the summit went well people were supportive the more open I was, the easier it was (for others as well as myself) The community’s commitment to diversity is real
I am (almost always) the only (openly) trans person in the room I am not “real” I have become a thing, a curiosity People are sometimes embarrassed to be seen with me I have lost friends, family, a career
My life, my experiences, my emotions are often the punchline of a joke Most states won’t protect my right to work, enter a store, go to the bathroom, or get medical care I’m much more likely to be beaten up… or worse
I’ve come to know other women in tech scary smart women women who aren't always recognized women who don't always feel welcome women who don't always feel safe I was a newcomer in a world I thought I knew
I am now often the only woman in the room I am now “invisible” I am now ALWAYS judged by my appearance I can no longer assume personal security Double standards are now the norm: as a woman I’m simultaneously “too nice” and “unapproachable”
Thank you [email protected] @NaomiCeder http://learnpython.wordpress.com http://whataboutnaomi.blogspot.com (and please buy my book - http://manning.com/ceder)