When someone introduces themselves with their preferred pronouns, you understand that’s what the person wants to be called, but what does it really mean?
Black Public Media’s powerful new documentary short film series “I Am Who I Say I Am” answers that burning question. A similar topic but different perspectives are shown in each short film. Each short is masterful and makes an informative impact in under three minutes. The subject of transgender people is relatively new within the mainstream of society. Changing a mindset on something someone thought they knew for so long can be difficult for many, especially for older generations. These films explore that conversation with concise tales of the people living within the LGBTQ community.
At the Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice in Princeton, NJ, member, and longtime LGBTQ activist and advocate Frank Mahood, recently reviewed the films. “I thought the videos were wonderful and informative. I particularly like the subject about using the preferred pronouns,” he said. Mahood has been married to his husband, Chet Kabara, since 2013. “I have to admit that I struggled with the they and them usage at first, but I continue to make an effort, and I am getting much more comfortable and natural.” Mahood added that the most important thing is that even if using alternate pronouns is difficult for most people, using them is a sign of respect. “And everyone deserves that,” he said.
A key takeaway from the videos is the importance of understanding and acceptance. Pronouns are just a start for connecting to the experience that the person is going through. When someone opens up about who they are, it takes a feeling of safety and trust as they bare their soul. There is a seeking of support and acceptance from loved ones, friends, and non-trans with the journey of discovering who they are. Understanding that people have a human experience can make all the difference. It can be a tough conversation for some, but it all starts with that conversation and listening to who they tell you they are.
Learn more about Black Public Media and watch the documentary short film series at the linkhttps://blackpublicmedia.org/beheard-22