The start of a new semester, filled with new experiences, academics, work opportunities, and being able to meet with friends in our associations or hang out in our little circle of friendship.
I, like any other student that is already experienced with college life, made sure that everything was in order before I accepted my courses and started the classes anew, as intended. During this process, I found myself confronted with one of my concerns: the issues with my financial aid being accepted, it all would have gone well if it were not for one thing… my name.
As a transgender student, I do have the right of being spoken to by my name, instead of my deadname. This is a right granted to all students of the UPR system, but I can work around some parts where my dead name is needed, especially in official documents. I understand and am very aware that I still need to make changes, changes that for now remain more gradual than I would like them to be. But it seems this right is non-existent in th. I explained my situation, and the attendee avoided anything beyond that first exchange. I thought nothing of it and waited to be told the status of my grant.
And then I heard it.
It felt painful, it felt worse than bad. I have fought for my name to be recognized in this university through their own system just for it to be ignored, like it did not exist. I was told my grant was permitted. I was able to start the semester with more ease. But at the same time, how could I or any other trans student feel any ease when our rights are ignored like that? Why must we be our own vigilantes and show strength and courage when we are a vulnerable group?
But of course, there are a few ways to combat this, reporting to the procuradora estudiantil would be an excellent step, speaking to the office of Calidad de Vida could also help and alleviate, and most universities offer some sort of counsel, and despite this event there are people who care.
Regardless, we must continue to have these discussions, fight for our rights, and make people aware of trans issues. I can at least start with this article; hopefully, others can feel they are not alone and speak out. This is not fair, but I guess… it is just #colegiothings.