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I read a post today, from someone in the community, that used a very broad brush to condemn anyone who chooses to serve in the military of any nation. It annoyed me greatly, as I felt it was no better than the arguments used against trans people by means of 1/
I read a post today, from someone in the community, that used a very broad brush to condemn anyone who chooses to serve in the military of any nation. It annoyed me greatly, as I felt it was no better than the arguments used against trans people by means of 1/
generalizations and stereotypes. It assumed that by serving in the military, we have no agency, no ability to effect change. This is the opposite of my experience, so I will lay out, first of all, my own gender transition as an active duty Royal Canadian Navy officer. 2/
By the end of December 2018, I had posted on Facebook to let everybody know that I was transgender and that I had transitioned to Meghan. I was hoping for the best, but preparing for the worst. I neednât have worried, as once again I was reminded why 3/
the Canadian Armed Forces, and the Royal Canadian Navy in particular, is a tremendously progressive organization that reflects credit upon our Canadian society.
Everyone who took the time to respond - and many more did than I dared hope - sent messages of 4/
Everyone who took the time to respond - and many more did than I dared hope - sent messages of 4/
love, acceptance, and appreciation. It was all quite overwhelming, but I was so happy to see all my colleagues, friends, and family members reaching out to affirm the necessity of my decision. Iâll forever be grateful for their love. 5/
I returned to work in January 2019 as myself, Meghan Jane. I learned later that my boss, a navy Commander, had been in discussions with the Chief of Staff, Deputy Commander, and Commander of the Naval Reserve (where I currently work, although I& #39;m with the regular Navy) about 6/
my situation and any accommodations that might have to be made. From my perspective I didnât need any special treatment, but to know that the senior staff where I worked were foursquare behind me was heartening, to say the least. 7/
When it came down to the crunch regarding inclusivity and compassion, they lived up to all of our military ethics.
Upon my return, everyone treated me the same. I had to deal with the base clothing section to be fitted for and issued with my new uniform 8/
Upon my return, everyone treated me the same. I had to deal with the base clothing section to be fitted for and issued with my new uniform 8/
and they were absolutely fantastic to me. They were sensitive and professional, and I had no qualms about being measured, fitted, and tailored. The staff in our administration section were outstanding about making sure all the various military HR databases were 9/
appropriately updated to reflect the changes, and there was one junior naval communicator who went the extra mile in ensuring my email address was changed promptly. 10/
Iâm not gonna lie, though: I dreaded - absolutely dreaded - having to go to the ladies restroom. As time passed, though, I slowly realized that if anyone did care, they certainly didnât make it apparent. We go in, we do our business, we wash our hands, and we leave. 11/
I barely give it a second thought now. And as weird as it sounds, it was tremendously affirming for me when, one day, a female colleague and I walked in together, sat down in abutting stalls, and went pee. 12/
So, it has been nearly two years now, and everyone treats me like the woman I am. I get Maâam at work, I never get misgendered in public, and my overall happiness and confidence is off the charts. 13/
I am part of a small group that started the new Defence Team Pride Network, and I sit on the executive board as the Communications Officer, in addition to my regular duties. We& #39;re about to be officially endorsed as a formal Advisory Group to the 14/
Canadian Armed Forces, and we have already commenced influencing policy and decisions regarding LGBTQ+ members, both military and civilian. This type of inclusivity works and pays dividends. I understand that, right now, it does matter where you live, and what kinds of 15/
