Genderplayful Marketplace

An Update on Genderplayful

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 13:50:07 -0400

Hey everyone! We just sent out the following newsletter, and we thought you should read it, too…

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dear wonderful (and frankly gorgeous) Genderplayful community,

Hello! I’m Freiya, and I’ve been working closely with Sarah Dopp on the management and direction of Genderplayful. I’m emailing you today to give you an update about Genderplayful.com.

We have good news, and bad news. As you’re probably aware, Genderplayful as it stands now isn’t really going in the direction we originally intended. We have some wonderful sellers, and a great site, but it’s unfortunately not managing to sustain and support itself financially, and e-commerce technical challenges have slowed us way down. It’s with that in mind that we’ve reached the decision to stop actually selling things on the site. It’s a big decision, and one we’ve thought long and hard about, but it seems the only reasonable option at the moment.

However (and this is the good news), the site isn’t going away, but rather changing tack. We’ve decided that instead of selling things ourselves, we’ll focus on being a hub of information where you, our wonderful community, can figure out how to approach your fabulous, genderplayful shopping — whether that happens elsewhere on the web, or in that store you love downtown.

We aim to stay community-based — with the same core principles of providing a safe inclusive space for everyone, where you can get involved, make recommendations, read blog posts submitted both by our staff and yourselves, and much much more — as we start rebuilding the site.

In order to do all this new exciting stuff, we’re going to take our site down for awhile. We need to simplify our technical stuff so we have a clean and strong foundation moving forward. Hopefully the transition won’t take long, and we’ll keep you updated so that you know when it’s back up in its new shiny state.

In the meantime we’re gathering some community content and feedback to get us ready for our next kick-off. Maybe you can help?

» Just go here and answer a few questions «

Thank you for being so generous, and so patient with us. Without you all and your amazing support, none of this would be possible. Even though the original plan isn’t working out, we promise we’ll give you something equally amazing and useful with this new re-imagining of that plan.

~ Freiya

masstpc: From the National Center for Transgender...

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 14:59:42 -0500

masstpc:

From the National Center for Transgender Equality:

Save the LGBT-inclusive Violence Against Women Act by calling your senators now. The Senate may take up the bill in the coming days.

And the programs covered in VAWA are so crucial for trans people—nearly a fifth of trans people have faced domestic violence from their families because they are trans or gender non-conforming.

Call your Senator now and let them know how important these programs are for all survivors of violence.

Learn more here: http://wapo.st/14S1qPs

Signal boostin’!

MTPC Call to Action: Equal Access Bill 2/1 DEADLINE

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 14:11:33 -0500

transawareness:

justabitradical:

masstpc:

Demand equal access to public accomodations for transgender people in MA!

The cosponsorship deadline for the Equal Access Bill is February 1. So now‭ ‬is the time‭ ‬to make your voice heard‭!‬ Contact your state senators and representatives‭ ‬TODAY‭ ‬and ask them to support the bill.

In November‭ ‬2011,‭ ‬Massachusetts became the‭ ‬16th state to add non-discrimination laws for gender identity in the areas of employment,‭ ‬housing,‭ ‬K-12‭ ‬public education,‭ ‬and credit.‭ ‬Additionally,‭ ‬Massachusetts Hate Crimes laws were also updated to include gender identity.‭ ‬This law is known as the Act Relative to Gender Identity.

This new‭ ‬law did not‭ ‬include protections in public accommodations,‭ ‬though.‭ ‬Public accommodations‭ ‬include‭ ‬banks,‭ ‬gas stations,‭ ‬beauty salons,‭ ‬doctors‭’ ‬offices,‭ ‬court rooms,‭ ‬hotels,‭ ‬restaurants,‭ ‬shopping centers,‭ ‬theaters,‭ ‬sports arenas,‭ ‬museums,‭ ‬libraries,‭ ‬zoos,‭ ‬beaches,‭ ‬public transit,‭ ‬airports,‭ ‬public streets,‭ ‬sidewalks,‭ ‬and many other places open to the public.

Here’s what‭ ‬YOU can do to ensure all transgender people in Massachusetts have‭ ‬equal rights to‭ ‬use‭ ‬public spaces‭ ‬free of any discrimination.‭

1) Locate your‭ ‬state officials.

‭ 2) ‬Ask for your‭ ‬State‭ ‬Representative or Senator by name.‭ ‬Usually you end up speaking with a legislative aide.‭ ‬Introduce yourself as a constituent.‭ ‬Give your name and town.‭ ‬Tell them that passing the‭ ‬Equal Access‭ ‬Bill is VERY important to you.‭ ‬If they need more information,‭ ‬tell them the bill has been filed as‭ ‬House Docket‭ ‬#1172‭ ‬and‭ ‬Senate Docket‭ ‬#568.‭

The Equal Access Bill would add‭ “‬gender identity‭” ‬to existing Massachusetts civil rights law for public accommodations,‭ ‬which currently prohibits discrimination on the basis of age,‭ ‬race,‭ ‬creed,‭ ‬color,‭ ‬national origin,‭ ‬sexual orientation,‭ ‬sex and marital status.‭ ‬Nationwide,‭ ‬15‭ ‬states,‭ ‬the District of Columbia and‭ ‬187‭ ‬cities and counties‭ (‬including Boston,‭ ‬Cambridge,‭ ‬Amherst and Northampton‭) ‬have passed non-discrimination laws or ordinances protecting people on this basis.

If you would like to follow a detailed script when calling,‭ ‬you can‭ ‬find that here.

3‭) ‬Fill out our Report Results form to let us know how it went.

Another way that you can help is to talk up‭ ‬#MAtransbill online.‭

We’d love for you to post to Facebook,‭ ‬Twitter,‭ ‬Tumblr,‭ ‬etc.,‭ ‬about why you are supporting the Equal Access Bill today.‭ ‬Why are public accommodations protections important to you‭? ‬Use the hashtag‭ ‬#MAtransbill,‭ ‬and add‭ ‬#TransMA and‭ ‬#MApoli if there’s room.‭ Here’s a sample tweet:

Stop discrimination in MA public accommodations based on gender-identity/expression. Call sens/reps 1/31! http://www.masstpc.org/take-action/contact-elected #MAtransbill

If you’d like more information,‭ ‬please check out these resources:

‭* ‬2013‭ ‬Equal Access in Public Accommodations Legislative Brief‭ ‬(PDF‭)

* What Are Public Accommodations‭?‬ (PDF‭)

* Consequences of Not Having Equal Access Protections in Public Accommodations‭ ‬(PDF‭)

Twitter’s down right now, but let’s see what we can do to continue getting the word out! New Englanders, this means you!

Let’s see if we can get some momentum going for this. Equal access to public spaces matters for all people!

Signal boost!

Think Transgender People Don't Need Equal Access to Public Accommodations? Think Again.

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 15:40:15 -0500

masstpc:

Are you wondering why Massachusetts needs to pass an Act Relative to Equal Access in Hospitals, Public Transportation, Nursing Homes, Supermarkets, Retail Establishments, and all other places open to the public? Below are just a few of the consequences of transgender people not having equal access to public spaces.

Imagine trying to get a drink with friends and being refused service based on your gender identity or expression. This is a harsh reality transgender residents of Massachusetts face daily. In 2010 in Peabody, a group of trans women were attempting to meet for a social function at a local restaurant. They were refused services because their licenses did not “match their appearances.” When the women challenged this, the establishment’s management told them their entrance denail was “due to the length of their skirts.” After filing an unsuccessful mediation with the Peabody Licensing Board, the women took their case to the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination and ultimately won their case.

Being refused service at a restaurant is frustrating, embarassing, and hurtful. Being outed in front of others could even lead to physical danger. And it gets worse. Public accommodations also include places like doctor’s offices, emergency rooms, urgent care facilities, nursing homes, and more. Whether it be a routine primary care appointment or admission to an emergency room, transgender individuals can still be turned away under current Mass. law, all because the doctor or attending nurse on duty “Doesn’t treat people like you” or thinks your case is “A separate thing” to be addressed by mental health professionals instead of a clinician.

This was the case for MTPC steering committee member Mycroft Masada Holmes. During a medical appointment in Boston, Mycroft came out as transgender while discussing medical needs and history. The doctor became visibly uncomfortable. “She really was not pleased and just more and more seemed to want to end the interview,” said Mycroft. Without the Equal Access Bill, transgender individuals in Massachusetts will continue to face situations like this.

But don’t take it secondhand from us, hear it straight from Dagen, a Massachusetts resident who is currently affected by the lack of equal access to public accommodations. For Dagen, many of the problems he has faced in finding a primary care physician have been based in ignorance more than cruelty or blatant discrimination. He had to approach more than 30 doctors before finding one he felt could deal with a trans patient. And, even so, he had trouble scheduling a pap smear. Hear it in his own words.

Once public accommodations protections are in place, health care providers should receive instructions about how to implement the law, including best practices recommendations. This information will teach them about what being transgender is and how to provide good and compassionate care.

Check out our Call to Action for easy instructions on how to find your state legislators and what to say to them. February 1 is the deadline for Mass. senators and representatives to sign on as cosponsors of the Equal Access Bill. Please call your legislators NOW and ask them to commit to cosponsorship.

Another way that you can help is to talk up #MAtransbill online. Here’s a sample tweet:

Stop discrimination in MA public accommodations based on gender-identity/expression. Call sens/reps 1/31! http://www.masstpc.org/take-action/contact-elected #MAtransbill

If you’d like more information, please check out these resources:

‭2013‭ ‬Equal Access in Public Accommodations Legislative Brief‭ ‬(PDF‭)

What Are Public Accommodations‭?‬ (PDF‭)

Consequences of Not Having Equal Access Protections in Public Accommodations‭ ‬(PDF‭)

Thank you for your support!

In the News: Hurtful Question about How to Handle Aunt Being Transgender

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 17:06:46 -0500

transawareness:

masstpc:

http://www.boston.com/community/moms/blogs/child_caring/2013/01/when_a_relative.html

A reader asks parenting blogger Barbara Meltz how to deal with telling her 8- and 12-year-old children that their aunt is transgender if they ask. In the letter-writer’s (very hurtful words):

My brother is married to a transgendered individual. “B” lives as a woman but is still, biologically/physically, a man. When people meet her, it’s often obvious to them that she is really a man. “B” has been with my brother for over 15 years now and both my daughters call her “aunt” and do not realize she is a man.

My oldest is 12 and my youngest is 8. I do not want to keep secrets from them … do I raise the transgendered issue? Do I wait for them to ask? They’re going to ask some day, I know and I don’t want them to feel like this is a deep dark secret (though my brother and his spouse do not discuss the issue — ever).

Click the link to see Meltz’s answer and other readers’ responses. Perhaps you want to weigh in with your own advice.

Our answer, also posted at that page, is:

The previous commenters have made some excellent points. What needs to be addressed here, obviously, is this letter writer’s attitude toward her sister-in-law. Of course parents must put their own children’s needs before those of other adult people. But the assumptions about what those needs might be in the future and how to handle the personal details of someone else’s life are very skewed. We hope that the letter writer will do some self-educating about transgender issues before trying to teach her children about this topic.

To begin, why is it assumed that the aunt’s being transgender is a secret that needs to be kept or revealed, as though it’s the most pertinent piece of information that everyone must know about her, whether she wants to share it or not? We don’t expect people to disclose other information such as being an ex-Catholic, an ex-smoker, an ex-gymnast, or an ex-army captain. Also, the preferred term is “transgender” not “transgendered,” like “smart” or “tall” instead of “smarted” or “talled.”

Deciding whether someone is a woman based on the presence or absence or appearance of a couple of body parts is reductive. And it’s antifeminist to try to take away a woman’s agency in declaring what she is or isn’t. We really should be, as a society, past the point where a group of people get to determine for someone else what her relationship should be with her own body, how she can dress, and how she can interact with the world. Do we all want to go back to a time when women weren’t allowed to have short hair or powerful jobs or wear pants?

Also, the letter writer is assuming that the children will ask questions about their aunt because the letter writer herself does not think of the aunt as a woman, even though so far the children have never treated the aunt as anyone but their aunt. If everyone in the family just treated this trans woman as the real woman she is, perhaps the children would just grow up thinking that the concept of “woman” is diverse enough to include all the people they meet in life who present and identify themselves women regardless of what sex they were labeled at birth.

But if the children do ask, there is nothing wrong with that. And it’s a great opportunity for the letter writer to be a great parent and to explain that there is no set of rules for being a woman (or for being a man), that women act and look in a wide variety of ways, and that how to treat someone shouldn’t depend on that person’s gender (or race or economic status or religion or physical ability, etc.). Most important, the letter writer can teach her children that all people are to be treated with respect and kindness.

Perhaps in advance of these types of questions, the letter writer could begin teaching her children about the various ways in which people within their community and across the world are diverse in so many wonderful ways and how no single characteristic determines the whole of who someone is. Those are always good lessons to teach children, even ones who don’t (knowingly) have diversity within their families.

As this state’s only organization led by and for transgender youth, adults, and our families, we at the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition know all too well the discrimination transgender people face from both family members and the public. By becoming better informed about gender identity, the letter writer and this blogger, Barbara F. Meltz, can help change that for these children’s aunt.

We are including a few links and book recommendations here that the letter writer and others may find useful in understanding transgender issues.

Transgender 101: masstpc.org/media-center/transgender-101

I AM: Transgender People Speak video project: transpeoplespeak.org

A documentary about Uncle Bill becoming a woman: nodumbquestions.com

Luna by Julie Ann Peters – a young-adult novel about a transgender teen

10,000 Dresses by Marcus Ewert and illustrated by Rex Ray – a picture book about a transgender child

Transitions of the Heart: Stories of Love, Struggle and Acceptance by Mothers of Transgender and Gender Variant Children edited by Rachel Pepper

True Selves: Understanding Transsexualism—For Families, Friends, Coworkers, and Helping Professionals by Mildred L. Brown and Chloe Ann Rounsley

How would you respond to this? Something to think about!

How do you handle your family’s reaction to your gender identity, fashion choices, or gender expression?

Public Accommodations: They’re More Than Just Restrooms!

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 23:24:00 -0500

masstpc:

Did you know that transgender people have no legal protections against discrimination in places of public accommodation in Massachusetts? We can fix this problem by passing the Equal Access Bill.

A “public accommodation” is any establishment, public or private, that is open to the general public and that provides, or endeavors to provide, some type of goods and/or services to the general public. The Massachusetts Public Accommodation Law (M.G.L. c. 272, s. 92A, 98 and 98A) defines a place of public accommodation as “any place, whether licensed or unlicensed, which is open to and accepts or solicits the patronage of the general public.”

Why is passing the Equal Access Bill important? Check out these places where trans people can still be discriminated against in Massachusetts. The list may surprise you.

• Hotels, motels, campsites, and other places of lodging

• Restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and other establishments serving food or drink

• Retail establishments, including stores, shopping centers, car rental agencies, and other retail establishments

• Theaters, concert halls, sports arenas and stadiums, and other places of entertainment

• Convention centers, lecture halls, and other places of public gathering

• Museums, libraries, galleries, and other places of public display or collection

• Parks, zoos, amusement parks, beaches, and other places of recreation

• Public transit and bus stations, train terminals, airports, platforms, and other transportation facilities

• Public streets, highways, sidewalks, boardwalks, and other public ways

• Service establishments, including laundromats, dry cleaners, banks, gas stations, barbershops, beauty salons, travel agents, funeral parlors, and employment agencies

• Providers of professional services such as law offices, accountants, and insurance agents

• Health care facilities, including medical and dental offices, hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, nursing homes, and other health care facilities

• Public spaces and offices of state and local government agencies including, court rooms, hearing rooms, meeting rooms, waiting areas, lobbies, entrances, polling places (where you vote), public information counters and displays

Think it can’t or won’t happen to you or someone you know? Think again. Massachusetts transgender youth and adults routinely experience discrimination and harassment in public accommodations and services.

58% of surveyed transgender people were verbally harassed or disrespected in a place of public accommodationor service, including hotels, restaurants, buses, airports and government agencies.

Imagine what it would be like if you the Basketball Hall of Fame wouldn’t let you in, even with a ticket, because “they don’t serve people like you.”

Imagine being refused admission to Plimoth Plantation because you are transgender.

Imagine a bus driver verbally harassing you and being so openly hostile that you have to get out miles ahead of your stop for fear of your own emotional and physical safety.

Worst of all, imagine being denied admission to an emergency room because they “can’t help people like you.”

How you can help

February 1 is the deadline for Massachusetts senators and representatives to cosponsor the Equal Access Bill. Please call your legislators NOW and ask them to commit to cosponsorship.

Check out our Call to Action for easy instructions on how to find your legislators and what to say to them.

Another way that you can help is to talk up #MAtransbill online.

MTPC Call to Action: Equal Access Bill

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 13:04:35 -0500

masstpc:

Demand equal access to public accomodations for transgender people in MA!

Now‭ ‬is the time‭ ‬to make your voice heard‭!‬ Contact your state senators and representatives‭ ‬BY JANUARY‭ ‬31‭ ‬and ask them to cosponsor the‭ ‬Equal Access Bill.

In November‭ ‬2011,‭ ‬Massachusetts became the‭ ‬16th state to add non-discrimination laws for gender identity in the areas of employment,‭ ‬housing,‭ ‬K-12‭ ‬public education,‭ ‬and credit.‭ ‬Additionally,‭ ‬Massachusetts Hate Crimes laws were also updated to include gender identity.‭ ‬This law is known as the Act Relative to Gender Identity.

This new‭ ‬law did not‭ ‬include protections in public accommodations,‭ ‬though.‭ ‬Public accommodations‭ ‬include‭ ‬banks,‭ ‬gas stations,‭ ‬beauty salons,‭ ‬doctors‭’ ‬offices,‭ ‬court rooms,‭ ‬hotels,‭ ‬restaurants,‭ ‬shopping centers,‭ ‬theaters,‭ ‬sports arenas,‭ ‬museums,‭ ‬libraries,‭ ‬zoos,‭ ‬beaches,‭ ‬public transit,‭ ‬airports,‭ ‬public streets,‭ ‬sidewalks,‭ ‬and many other places open to the public.

Here’s what‭ ‬YOU can do to ensure all transgender people in Massachusetts have‭ ‬equal rights to‭ ‬use‭ ‬public spaces‭ ‬free of any discrimination.‭

1.) Locate your‭ ‬state officials.

‭ 2.) ‬Ask for your‭ ‬State‭ ‬Representative or Senator by name.‭ ‬Usually you end up speaking with a legislative aide.‭ ‬Introduce yourself as a constituent.‭ ‬Give your name and town.‭ ‬Tell them that passing the‭ ‬Equal Access‭ ‬Bill is VERY important to you.‭ ‬If they need more information,‭ ‬tell them the bill has been filed as‭ ‬House Docket‭ ‬#1172‭ ‬and‭ ‬Senate Docket‭ ‬#568.‭

The Equal Access Bill would add‭ “‬gender identity‭” ‬to existing Massachusetts civil rights law for public accommodations,‭ ‬which currently prohibits discrimination on the basis of age,‭ ‬race,‭ ‬creed,‭ ‬color,‭ ‬national origin,‭ ‬sexual orientation,‭ ‬sex and marital status.‭ ‬Nationwide,‭ ‬15‭ ‬states,‭ ‬the District of Columbia and‭ ‬187‭ ‬cities and counties‭ (‬including Boston,‭ ‬Cambridge,‭ ‬Amherst and Northampton‭) ‬have passed non-discrimination laws or ordinances protecting people on this basis.

If you would like to follow a detailed script when calling,‭ ‬you can‭ ‬find that here.

3‭) ‬Fill out our Report Results form to let us know how it went.

Another way that you can help is to talk up‭ ‬#MAtransbill online.‭

We’d love for you to post to Facebook,‭ ‬Twitter,‭ ‬Tumblr,‭ ‬etc.,‭ ‬about why you are supporting the Equal Access Bill today.‭ ‬Why are public accommodations protections important to you‭? ‬Use the hashtag‭ ‬#MAtransbill,‭ ‬and add‭ ‬#TransMA and‭ ‬#MApoli if there’s room.‭

If you’d like more information,‭ ‬please check out these resources:

‭* ‬2013‭ ‬Equal Access in Public Accommodations Legislative Brief‭ ‬(PDF‭)

* What Are Public Accommodations‭?‬ (PDF‭)

* Consequences of Not Having Equal Access Protections in Public Accommodations‭ ‬(PDF‭)

Signal boost for all you MA folks and New Englanders!

I Am: Trans People Speak

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 12:46:38 -0500

masstpc:

To learn about experiences of trans youth, adult, and families, explore the I AM: Trans People Speak videos. MTPC started the I Am Project in 2012 to raise awareness of the diversity among transgender individuals within our communities. The project provides a platform for trans people to speak for ourselves. These positive stories can help combat the negative stereotyping of the trans community in fiction and the news.

MISSION:

I AM: Trans People Speak is a project to raise awareness about the diversity that exists within transgender communities. It gives a voice to transgender individuals, as well as their families, friends, and allies.

“The stories of everyday transgender Americans remain relatively unheard in both national and LGBT media,” said GLAAD President Herndon Graddick. “These stories will not only empower members of the transgender community who rarely see relatable stories, but also educate Americans everywhere about the fact that the community is a valuable part of the fabric of our culture. The campaign will also shine a light on the high level of discrimination that our transgender friends, family and neighbors continue to face in schools, the workplace and in their own communities.”

Together we can make our own media and continue to make a positive change in the representation of transgender people. We do this by focusing on the full individual. Transgender people come from a range of experiences and backgrounds, including age, race, ethnicity, gender expression, and sexual orientation.

This is the space to empower yourself and your community by sharing your own experiences. By coming together as a community and telling our own unique tales about our path through life, we can share common ground, mutual journeys, and even bring our own unique experiences to the forefront to share with others. Creating a positive media representation of transgender individuals begins and ends with us, and it is a powerful feeling to share one’s story with others. We invite you to submit your story and tell us your chapter of transgender history.

GOALS:

This project allows transgender people, family members, friends, and allies to:

Empower themselves through sharing their own stories and speaking for themselves

Be visible by participating in a nation-wide project

Show the diversity of backgrounds and experiences that exist within trans communities

Provide a forum to learn about, connect with, and find support through the stories of other community members

Educate the public about the reality of transgender peoples lives and the unique challenges they face due to pervasive bias, stereotypes, and misunderstanding.

If you would like to share your story, please visit: http://www.transpeoplespeak.org/submit-your-story

Rather than focusing on medical transition and private medical information, we invite you to share your stories about your identity and experience. We invite you to tell us:

How‭ ‬it has been for you accessing housing‭? ‬Accessing education‭?

How has it been interacting with your family and friends‭?‬

How does your race/ethnicity intersect with your trans identity‭?

What activities and hobbies are you interested in‭?

What‭ ‬other‭ ‬communities are you part of‭?

What has been the most difficult part of your trans experience‭? ‬What has been the best part‭?

What do you want the world to know about your story‭?

Whether you’re an every day Clark Kent or you’re actually Superman, we still want to hear from you.

In a world that is often full of discrimination and saddening statistics, offering a hopeful and common voice for those who may be beginning their trans* journey is key. Offering a common tale that may resonate throughout your community, or even with someone across the world is key to creating positive change and creating a world where we are all equal, regardless of gender identity or expression.

This project is centered on the full individual because people are more than their gender. This is a space to empower ourselves and our communities by sharing our own lived experience, and we welcome yours. We look forward to hearing from you!

Transgender 101 with MTPC!

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 13:22:23 -0500

masstpc:

The Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition offers a transgender 101 FAQ for anyone curious about or looking to educate themselves about transgender issues.

This information is available to download as a PDF in download our Media Kit.

Definitions

In the Massachusetts statewide Transgender Equal Rights law, formally known as An Act Relative to Gender Identity, gender identity is defined as:

“Gender identity” shall mean a person’s gender-related identity, appearance or behavior, whether or not that gender-related identity, appearance or behavior is different from that traditionally associated with the person’s physiology or assigned sex at birth. Gender-related identity may be shown by providing evidence including, but not limited to, medical history, care or treatment of the gender-related identity, consistent and uniform assertion of the gender-related identity or any other evidence that the gender-related identity is sincerely held, as part of a person’s core identity; provided however, gender-related identity shall not be asserted for any improper purpose.

A person’s Gender Identity is how someone identifies his/her own gender — a person’s inner sense of “being” male or female. Most people, but not all, have a gender identity of “man” or “woman” that is also consistent with their assigned sex at birth. There are some people who feel their assigned sex at birth is not consistent with their own gender identity.

A person’s Gender Expression refers to how a person expresses their gender identity, or the cues people use to identify another person’s gender. This can include clothing, mannerisms, makeup, behavior, speech patterns, and more. There are some in society whose gender expression does not conform to traditional gender stereotypes what men or women should look or act.

Transgender is an umbrella term for people who transition from one gender to another and/or people who defy social expectations of how they should look, act, or identify based on their birth sex. This can include a range of people including: male-to-female (MTF) or female-to-male (FTM) transsexual people and more generally, anyone whose gender identity or expression differs from conventional expectations of masculinity or femininity. Some transgender people experience their gender identity as incongruent with anatomical sex at birth.

It is important to note that there are many variations of gender identity other than male-to-female or female-to-male that also fall under the transgender umbrella. These include being genderqueer, bigender, non-binary, neutrois, and more. Never assume someone’s gender identity. If you don’t know, educate yourself. Never ask someone outright if they are transgender. Often, many people may be living stealth, or simply choose not to disclose their transgender status. If someone feels right informing you of their gender identity, this is an act done in trust and confidence. Support your transgender community members by treating them with respect.

Gender dysphoria refers to discomfort or distress that is caused by a discrepancy between a person’s gender identity and that person’s sex assigned at birth (and the associated gender role and/or primary and secondary sex characteristics)

(Fisk, 1974; Knudson, De Cuypere, & Bockting, 2010b).

Gender dysphoria can in large part be alleviated through treatment. (Murad et al., 2010) See the 2011 WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) Standards of Care, which is clinical guidance set of standards for health professionals to assist transsexual, transgender, and gender nonconforming people with safe and effective pathways to achieving lasting personal comfort with their gendered selves, in order to maximize their overall health, psychological well-being, and self-fulfillment.

Traditional Gender Stereotypes: Culturally defined code of acceptable behavior for men and women. Men/boys are to exhibit masculine gender presentation, behaviors, and social roles and women/girls are to exhibit feminine gender presentation, behaviors, and social roles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are transgender people the same as gay/lesbian people?

No. Transgender is about gender identity and gender expression whereas gay, lesbian, bisexual, and heterosexual/straight is about sexual orientation, which is emotional and physical attraction to others. While transgender people are sometimes assumed to be gay or lesbian based on stereotypes about gay men and lesbians, the terms are not interchangeable. Transgender people also have a sexual orientation, just as everyone else in society, which can be heterosexual (straight), bisexual, or gay or lesbian.

Can I tell if someone is transgender?

Not always. Many transgender people are seen and accepted as the gender they identify with and live as. There are many transgender people whom no one would know they are transgender or where assigned a different sex at birth, and who choose to keep their personal and medical histories confidential. For some transgender people, they maybe visibly different from what society views as traditional stereotypes for men and/or women and may be easily recognizable as being transgender. There are a number of factors of why a transgender person may be visibly different, such as access to transgender specific medical treatment. Sometimes transgender people are discriminated against or harassed because others suspect them to be transgender or gender non-conforming from their assigned sex at birth. In other situations, transgender people are discriminated against or harassed because someone shares a transgender person’s history inappropriately with others, turning private medical information into gossip. Often, a transgender person’s former gender or name can be made known through their identity documents, work references, credit reports, CORI checks or other background checks as the gender marker or name may not match with their name now or the gender they identity, live, and present as.

Lastly, a transgender person does not have to disclose that they are transgender, just as others have the right to privacy about their identity, their medical status, or other information that is not pertinent in a given situation.

What is gender transition?

Gender transition is a personal process in which a transgender/transsexual person goes through when they begin to live and identify as the gender they see themselves as. This process includes a social transition, which can include a person changing their gender expression, such as clothes and hairstyle; pronoun; and possibly their first name, to be reflective of the gender they are transitioning to. This process may also include support from therapist and a medical transition, which can be hormone replacement therapy and/or sex reassignment surgery.

For some transgender people, they may not access medical transition due to the prohibitive cost, access to providers, physical health issues, lack of health insurance coverage, and/or personal choice. The reality is that many transgender people live, present, and are accepted as the gender they see themselves as without medical transition, hormones, and/or sex re-assignment surgery.

Why do transgender people need legal protections?

Transgender people in Massachusetts and around the world face high levels of discrimination and violence because of widespread prejudice and the assumption that transgender people are “outside” of the law’s protections. This bill amends both non-discrimination laws and hates crime laws in order to comprehensively make clear that transgender individuals have equal protection under the law.

The 2009 National Transgender Discrimination Survey found that:

Double the rate of unemployment: Survey respondents experienced unemployment at twice the rate of the general population at the time of the survey, with rates for people of color up to four times the national unemployment rate.

Widespread mistreatment at work: Ninety percent (90%) of those surveyed reported experiencing harassment, mistreatment or discrimination on the job or took actions like hiding who they are to avoid it.

Forty-seven percent (47%) said they had experienced an adverse job outcome, such as being ﬁ red, not hired or denied a promotion because of being transgender or gender non-conforming.

Over one-quarter (26%) reported that they had lost a job due to being transgender or gender non-conforming and 50% were harassed.

Respondents reported various forms of direct housing discrimination — 19% reported having been refused a home or apartment and 11% reported being evicted because of their gender identity/expression.

One-ﬁfth (19%) reported experiencing homelessness at some point in their lives because they were transgender or gender nonconforming; the majority of those trying to access a homeless shelter were harassed by shelter staﬀ or residents (55%), 29% were turned away altogether, and 22% were sexually assaulted by residents or staﬀ.

Fifty-three percent (53%) of respondents reported being verbally harassed or disrespected in a place of public accommodation, including hotels, restaurants, buses, airports and government agencies.

Refusal of care: 19% of our sample reported being refused medical care due to their transgender or gender non-conforming status, with even higher numbers among people of color in the survey.

The baseline rates of discrimination against transgender people have been consistently high. A review of six studies conducted between 1996 and 2006, in cities and regions on both coasts and the Midwest, showed the following ranges for experiences of discrimination based on gender identity:

13%-56% of transgender people had been fired

13%-47% had been denied employment

22%-31% had been harassed, either verbally or physically, in the workplace

Style Guides

ASSOCIATED PRESS (2006)
Transgender: Use the pronoun preferred by the individuals who have acquired the physical characteristics of the opposite sex or present themselves in a way that does not correspond with their sex at birth. If that preference is not expressed, use the pronoun consistent with the way the individuals live publicly.

NEW YORK TIMES (2005)
Transgender (adj.): is an overall term for people whose current identity differs from their sex at birth, whether or not they have changed their biological characteristics. Cite a person’s transgender status only when it is pertinent and its pertinence is clear to the reader. Unless a former name is newsworthy or pertinent, use the name and pronouns (he, his, she, her, hers) preferred by the transgender person. If no preference is known, use the pronouns consistent with the way the subject lives publicly.

1. Badgett, M.V., Lau, Sears, and Ho. Bias in the Workplace: Consistent Evidence of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Discrimination. Los Angeles: The Williams Institute. June 2007.

MTPC’s Resources for Dealing with Discrimination or Hate Crimes

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 13:57:19 -0500

masstpc:

If you have been a victim of discrimination or a hate crime in Massachusetts based on your gender identity or expression, MTPC wants to know. Please report the experience to us.

We have compiled many resources that can help you deal with discrimination you have faced. If you have an issue that is not addressed by the resources below, email us at: info@masstpc.org.

MTPC cannot provide you with legal representation.

Forms and Documents for Reporting Discrimination:

Information on how the MCAD (Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination) process works, links to MCAD offices in Massachusetts, and forms to help you begin filing a complaint with MCAD can be found at:

http://www.masstpc.org/get-help/file-mcad-complaint/

Reporting An Experience to MTPC (whether positive representation of transgender individuals or negative interactions, we want to know!):

http://www.masstpc.org/take-action/report-your-experience/

Statewide Resources

If you believe that you have been the victim of discrimination or a hate crime because of your gender identity or gender expression, the following resources may be helpful (residents of Boston & Cambridge should also use these statewide resources in addition to any more local ones).

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (how to file a complaint)

Massachusetts Public School 2010 Anti-Bullying Law [download pdf]

Gay & Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD) legal information hotline: 1-800-455-GLAD (M-F 1:30p-4:30p)

Fenway Community Health Center’s Violence Recovery Program, The helpline for or anti-LGBT physical and verbal harassment is 1-800-834-3242.

The Civil Rights Division of the Attorney General’s Office enforces Massachusetts laws that protect citizens of the Commonwealth from discrimination.

The Fair Housing Center of Greater Boston: The mission of the FHCGB is to work to eliminate housing discrimination and promote open communities throughout the region. It serves the counties of Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth and Suffolk. For services click here.

Boston and Cambridge

Police

If you experience discrimination from a Boston Police officer, please file a complaint HERE. If you prefer to contact the Internal Affairs Division directly by phone to file a complaint, please call 617-343-4320 (Mon-Fri, 9 am to 5 pm).

This is an issue we at MTPC take very seriously. Please let MTPC know so we can track these complaints.

Public Accommodation, Housing, Credit

If you have been discriminated against because of gender identity/gender expression in public accommodation, housing, or credit, the following may be able to help you file a complaint and obtain compensation or restoration if you have been wrongfully removed from a residence based on your gender identity/expression:

Boston

Mayor’s 24 Hour Help Line: 617-635-4500

Or file by email

Cambridge

Cambridge Human Rights Commission: 617-349-4396, http://www.cambridgema.gov/~HRC/

Hours: 8:30 am to 5 pm; after-hours answering machine in both English and Spanish

As of July 1, 2012 it is illegal in the state of Massachusetts for any employer, housing authority, credit issuer, or public educational institution to deny rights or discriminate against any individual based on their gender identity or expression. If you believe you have been discriminated against in one of these areas, please review the Act Relative to Gender Identity and contact a legal advisor.

Other Resources

Massachusetts State Civil Rights Resources

The Network/La Red: Support for dealing with partner abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault in lesbian, bisexual women’s and transgender communities. 617-423-SAFE (7233) v/tty, info@thenetworklared.org

If you have a local (Massachusetts-based) resource you would like to see added to this list that you feel is of value to the Mass. transgender community, please email us at info@masstpc.org!

Transgender Equal Access to Public Accommodations Action Day!

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 15:08:48 -0500

masstpc:

Action Day at Your Desk

If you missed the Action Day for Trans Equal Access to public accommodations at the State House yesterday, you can take action, right from your desk (or couch). It’s never to late to make your voice heard.

1) Locate your state officials.

2) Ask for your Representative or Senator by name. Usually you end up speaking with a legislative aide. Introduce yourself as a constituent. Give your name and town. Tell them that passing the Act Relative to Equal Access bill is VERY important to you. If they need more information, tell them the bill has been filed as House Docket #1172 and Senate Docket #568.

3) Fill out our Report Results form to let us know how it went.

Action Day Script

If you’re worried about what to say, just follow the script below.

Hi my name is _____________. I am a constituent of Representative/Senator ______. Is the Representative/Senator in today? (If no, ask if there is someone you can talk with.)

I am calling because I would like my legislator to cosponsor An Act Relative to Equal Access in Hospitals, Public Transportation, Nursing Homes, Supermarkets, Retail Establishments, and all other places open to the public, which is House Docket #1172 and Senate Docket #568. This bill has been filed in the House by lead sponsors Representatives Carl Sciortino and Byron Rushing and in the Senate by lead sponsors Senators Sonia Chang-Diaz and Ben Downing. Is this something Representative/Senator ______ is willing to cosponsor?

IF THE AIDE SAYS YES, you can reply with:

Thank you! That’s great! I really appreciate Representative/Senator _____’s cosponsoring this bill. I will be sure to pass your name along to Representative Sciortino (or Senator Chang-Diaz if talking to a Senator). The bill has been filed as House Docket #1172 and Senate Docket #568. Your office can seek or confirm your cosponsorship on LAWS. (If Representative) Please contact Raffi Freedman-Gurspan, 617-722-2013, raffi.freedman-gurspan@mahouse.gov, in Rep. Carl Sciortino’s office. (If Senator) Please contact Katherine Adam, 617-722-1673, Katherine.Adam@masenate.gov, in Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz’s office if you have any questions.

IF THE AIDE SAYS YES, WE HAVE ALREADY SIGNED ON AS A COSPONSOR, you can reply with:

Thank you! That’s great! I really appreciate Representative/Senator __________’s cosponsoring this bill.

IF THE AIDE SAYS THAT THEY NEED TO CHECK WITH THEIR BOSS, you can reply with:

I have an Equal Access Legislative Brief that I would like to email to you about the bill. Also, Raffi Freedman-Gurspan, 617-722-2013, in Representative Carl Sciortino’s office (if talking with your Rep) and/or Katherine Adam,617-722-1673, in Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz’s office (if talking your Senator) can also provide your boss with more information. Thank you for your attention to this matter. When is a good time for me to check back about where you stand after reading the brief and what action you are taking on this bill?

IF THE AIDE SAYS NO, you can reply with:

Thank you for your time. I would like to email a 2013 Equal Access Legislative Brief to you today and I would like to meet with you (if talking directly with Senator or Rep) Representative/Senator _____ in the district office to talk about the bill. When is a good time for me to check back about where you stand after reading the fact sheet?

Thank them for taking the time out of their busy schedules to talk with you and wish them a good day!

AFTERWARD

Email staffers the 2013 Equal Access Legislative Brief. Fill out our Report Results form to let us know how it went.

Talk Up #MAtransbill Online

We’d love for you to post to Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, etc., about why you are supporting the Equal Access Bill today. Why are public accommodations protections important to you? Use the hashtag #MAtransbill, and add #TransMA if there’s room.

Signal boost! If you live in the New England area, get on the phone and do your part to help out!

MTPC Aids with Gender Identity Non-Discrimination Protections in Massachusetts

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 11:36:42 -0500

masstpc:

In November of 2011, Massachusetts became the 16th state to add non-discrimination laws for gender identity in the areas of employment, housing, K-12 public education, and credit. Additionally, Massachusetts Hate Crimes laws were also updated to include gender identity. This law is known as An Act Relative to Gender Identity.

The Act Relative to Gender Identity defines “gender identity”:

“Gender identity” shall mean a person’s gender-related identity, appearance or behavior, whether or not that gender-related identity, appearance or behavior is different from that traditionally associated with the person’s physiology or assigned sex at birth.

Gender-related identity may be shown by providing evidence including, but not limited to, medical history, care or treatment of the gender-related identity, consistent and uniform assertion of the gender-related identity or any other evidence that the gender-related identity is sincerely held, as part of a person’s core identity; provided however, gender-related identity shall not be asserted for any improper purpose.

MTPC’s Executive Director Gunner Scott was a leader of the legislative campaign that made this Act into reality. Gunner worked non-stop for five years to organize, curate, and lead the efforts that would see the Act passed into law. It went into effect statewide on July 1, 2012.

The Act Relative to Gender Identity ensures that transgender individuals in Massachusetts will not be denied housing, credit, employment, or equal access to public education based on their gender identity.

Unfortunately, this new legislation does not extend protections in public accommodations. There is a campaign for public accommodations protection in 2013 going on now. If you have not yet sent an RSVP for our Legislative Action Day taking place on January 17, 2013, at the State House, please do so now. Aid MTPC in the next critical step toward equal rights under state law for transgender individuals in Massachusetts.

If you believe that you have been the victim of discrimination in employment, see MTPC’s Discrimination Resources page for more information on how to file discrimination complaints.

This includes discrimination in housing, at a homeless shelter, in a hospital, at school, at a bank, by a government or state agency, by the police, in a retail establishment, at a restaurant, in a hotel, or while voting. Also, if you have been the victim of a hate crime because of your gender identity or gender expression, we can help you find assistance.

Signal boost!

So what is MTPC? Find out below!

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 13:49:25 -0500

transawareness:

masstpc:

Founded in 2001, the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition (MTPC) is an advocacy, education, and community-building organization that works to end discrimination on the basis of gender identity and expression. This includes working toward the empowerment of all persons who have been, are being, or might be deprived of equal rights and/or fair treatment because of their gender expression or identity. MTPC is a fiscally sponsored 501c3 non-profit with one full-time staff, active Board, dedicated volunteers, and statewide chapters. MTPC does not engage in campaign or electoral politics.

We at MTPC believe that denying transgender individuals in our great state of Massachusetts their basic rights is unjust and discriminatory. We believe strongly that Massachusetts is the state paving the way on LGBT issues, and are working toward our goal of bringing transgender issues to the forefront of Massachusetts legislative attention. There is no time like the present, and we at MTPC strive to change the face of transgender rights in Massachusetts. We are off to a great start in the new year with our work on the 2013 transgender Equal Access Bill, and have many more exciting projects ahead!

How is MTPC run?

MTPC is governed by a Steering Committee (SC), made up of persons of all ages who self-identify as transgender/gender variant/genderqueer/intersex (majority) as well as non-transgender family members, partners, friends, and allies (minority). SC members, elected on an annual basis by the voting membership, oversee its executive director and direct policy and priority, as captured in a mission statement and bylaws. The SC also performs much of the work of MTPC in the absence of adequate paid staff.

What does MTPC provide that varies from other LGBT nonprofits in Massachusetts?

MTPC provides a consistent voice to key decision makers about the lives of transgender youth and adults and their families. While there are many legal, advocacy, and social organizations focused broadly on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community there are very few that are led by and created specifically for the transgender community, and in Massachusetts MTPC is that organization.

What are MTPC’s current goals?

The aim of MTPC’s programming is to improve the lives of the Massachusetts transgender youth, adults, and their families by working on the following initiatives on a daily basis:

Organizing and empowering transgender people to advocate for themselves

Developing leadership within transgender communities through community education and opportunities

Educating the public, the media, and institutions about issues facing transgender communities

Increasing the awareness of policy makers about the needs of transgender communities

Advocating for equal access through policy changes at the institutional, state, and local levels.

These initiatives were created in direct response to the needs voiced to MTPC by transgender people and reiterated in the findings of a 2009 community needs survey conducted by MTPC.

Please submit any questions or comments for us to our Ask box or send us an email. Following us ensures you’re always up to date on the latest news from MTPC!

Signal boost for an awesome New England transgender organization.

For guys local to Massachusetts, mark your calendars and be sure to follow MTPC’s new tumblr. They’re gearing up for a Legislative Action Day at the State House January 17th from 11 am to 1 pm. Constituents will gather to educate their legislators about the necessity of protecting transgender people’s access to public accommodations through the passage of An Act Relative to Equal Access in Hospitals, Public Transportation, Nursing Homes, Supermarkets, Retail Establishments, and all other places open to the public.

If you want your voice heard, RSVP!!

MTPC Hosts Legislative Action Day for Mass. Transgender Public Accommodations Protections on Jan. 17, 2013

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 14:42:50 -0500

masstpc:

The Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition is hosting a Legislative Action Day at the State House January 17 from 11 am to 1 pm. Constituents will gather to educate their legislators about the necessity of protecting transgender people’s access to public accommodations through the passage of An Act Relative to Equal Access in Hospitals, Public Transportation, Nursing Homes, Supermarkets, Retail Establishments, and all other places open to the public.

The Equal Access Bill would add “gender identity” to existing Massachusetts civil rights law for public accommodations, which currently prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, sex and marital status. Nationwide, 15 states, the District of Columbia and 187 cities and counties (including Boston, Cambridge, Amherst and Northampton) have passed non-discrimination laws or ordinances protecting people on this basis.

Public accommodations include any establishment, public or private, that is open to the general public and provides, or endeavors to provide, some type of goods and/or services to the general public. Examples of accommodations are banks, gas stations, beauty salons, funeral parlors and employment agencies; offices of professionals such as doctors, attorneys, dentists, accountants, travel agents and insurance agents; court rooms, lobbies, polling places and government agencies; hotels, restaurants and bars; shopping centers; theaters, concert halls, sports arenas and convention centers; museums, libraries and galleries; parks, zoos, amusement parks and beaches; public transit and airports; and public streets and sidewalks.

MTPC’s Executive Director, Gunner Scott, said, “Public accommodations protections would make explicit the Commonwealth’s commitment to providing people of all gender identities equal protection under the law, and guarantee transgender youth, adults, and families the opportunity to participate in and contribute to their communities and to the local economy. This bill is about fairness and all residents having the same access to public places.”

According to a recent transgender discrimination survey, 58% of Massachusetts respondents experienced verbal harassment or mistreatment in public accommodations such as hotels, restaurants, buses, airports and government agencies because they are transgender; 22% of transgender adults were denied equal treatment by a government agency or official; and 24% of transgender adults who interacted with police experienced harassment by officers.

“I applaud the Massachusetts legislature and Governor Deval Patrick for the 2011 passage of An Act Relative to Gender Identity, which adds gender identity non-discrimination protections in the areas of education, employment, housing and credit/lending. The Equal Access Bill fills in that missing piece of public accommodations, which are all the places between home, work or school. This is necessary for full equality all transgender youth, adults, and families in Massachusetts,” said Nancy Nangeroni, chair of MTPC’s board.

RSVP: http://www.masstpc.org/take-action/current-legislation/legislative-action-day/

Signal boost!

Finding Fashion for Every Body

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 10:52:02 -0500

Fashion is universal. Everyone wants to look good, and feel confident when they’re out in public. For that matter, people often just want to look good and feel comfortable just sitting around at home. Everyone should have clothes which fit well and make them smile when they see their reflection. They should have accessories that compliment their wardrobe, and even that one piece from the back of the closet that they never wear. We encourage you to find these pieces, let them see the light. We have clothing, products, and services that make any piece into a fashion statement.

Here at Genderplayful Marketplace, we have some pretty big dreams. We want to be the premiere fashion bazaar for those who are gender variant, or have unique clothing needs to fit their bodies. Whether you need pants hemmed, dresses taken in, shirts adjusted—we want to be the ones to meet those needs. We can’t achieve these dreams without help. We’re currently accepting applications for new vendors, and if you haven’t yet applied we encourage you to do so.

If you’re just looking for something to accent your wardrobe, and don’t feel up to signing up to vend with us that’s okay, too. We have amazing vendors with a variety of pieces. You never know, we may just have that one accessory you’re looking for to go with an outfit. Feel free to browse our current sellers and see what they have to offer.

If you have any questions for us about Genderplayful Marketplace, our ask box is always open!

Bringing Fashion to Everyone with Genderplayful!

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 10:11:08 -0500

Genderplayful is a Marketplace unlike any other. We know that fashion and gender are two very different things, despite mainstream media telling us fashion for genders only works ‘one way’. Here at Genderplayful we’re hoping to meet the needs of all body types, gender identities, and presentations.

If you missed our post yesterday, we’re looking for vendors! Signing up is simple, and once you submit an application our wonderful vendor coordinator Zee will get in touch with you to get your shop set up. We use a storefront that’s Wordpress based, so if you are familiar with Wordpress based templates you’ll have little trouble getting your shop up and running. If you run into problems, rest assured that we’re here to help!

We need your help (yes, all of you!) to continue to bring Genderplayful to its full potential. We have amazing vendors as it stands right now, but we’d love to see that number grow. If you know someone who is crafty, loves to check out thrift shops for the latest edgy fashion finds, or you’re a crafty type yourself—we’d love to have you fill out an application. Before you do, though, take a minute to read our guidelines so you can make sure we’re your cup of tea.

Also, if you run a website that matches up with what we’re about, or you think we’d click—we’re looking into doing ad swaps with other like-minded sites! Feel free to email us for more information.

We know fashion affects everyone on a personal level, and that finding clothes and accessories can often be a hassle when it doesn’t need to be. Here at Genderplayful Marketplace, we’re hoping to have a bazaar that has something for everyone. We can’t do that without your help, so help us spread the word by giving us a signal boost.

Genderplayful Wants You!

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 23:53:24 -0500

Hi everyone! My name is Kiran, and I’m here to restore the Genderplayful tumblr back to its former glory. Genderplayful is, in its own words: “A community-driven marketplace that celebrates diversity in gender presentation and body types.” Sister project to Genderfork, Genderplayful is setting the stage to offer a new experience for its shoppers and vendors.

Finding clothes that fit well and make you feel comfortable is just one of the many goals of Genderplayful.

As wonderful as these goals are, they can’t be accomplished without vendors! Are you crafty, or do you know someone who is? Genderplayful Marketplace is open for business and looking for new merchants that are looking to sell their wares. Unlike other online craft venues, the products you sell in your storefront don’t have to be handmade by you personally. Fashion is important to us, and we know it can come from anywhere.

If you are a thrift store addict, with clothes for every gender in your closet, or maybe you have a cool collection of accessories you’ve picked up in your travels—we encourage you to open a shop. If you can use Wordpress you’ll have little trouble setting up your storefront with us. If you need help, we have vendor support to help you create a successful shop.

Whether it’s glittery earrings, upcycled or re-purposed t-shirts, custom alterations, tailoring, or even a new accessory to add a little something to an outfit you already own—Genderplayful Marketplace has something for everyone, regardless of body type, gender identity, or expression.

What you’ll find currently at Genderplayful ranges from knit felt hats at One Raven Knits all the way to glitter and etched metal jewelry at Rowdy Baubles. If you’d like to join the cast and crew of our amazing vendors, we’d love to hear from you. Feel free to fill out an application, and be sure to check out our current vendors!

Genderplayful needs a Tumblr Curator!

Sun, 09 Sep 2012 16:06:41 -0400

Hi Tumblr peeps!

You may have noticed that our tumblr feed got quiet recently. That’s because our (totally amazing wonderful) volunteer, Emily, got busy with real life, and needed to step out for awhile. We need someone to fill her shoes. Interested?

Since the store is launched now, we want to shift our tumblr focus more toward our community members — who we are, what we’re up to, what we find inspiring, and what sexy products our sellers just listed that everyone needs to know about.

If you’re interested in joining our volunteer staff for this role, please email us (genderplayful at gmail dot com) and tell us who you are, why you’re interested, and how you’d be perfect.

Can’t wait to hear from you!

xo,
Sarah Dopp

~ ~ ~
founder, Genderplayful Marketplace
http://genderplayful.com

Have you heard the news? Genderplayful.com is open for business!...

Sun, 09 Sep 2012 15:31:00 -0400

Have you heard the news? Genderplayful.com is open for business! Come play, share, shop, sell, and discuss with your genderplayful fashion savvy community (who by the way thinks you look super hot today). Check it out!

thebluepeninsula: Esther Quek, fashion director at menswear...

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 12:56:39 -0400

thebluepeninsula:

Esther Quek, fashion director at menswear magazine The Rake

Genderplayful Marketplace

An Update on Genderplayful

masstpc: From the National Center for Transgender...

MTPC Call to Action: Equal Access Bill 2/1 DEADLINE

Think Transgender People Don't Need Equal Access to Public Accommodations? Think Again.

In the News: Hurtful Question about How to Handle Aunt Being Transgender

Public Accommodations: They’re More Than Just Restrooms!

MTPC Call to Action: Equal Access Bill

I Am: Trans People Speak

Transgender 101 with MTPC!

Definitions

Frequently Asked Questions

Are transgender people the same as gay/lesbian people?

Can I tell if someone is transgender?

What is gender transition?

Why do transgender people need legal protections?

Style Guides

MTPC’s Resources for Dealing with Discrimination or Hate Crimes

Forms and Documents for Reporting Discrimination:

Statewide Resources

Boston and Cambridge

Police

Public Accommodation, Housing, Credit

Other Resources

Transgender Equal Access to Public Accommodations Action Day!

MTPC Aids with Gender Identity Non-Discrimination Protections in Massachusetts

So what *is* MTPC? Find out below!

MTPC Hosts Legislative Action Day for Mass. Transgender Public Accommodations Protections on Jan. 17, 2013

Finding Fashion for Every Body

Bringing Fashion to Everyone with Genderplayful!

Genderplayful Wants You!

Genderplayful needs a Tumblr Curator!

Have you heard the news? Genderplayful.com is open for business!...

thebluepeninsula: Esther Quek, fashion director at menswear...

So what is MTPC? Find out below!