My Speech from the 2004 Democrat Platform Committee

In 2004, I was a representative to the DNC's Platform Committee. I'll tell the story on my vlog, but here is a copy of the speech.

Mr. Chairman and Members of the Committee,

I rise today to give voice to a community with no member at today's meeting and invisible in our platform. I am speaking of the transgender community.

Our platform touches on many issues important to the trans-community, from education to health care to hate crimes and workplace discrimination. These issues, important to us all, have particular resonance in a community that is misunderstood, often maligned, and whose members live in fear of violence and discrimination.

Our platform says that hate crimes "demean good people." Gwen Araujo, Prvt. Barry Winchell, and Brandon Tina were not just "demeaned", they were murdered by individuals who saw no value in their humanity.

Transgender people are good citizens who make valuable contributions to their communities. Gender identity and gender expression are no basis to deny anyone a job, housing, an education or adequate medical care. These are mainstream issues as Governor Vilsack's own executive
order in his homestate demonstrates.

The transgender community understands that the Democratic Party's commitment to civil rights is "ironclad". Because of this Party's outreach efforts, there will be at least 8 transgender delegates in
Boston, an increase of 800% in 8 years, but more can be done. As a gay man, I can only be a surrogate for this distinct community, speaking second-hand in telling their stories and discussing their issues. We must do more to make certain that they themselves are included at the table.

Mr Chairman, I am instructed by the transgender delegates to tell this committee that the trans-community stands united behind the Kerry/Edwards ticket and will work for a Democratic victory in
November. At the request of the trans-delegation, and in recognition of this solidarity, I have been asked to withdraw this amendment, and do so now.

Thank you for your time.