Ed Note: This post was written last night after we'd stopped posting for the day. Sara will be joining the No on 8 campaign today.
I'll go to work tomorrow. I'm a bit of a baby when it comes to travel and time changes so I didn't feel I could hit the ground running.
And I'm starting to learn I don't have to bleed to be successful or a good person.
I was starved when I got here. I went to the lobby bar and ordered some food. The waitress said, Do you prefer Miss or Mr. Whitman?
It was a clear understanding of gender identity in a respectful tone. I said Miss is fine.
Thank you.
I can't even count the times I've been called Sir in my life. Daily? For once I felt respected.
Now I'm trying to stay up and pretend my body is not aching to go to sleep. But I will say this- I love San Francisco.
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10 Comments
Sara,
The trans community is large and highly visible in San Francisco, and they have made a lot of strides there. You just witnessed that up close and personal. I'm glad you are enjoying yourself.
MonicaHelms | October 28, 2008 12:20 PM
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well, at least they didn't say, Mam'or sir...
that would have mad me feel soooo old.
Sara Whitman | October 28, 2008 1:03 PM
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It's like here in Maryland; the kids preface everything with 'Miss' so I become 'Miss Sherry' and my partner becomes 'Miss Kerry' and damn if that does not make us feel older than dirt!
Sher | October 28, 2008 1:29 PM
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the first time some kid called me "Ma'am", all I could think was "Oh, no..NOW I feel middle aged!"
Susan_F | October 29, 2008 8:08 AM
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Sara,
Welcome to California and San Francisco.
Just assume everybody is transgendered, or questioning something, and you will fit right in.
It is by far the easiest way to be.
If you are asked which restroom you prefer, don't assume they are being rude, (like I did). They are politely asking your gender preference.
Don't let them work you too hard. Pace yourself, and you will make a difference.
Enjoy.
Claire
Claire Jennifer | October 28, 2008 4:10 PM
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I am glad you felt accepted and welcome. It really should be irrelevant where you are. If you could to Las Vegas, there is at least one person here who will treat you as you should be treated--with respect and dignity.
xoz
symbiote | October 28, 2008 5:11 PM
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Right on!
Bil Browning | October 28, 2008 6:55 PM
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amen to that. a little more respect and dignity.
I love my home. I love Massachusetts. But I have to say, this is a special place. We could all take some lessons from how hard the community has worked out here.
Sara Whitman | October 28, 2008 6:07 PM
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Vilkommen, bienvenue, welcome!
All hands on deck! Thank you for bringing yours out here. Every iota of every available soul is much neeeded.
Polly | October 29, 2008 4:12 AM
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Have fun!
I've been called sir many times as well, and I'm a very feminine person...my hair is just too short for society's standards, I'm afraid. I get so much crap about that at school (my sexuality isn't "standard" either... :-) ).
Visiting San Francisco is definitely on my bucket list.
Abigail | October 29, 2008 6:18 PM
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