how does iowa view transgenders? (Des Moines, Cedar Rapids: relocating, high schools, university)

[tmmoore63]

i am wondering if iowa is a safe place and acceptable to the transgender community?
thanks,
tessa marie moore

[DBQer]

Originally Posted by tmmoore63

i am wondering if iowa is a safe place and acceptable to the transgender community?
thanks,
tessa marie moore

The transgender community is not exactly discussed in everyday conversations in Iowa, so it would be hard to guage, but its individuals would more likely find acceptance in the state's larger cities (Des Moines, Cedar Rapids) or college towns (Ames, Iowa City). As a general rule, though, Iowans are usually not hostile to those who go about their own business and don't draw negative attention to themselves. Give respect, and you'll almost always get respect.

[Bloviator]

Tessa, Iowa is conservative in many ways (not necessarily politically -- though our state did go for Bush in 04, the first time we went "red" in 20 years). Many people in this state are very traditional and old-school, but once they get to know you, MOST people accept you for who you are. That's my observation, anyway.

But there are definitely some very progresive pockets. If you are thinking of relocating here, I would strongly suggest Iowa City or Des Moines. IC would be my first choice. There is a strong gay community here and there was a university professor who underwent a sex change. She has said she was supported strongly by the university faculty and community, though sadly, her own family had her committed to a psych ward when she (then a he) announced the plans to become transgendered. Her name is Deidre McClosky if you want to google. I believe she's now at the U of Michigan.

There is a local LGBTS organization - LGBTSFA

High schools in the larger cities in Iowa also have LGBTS organizations, typically. The ones here do, anyway.

Tessa, you should not include your (real) full name on any internet board, regardless of the topic. Just a safety tip.

[El Rhino]

Originally Posted by DBQer

The transgender community is not exactly discussed in everyday conversations in Iowa, so it would be hard to guage, but its individuals would more likely find acceptance in the state's larger cities (Des Moines, Cedar Rapids) or college towns (Ames, Iowa City). As a general rule, though, Iowans are usually not hostile to those who go about their own business and don't draw negative attention to themselves. Give respect, and you'll almost always get respect.

I'm going to have to agree with this one. It's not something we would see on a daily basis so I think you would get a lot of strange, maybe hostile looks.

Honestly, I doubt there are many places period that a transgender person could go and not experience some sort of discrimination.

[Chicago60614]

It's not really something Iowans hear about much (I suppose you could say that in any state). For a rural state, it's pretty open-minded and easy going. I know we had a successful Gay/Lesbian group in my high school over 10 years ago when I went to high school in Iowa.

[tmmoore63]

so far iowa has been real kind to me during my transition. since it is a slow procees it makes it alot easier for people to accept it and to realize what is going on. i also have alot of support from my family and friends. i live in a small town and wouldnt trade it for anything else. i believe that i am the only one here in creston but everything has been going very well. i think it is how i treat others with respect that i am getting the same back. a positive personality helps.
thanks everyone,
tessa marie moore

[tmmoore63]

Does Anyone Know Any Transgender Comunities Or Organizations That I Can Join In Sw Iowa?
Thanks,
Tessa

[GoHogsGo]

Well, i heard tell that an Iowa court made it LEGAL for gay marriage in the state of IOWA.

If that doesn't get the conservatives in an uproar, you sure as hell wont.

[ruralboy]

well, we think they are pretty weird and definitely iowans think they are freaks of nature

[Steve_W]

Just curious, to be considered a transgender, does that mean you start with both (male/female parts) or just referring to a transition to one or the other? Or can it be both?