What is transgenderism?
Transgenderism is a discrepancy between the sex assigned at birth (...) and one's gender identity, or perceived gender
– explains the researcher.
This means that the sex assigned to someone at birth does not necessarily reflect who that person truly is.
Dr Sobańska also points out that it's important to use the correct vocabulary. Today, the correct term is "transgender," not older terms, which can be confusing and imprecise.
Simplifications do the most harm
Many stereotypes still surround transgender people. The belief that it's a choice and a fad is one of the most common ones.
The biggest misunderstandings stem from the attitudes of people who know little about transgenderism. Because of these simplifications, stereotypes and prejudices, they think they know enough
– says Dr Sobańska adding that many people still confuse gender identity with psychosexual orientation, even though they are not the same thing. Being transgender isn't about who someone loves, but about their perceived gender. The researcher points out that since 2022, the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) has described it not as a disorder but as gender incongruity.
There is no single right path.
It's also important to note that not every transgender person follows the same path. Not everyone wants or can decide on medical transition.
Gender transition is primarily a social process and begins with self-definition. What a person does next depends solely on their capabilities and needs
– explains the interviewee.
This means that the lack of hormones, surgery or legal gender recognition does not deny anyone the right to their own gender identity.
Respect begins with language
Using the correct name and pronouns is one of the most fundamental things. This isn't a detail or an exaggeration, but a simple expression of respect that everyone deserves.
This is a foundation of respect for the interlocutor, a person
– underlines Dr Aleksandra Sobańska.
And what if someone doesn't know how to address a given person? It's best to just ask.
There's a practice of asking about pronouns if we don't know
– says the researcher, explaining that there's nothing wrong with that.
Everyday barriers are real
Transgender people face not only stereotypes but also specific difficulties in government offices, healthcare and professional life. Documentation, lengthy procedures, waiting lists for specialists and high costs of services can be problematic. That's why it's crucial for schools, universities and workplaces to create a safe environment. According to Dr Sobańska, training and greater openness to inclusive language can help.
What should we remember about?
Finally, Dr Aleksandra Sobańska leaves us with a simple but important thought:
We should not rely solely on stereotypes and simplifications, regardless of the minority we're talking about. We should open up to other people.
And this is perhaps the most important message for International Transgender Day of Visibility. Less prejudice, more listening, fewer preconceived opinions, more simple human respect. As the researcher reminds us – transgender people are simply people and anyone who isn't transgender or nonbinary will never feel or understand what such people face every day. Each of us is unique, but we all desire the same thing – to be able to be ourselves and live life to the fullest, without limitations.
