I recently decided to return to school for a change in life direction. I was requested, among many other documents, my high school transcripts. Upon contacting the Florida Department of Education I was told they are not making name changes to the documents. That answer was not satisfactory as every identification I have reflects my current gender form.
I requested a reconsideration of this policy and here is the email I sent in, as requested by the supervisor.
Hello Mrs. V********,
We spoke briefly regarding name changes on school transcripts and GED records for transgendered folk. Although being transgendered is not necessarily a new occurrence, new laws and regulations are being changed and created daily to assure the safety and privacy of trans folk.
As a transgendered woman it was important for me to have my ID card, birth certificate, social security, and other documents amended so to protect my privacy and to keep me from incurring unnecessary discrimination. When I apply for a job, school, when I get carded at bars or even pulled over for by a police officer, although sworn to protect us, even officers have personal beliefs which impede them from giving everyone equal treatment.
It is a tough cruel world, and all I am asking is that you could consider my request to allow name changes to reflect our new identities. It will be very embarrassing to explain to my admissions officers at school my situation. It can bring unwanted discrimination, and it could even cost me a good education.
I would like very much that you could include the letter A at the end of my name when issuing the copy of the diploma I am mailing you a request for. It would facilitate my education and help me pursue a better future.
I really appreciate the opportunity to make a difference for people such as myself. Acceptance for all speaks highly of one’s character, and I am sure you will make the right choice on this matter.
“Before God we are all equally wise – and equally foolish” ~ Albert Einstein
Thank you for your time,
It is easy for us to accept defeat and simply turn the other cheek but no matter how small the act may be, it could have high implications and in this case keep people from incurring unnecessary discrimination.
MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD ~ HELP THE FIGHT FOR EQUALITY!