (Grant 2014). Decisions should be handled in a way where it will be valued based on the influences it has on others. For someone who is struggling with their gender and identity, it can never be easy.

Ricardo whose last name was being withheld is a father of six

and a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. From a very tender age his father saw him and thought that he was different from the rest of children. Ricardo had feelings for the same-sex and became uncomfortable because he was not able to relate to anyone. He later on met a coworker who became his friend because they both had the same struggles. Expressing themselves to each other provided a gateway for him in becoming more comfortable in being around others. Ricardo realizes that his experiences allowed him to follow the Savior while being a blessing to others. “I can say that throughout my life, I always felt that I needed to stay close to the Lord as best I could”. (Ricardo) .Being able to expresses who he really was, allowed him to move towards the light.

There are changes in the laws especially about gender and identity. Many people are led to believe that biologically, it is alright to change who they were later on in life. Gender identity can be a bit hectic and some people tend to be using their own definitions as they gain a better understanding of their identity. Many people are living in fear as the believe they are prone to predator and will use the opportunity from the new law to gain access to women and children .

Sexual predators have used the opportunity given them by these new laws to gain access to women and children. In several situations, men have entered the restroom of the opposite sex with the intention to expose themselves or commit sexual assault to both women and children. Some went as far as to take photographs. There are many people who live in fear because they feel as if their lives are at risk. “In May 2016, the U.S. Departments of Education and Justice issued a guidance letter to every public school and college. The letter said “that federal law requires them to allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms ‘consistent with their gender identity. So, boys who believe they are girls must be able to compete on girls’ teams and use girls’ facilities ― and vice versa.” (Johnston n.d). For some they see it as the norm for to change who they are because it makes them comfortable. Some family and friends support the changes that are made while others are living in disgust. It may not always be something that we like but giving support to an individual does go a very far away.

Citations

Grant, Annie. Our personal choices affect more than ourselves, 20 Oct. 2014, www.technicianonline.com/opinion/article_814fec46-58cc-11e4-bf72-0017a43b2370.html. Accessed 10 Oct. 2018.

Johnston, Jeff. "Do 'Gender Identity' Laws Affect Me and My Family?." , www.focusonthefamily.com/socialissues/family/public-restrooms-your-privacy-and-safety/do-gender-identity-laws-affect-me-and-my-family. Accessed 10 Oct. 2018.

Kimmel, Michael S. The Gendered Society. third ed., Oxford University Press, Inc, 2008.

Ricardo's Story. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znOQGHGMdYI&t=44s. Accessed 11 Oct. 2018.