Skip to main content

Bruce Jenner Has a Privilege in Telling His Truth

Image

I watched ABC tonight, when, during an interview with Diane Sawyer, Bruce Jenner came out as a transgender woman. Like Jenner, I transitioned a little bit later in life. I’m grateful for the support I’ve had and wish the same for Jenner and his family. (He told Sawyer he would use masculine pronouns for the time being, so I’ll respect his wish here as well.)

I sympathize greatly with Bruce’s experience, but I also recognize the huge privilege that comes with being able to share your story with Diane Sawyer on national television. Many people early in their transition have been hurt or ignored by those who they believed were on their side. Most of us transition with little fanfare or recognition at all — but each of our stories are important.

Acknowledging transgender people’s existence — as Jenner has helped do for the millions of viewers in last night’s interview — is just not enough. Acknowledging Jenner’s path really requires understanding the journey of countless transgender Americans who live equally as bravely as Jenner does. The truth is that each of us who makes the choice to reveal who we are reaps a huge personal benefit, but also makes a remarkable sacrifice. This is no less true for Jenner.

Read the full piece here.

Learn more about transgender people here.

Join Our Mailing List

Sign Up