I know I’m just one person, but I felt I had to say something after reading about the saga of the young trans high schooler in Randolph. I am outraged at how she has been treated by bullies locally, and by bloodthirsty campaigns of national hate.
Shame on them all for how they have attacked and harassed a young person trying to live a normal childhood and participate in her community. I’m struck by this young woman’s strength while she experiences an ordeal no one should have to endure.
We have seen over and over again what the intent of this rhetoric is. There are many in this country who want trans people to stop existing, whether through legislation, harassment, or outright violence. We cannot allow that to happen.
I am writing to say, for me, and the people I am proud to call my friends, that trans people will always belong in Vermont. No matter what attempts are being made to remove them from public life, trans people will always be an irreplaceable part of my state and my community. So long as I live, I will do whatever I can to protect my community from harm, and anyone who calls themself a Vermonter should do the same.
Finn Abbey
Jericho