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Transgender

(adj)

Transgender (or 'trans' for short) is an adjective that refers to individuals whose gender identity differs from that associated with their sex assigned at birth (Source). 


​It is important to use the term 'transgender' as an adjective rather than a noun (such as 'a transgender') or a verb (such as 'transgendered') which is outdated and considered offensive. Other words to avoid include: 'biologically male/female,' 'born a woman/man,' 'real woman/man,' 'genetically male/female,' etc.

Example: An individual who was assigned male abirth (AMAB), and whose gender identity is woman, might introduce themselves as a trans woman, transgender woman, or simply a woman.




Why it’s important to know this: By having the language to describe transgender identities, we avoid simply categorizing them as ‘other’ or ‘weird,’ and acknowledge these gender identities as a part of the range of human experiences. Additionally, the United States Department of Education, the National Education Association, and the American Federation of Teachers, have all expressed a commitment to safe, supportive, and affirming schools for transgender and nonbinary students and provide guidance to school staff (Sourcesourcesource).

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