The following letter by Elizabeth Dray of Arlington was published in the July 5 Boston Globe under the headline “Court’s decision affects people of all gender identities” and is republished with the author’s permission:
I am disappointed in how so many members of the media, organizations, and individuals erroneously describe the devastating effects of the decision to strike down Roe v. Wade as a woman’s issue.
This decision affects the right to abortion for people of all gender identities, not just women. Excluding those who have a uterus and menstruate but do not identify as women, such as trans masculine and nonbinary people, sends a message that they don’t count, that they are not affected, and that they have no right to their fear and anger.
At a time when our country is specifically attacking trans and nonbinary bodies and communities, we cannot afford to be careless with language that further alienates and endangers our community members. Our trans and nonbinary communities are moving through their own layered experiences, and this is the time to show support and inclusion. We must call each other in and unite as we fight for our own and one another’s lives.
This letter was published Tuesday, July 5, 2022.
