Definitions
What does it mean to be 'gender-expansive?'
Identifying in some way differently or beyond the gender you were assigned at birth, e.g., transgender, nonbinary, two-spirit, intersex, etc. Also known as genderqueer or non-cisgender.
One day during your mentoring shift, you misgender one of your mentees by accident. What may be an appropriate way to apologize?
Say "sorry" before quickly correcting yourself and moving on. Don't make it all about you!
What is gender-affirming care?
Any form of medical treatment given with the intent to make the patient feel more comfortable in their own body (e.g., hormone replacement therapy (HRT), top surgery, bottom surgery, facial feminization/masculinization surgery). The Trump administration has made a point in targeting trans youths' right to gender-affirming care, which is a serious and life-threatening issue for trans communities nationwide.
One of your fellow mentors or mentees asks about another student's gender identity. How should you respond?
What does it mean to transition?
Generally, transitioning is the process a person undertakes to change their physical and social reality to reflect how they want to express their gender identity. Transitioning has several aspects such as medical and social. Some people socially transition (adopting a new name and/or pronouns) without medically transitioning. Some people may start transitioning only in certain social spheres and wish for their identity to not be disclosed to certain people. Transitioning is considered a non-linear, continuing process that may or may not include goals or 'milestones.'
One of your mentees feels comfortable enough around you to come out to you as non-binary. They also tell you that they have been bullied in the past because of their identity. As far as you know, they have not told anybody else. What should you do?
[let the class discuss alongside Michelle]