Jankity

We’re at a cultural moment right now where being gay or lesbian or bisexual has finally started to be okay.

Being transgender, gender nonconforming, or genderqueer? We’re here… like hi! Hello!  Yes, we exist, everywhere, and y’all still treat us like… like we are interesting to look at, interesting to intellectualize but not to get too close to.

It’s a lonely journey. I initially received such a warm reception, all these “You’re so brave”s and “good for you”s, but then something serious happens... and no one’s there.

Who do I turn to when I feel like everyone is only friends with me because I’m the token trans kid? 

Diversity on this campus is a bullet point on a pamphlet, it’s charts, and statistics. Inclusivity is a prize to achieve: “Look at this queer person I’m on good terms with,” as if people are supposed to congratulate you or something.

That’s what Colgate kids do. You use “social justice” as social capital.

And it’s really fucked.

I’ve heard from multiple people that they want to be supportive but they just don’t understand or they’re too afraid to ask questions. Like with strangers, I get that. But with friends and family, classmates, and people I’m getting to know and learning to be vulnerable with, it could really help if y'all could just… say what you felt. It makes my life so much easier if people want to know; if they’re not bored by what I have to say.

I want to be heard. But you all have to be willing to hear me.

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Written by unknown, edited by Parna Shakouri '23