I read in the paper that Massachusetts Senate passed a bill that would allow someone to check “x” instead of male or female on their driver’s license. I celebrated this announcement as a big deal, a turning point in which society has pivoted towards inclusivity of the diverse spectrum of human expression.
I told my 17-year-old, who was looking at Instagram on the couch. She replied, “That’s cool.” I had her turn to look at me and emphasized, “This is REALLY cool. Your generation doesn’t get that this is even a change. It is a really good positive change for humanity.”
I read on: “The bill passed the Senate on a 36-1 vote. It will now go to the House for consideration. Sen. Don Humason, R-Westfield, was the lone no vote.” I was filled with disappointment and anger. “Humason said after the vote that he has not heard from a single constituent or advocacy group about this being an issue.” I know of three specific instances where transgender rights have been raised with him. “Where does it all stop? How many different possible identities could there possibly be?” Humason said.”
I want to answer these concerns. It won’t stop. There are as many different possible identities as there are people in the world. Gender is a social construct that classifies people into boxes. By providing the third box on the license we’ve acknowledged this diversity. We don’t need more boxes. We need more acknowledgment and celebration of diversity. We need more open hearts and compassion. Our elected officials are in position to lead so many into this way of thinking.
I invite Humason to take the next step. His lone negative vote does not reflect anything more than cowardice to me. It makes a statement only of ignorance, not of reason or true concern. I am hopeful our state will continue to be a leader in the realm of human rights and justice. I am relieved that Humason’s current thinking on the issues are clearly not obstructing this and hope he can learn more, quickly, about inclusive leadership opportunities.
Audrey Hyvonen
Easthampton