The Power of Language

I have had the privilege over the past ten years or so to speak to classes, businesses and community groups on the subject of supporting trans people. At the opening of any talk I make a point to describe words I use so everyone has a common understanding. Here's the point: when we speak the same language we can better understand each other! This seems like a simple truth, but it's actually pretty profound. Take, for example, the word "queer." Once used as a slur, it now is used as a descriptive word to describe the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Some people use it freely. Some people hate it. Regardless of how we feel about particular words, the words we choose have the power to elevate or harm. This subject will come up again and again, but today I will leave you with this terrific video from a series by them.