Last night I was thinking about what Susan Stanton said in this interview. If you follow her line of reasoning about transgender inclusion in the Employment Non Discrimination Act, the city of Largo did the right thing in firing Stanton.
After all, “Most Americans aren’t ready for us yet, transgender people need to be able to prove they’re still viable workers — especially in the mainstream.”
I was always curious why Stanton didn’t sue the city of Largo. If you take her at her word, then it’s totally understandable why they fired her. Maybe she can try and get a job with the Largo city government as a secretary or receptionist and “prove” she’s a viable worker.
3 Comments, Comment or Ping
cpower
It is sad that Marti seems to be so mean spirited in posting here. It starts with acceptance of ourselves that leads to the understanding of others. Those with little tolerance can only expect the same in return. I only wish the best to the Stanton family.
As far as Susan suing the City of Largo, Florida is a ‘right to work’ state, which allows for dismissal of an employee ‘with or without cause’ which covers the City’s decision. I wish it were different, but that is how it is.
I also wish Susan had not been forced into a defensive posture and pressured into commenting on issues, which are still quite new and obviously confusing, to a person going through transition. She is still trying to figure out her new self and her place in this world, much less being called a ‘spokesperson’ for a movement.
That being said, I believe she is entitled to her opinions. However, they are just that, HER opinions, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of all transgendered persons. Marti would do well to refrain from debasing transgender person with phrases such as ‘get a job as a secretary or receptionist’, which only reinforces the stereotypes we are trying so hard to remove from our vocabulary!
Jan 4th, 2008
Marti Abernathey
Mean spirited? Hardly. It’s logical. If you apply what she’s said about us in ENDA to her own situation, the City of Largo was justified in firing her! I’m not debasing anyone…that is Susan Stanton logic. That she’s not a worthy employee because she transitioned.
Jan 5th, 2008
cpower
My apologies if it seemed I was in attack mode! I am just saying that the City of Largo did not even have to come up with a reason, ANY reason, for Susan’s dismissal. That is how the state operates in regards to personnel and workers rights issues.
I was also trying to make the point that statements such as ‘get a job as a secretary or receptionist’ do a disservice to transgender individuals. There is nothing wrong with meaningful and gainful employment, but to put it in the context of gender roles was not very pleasant to read.
I agree with you that much of the Times interview could have been handled better, but again, it is HER opinion and should be taken as such. I do not believe that Susan is a spokesperson for anyone but herself! It is sad that so much attention is/was being paid to Susan’s comments…she spoke for herself, not for you, or for me.
That being said, I hope the discussion continues and that at least there is an opportunity for education and change, regardless how it came about. Have a great day.
Jan 8th, 2008