Trans woman shares her experience transitioning 12 years ago

Singer Demi Lovato came out as non-binary on Thursday. Both KIRO Radio’s Gee Scott and Ursula Reutin said they’re uncomfortable talking about it because they have so much to learn, they don’t want to make a mistake, and don’t want to be accused of being insensitive.

Listener Ericka, who is a trans woman in construction, shared with Gee and Ursula her experience transitioning 12 years ago, and has a message for people who are worried they’ll be attacked for getting a pronoun wrong.

Ericka said that she doesn’t want them to feel ashamed for mistakenly not using “they” as a pronoun.

“If you make an honest effort, that’s all I ask,” Ericka said. “Just make an honest effort. If you make a mistake, fine. That’s OK. If I take it further than that, that’s all about me at that point.”

Gee said he just doesn’t want to say something to offend someone, and to hear Ericka’s grace is great. But he also notices that people on social media are quick to point out mistakes and make accusations.

“That’s an emotional maturity issue,” Ericka pointed out.

Ursula said she believes that if your intent is true and you make a mistake while trying to learn, it’s OK.

“It all comes down to intent,” Ericka agreed. “Lean into it and make up for the mistake.”

Listen to the Gee and Ursula Show weekday mornings from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on KIRO Radio, 97.3 FM. Subscribe to the podcast here.