It’s hard to admit, but the further into transition I get, the less I trust cis people

it’s not born out of entitlement, but from learned experience

I’ve watched self-proclaimed allies deadname, talk over, and make baseless claims against trans people without repercussion

1/

I’ve seen them treat the concept of trans rights like a hashtag, and the rainbow flag in their bio like a fun bit of fashion

I’ve seen these “allies” spread disinformation, representing trans people without ask or consent

I’ve seen them co-opt trans pain for clicks

2/

The irony is that, as a trans woman, I have seen this mostly come from cis women.

It’s like there’s this atmosphere that I should just be glad I’m invited into the tent, but should just stand in the corner and keep quiet

3/

We are not a fucking checkbox to hit to score points in some esoteric woke arms race. We are not a pet to trot out and pat on the head to make you feel better about yourself.

We are not how you “prove” you are a good person.

4/

True intersectional feminism pays mind to the reality of all women. It respects the unique struggles of race, religion, identity, orientation.

It understands that when you put a trans woman into a discussion about assault, you automatically imply predation

5/

You’re not an ally unless you bring that level of understanding to the table. Because we bring a shit-ton of understanding ourselves. We adopt gentility, and respectful distance in regards to aspects of womanhood that do not bodily apply to us.

6/

We understand because we actually had to fucking fight to be at a table where others have saved seating

I’m tired of being quiet and smiling and saying “thank you” for the most minimal effort possible

And until that expectation is removed, there is no intersectionality

7/

I’m not here to make you feel better about yourself. I’m here because I am a human being. I have history, trauma, victories and losses alike. I am an individual, not a hashtag. Not a banner. Not a poster.

I am not your fucking flair.