‘Chosen’ Name

In the October 2018 issue of the Journal of Adolescent Health, research was published showing the importance of using a person’s chosen name. When transgender or non-binary kids were called by their chosen names, it reduced the adolescents’ level of depression, suicidal ideation and suicidal behaviors.

This just goes to show what an impact the environment has on transgender and non-binary folx, and it suggests that this can be a source of strength and support, just as it can be a source of bullying and harassment. I often get asked about how people can be good allies to the trans and non-binary communities and there are many ways and many different levels of impact. However, using a person’s chosen name is something each and every one of us has the power to do to make the lives of gender divers folx just a bit better.