Why outing trans kids at school is a bad idea

The government is on about publishing guidelines to schools that could force them to out trans kids at school to their parents.

Transgender kids are those who identify with a gender different from the one assigned to them at birth. They may express their gender identity through their clothing, hairstyle, name, pronouns, or other ways. Some trans kids may also seek medical interventions, such as hormone therapy or surgery, to align their body with their gender identity.

Outing is the act of revealing someone's sexual orientation or gender identity without their consent. It can happen intentionally or unintentionally, by family members, friends, classmates, teachers, or strangers. Outing can have serious consequences for the person who is outed, especially if they are not ready or willing to share this information with others.

As someone who is a trans woman, one of the hardest things I did was "come out" to your family. I chose to hide the fact I was trans as I was brought up in a Christian household. In fact, to get away from my family I joined the Army instead of coming out as trans to them. I eventually did and at the age of 45. Out of my foster family of 2 (Mother and Sister) and real family (Mother, Father, 2 Sisters and 2 Brothers) of 6 only my half sister and cousin now speaks to me.

Outing trans kids at school is a bad idea for several reasons. Here are some of them:

• It violates their privacy and autonomy. Trans kids have the right to decide who they want to tell about their identity and when they want to do so. They may have personal or safety reasons for keeping it confidential. Forcing them to disclose their identity without their consent is disrespectful and intrusive. It can also make them feel exposed, vulnerable, or ashamed.
• It puts them at risk of harm. Trans kids face many challenges and barriers in society, such as stigma, prejudice, violence, rejection, isolation, and lack of support. Outing them at school can increase these risks and make them more vulnerable to bullying, harassment, abuse, or discrimination from their peers, teachers, or staff. It can also affect their mental health, self-esteem, and academic performance.
• It undermines their identity and expression. Trans kids have the right to express their gender identity in ways that make them comfortable and happy. They may choose to dress, act, or speak in ways that match their gender identity, or they may not. Outing them at school can limit their choices and force them to conform to others' expectations or stereotypes. It can also invalidate their identity and make them feel like they are not accepted or respected for who they are.

Outing trans kids at school is not only a bad idea but also a harmful one. It can have negative impacts on their well-being, safety, and education. It can also violate their human rights and dignity. Therefore, it is important to respect trans kids' privacy and autonomy and support them in their identity and expression. If you are a trans kid who has been outed at school or if you know someone who has been outed, you are not alone. There are resources and organizations that can help you cope and advocate for your rights. You deserve to be yourself and be proud of who you are.