Monday, May 21, 2012

Two Transwomen Nominated For DC Human Rights Commission

Was happy to hear that Washington D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray has nominated trans activists and 2010 IFGE Trinity Award winner Earline Budd and Alexandra Beninda for seats on the D.C. Commission on Human Rights.


The 15 member commission is only operating with three member at the current time, and if the two are confirmed as expected by the D.C. City Council, they would become the first trans persons ever to serve on it.

The Human Rights Commission rules on discrimination complaints brought under the D.C. Human Rights Act that was passed in 1977.   The comprehensive act bans discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations and other areas based on an individual’s sexual orientation and gender identity and expression as well as other categories such as race, religion, national origin, and ethnicity.

“To be getting one transgender person on the commission would be great, but to be getting two is fantastic,” said Beninda to the Washington Blade.  

“I’m really excited and looking forward to serving,” said Budd while attending Saturday’s LGBT Youth Pride festival in Dupont Circle. “This is important for the entire community.”

It most certainly is 'Number 4' and Alexandra.  It's vitally important to have our perspectives and lived life experiences on boards and commissions such as this, and especially one that investigates human rights complaints.   

I have no doubt you ladies will do a wonderful job in representing the Washington D.C. trans community on the Human Rights Commission.

TransGriot Update: Here's the Washington Blade story about their swearing in




No comments: