OPINION: Recently, the University of Maine was exposed to the prominent anti-transgender rhetoric promoted by the modern conservative party when Rep. Laurel Libby, R-Auburn gave a talk on campus. Libby is a key figure in the resurgent transphobic movement in Maine who was censured by the Maine House of Representatives for doxxing a transgender teenager involved in high school sports on social media.
The UMaine community demonstrated strong support against trans hate by protesting outside of the Donald P. Corbett building. They chanted loudly and maintained civility, even though one protester reported being spat on. It’s important for allies of the trans community to make it clear that hate isn’t welcome at UMaine.
However, it’s just as important to show up for events held by the trans community.
I didn’t participate in the protest against Laurel Libby, but I did attend the Transgender Day of Remembrance Vigil the following day. It was a somber yet beautiful event, providing an opportunity to unite and honor the lives lost to transphobic violence nationwide. It was important to stand in allyship with the community in a space focused on listening, as opposed to the protest which aimed to make a loud statement.
The attendance turned out to be suitable for the size of the event, but I couldn’t help but notice the difference in attendance between the Libby Protest and the vigil.
Showing up for love is just as important as standing against hate. While being against transphobia is a positive step, it’s the bare minimum for advocacy. The real revolutionary position is not just to oppose transphobia, but to actively support and uplift the trans community. It’s easier to rally against hate than it is to show up in a space to provide genuine support.
Protests have become more popular due to the glamorization of being a protestor. Some leftist groups believe that effective advocacy work can only be done through protesting. While I don’t intend to diminish the importance of protesting as a valid tool to express discontent, I believe it’s just as important to show up in ways that directly and actively support your community.
It’s often easier for people to be anti-transphobia rather than be pro-transgender as many people fall somewhere in the middle on these matters. While they may not be well-informed about the experiences of transgender individuals, they don’t believe in discriminating against them.
Taking an anti-transphobia stance represents a middle ground between having no opinion on the issue and being deeply engaged with the community.
UMaine students must continue to be anti-hate. Keep participating in protests against hateful speakers on campus. However, remember to also connect with the community that you’re protesting and advocating for. Actively demonstrate to these communities that they are valued, loved and supported by showing up to their events as well.
