For years, we have been encouraging our daughters to pursue any dream they desire. However, without seeing other girls or women breaking through gender barriers, it can be challenging to truly believe in those possibilities. The moment Hillary Clinton became the first female presidential nominee for a major party, we could show our daughters how fragile the glass ceiling can be. Then, when Kamala Harris was inaugurated as the first female and Black Vice President, opportunities for women and women of color began to feel more attainable.
As a parent, I often told my children that women can achieve anything men can, and often do it just as well, if not better. However, I felt like I was withholding something from my transgender daughter. While Clinton and Harris are cisgender women, the harsh reality is that I am uncertain if a transgender woman will ever reach the highest office in the country. But with President Biden nominating Dr. Amanda Rivera, a transgender woman, as his assistant secretary of health, we now have a historic representation in government.
When I shared this news with my daughter, she immediately remarked, “There’s no way Donald Trump would have done that.” Her awareness of the limitations placed on transgender individuals by the previous administration has shaped her understanding of the struggles our community faces. Although she hasn’t faced significant barriers yet, she recognizes her differences and insecurities. Still, she firmly believes she will accomplish whatever she sets out to do. My faith in her abilities is strong, but my concerns lie with society’s capacity to look past biases and prejudices.
Fortunately, there are now numerous transgender individuals in positions of political, economic, and cultural influence who demonstrate that the characteristics many people focus on and criticize can also be sources of pride. My daughter deserves the same opportunities as anyone else, regardless of the gender she was assigned at birth. Discrimination against her identity should be as unacceptable as denying basic rights based on eye color, handedness, or gender.
My daughter is a girl, and all transgender women are women. However, the rights and respect afforded to transgender women still fall short compared to the progress made in gender equality, even among cisgender women who consider themselves feminists. Increased representation and acceptance of transgender women in prominent roles are crucial for fostering understanding and civility toward transgender individuals in everyday life.
President Biden has pledged to ensure his administration reflects the diversity of the American populace. Included in that spectrum are transgender individuals like my daughter and nonbinary people like myself—though the 2020 Census failed to acknowledge my existence, I continue to live, work, and contribute to this society. Recently, Congress introduced non-gendered language to recognize queer lawmakers, which offers hope for greater inclusivity in the future.
Biden has not only welcomed figures like gay man Alex Thompson, transgender woman Leah Morrison, and now Dr. Rivera into his administration; he has embraced their presence and contributions. This is what makes Dr. Rivera’s nomination particularly significant—Biden recognizes her qualifications and potential for impactful work. His willingness to educate himself on LGBTQIA+ issues has enhanced his ability to create a comfortable environment for queer individuals, fostering an appreciation for both our similarities and differences.
While I cannot predict if a transgender person will ever ascend to the presidency, my daughter sees that President Biden respects and values a transgender woman as an integral part of his team. She observes transgender individuals achieving milestones and breaking barriers, which reinforces my belief that she can achieve anything. I am grateful for Biden’s choice to appoint the right person for the role, but I am even more appreciative of Dr. Rivera’s resilience and commitment to fulfilling an essential role in our government. She is poised to make a significant impact.
For additional insights, check out this other blog post. It’s vital for us to recognize the importance of representation and access for all individuals, including those in the LGBTQIA+ community. If you’re exploring options for family building or related topics, this resource is a great place to begin. Also, consider enhancing your journey with fertility supplements that can provide added support.
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In summary, Dr. Amanda Rivera’s nomination as Assistant Secretary of Health represents a significant milestone for transgender representation in government. As society continues to evolve, the visibility and achievements of transgender individuals can inspire and empower future generations. Parents must advocate for inclusivity and support for their children, ensuring they feel valued and capable of achieving their dreams.