(Reprint from June 2000, with some additions)
Trans people and SOFFAs (significant others, friends, families and
allies) are all too frequently subject to others' judgments, projections,
assumptions, and worse.
FORGE therefore seeks to provide a safe haven where people's identities,
needs, and beliefs are not questioned, devalued, or disrespected.
Participants in FORGE events are therefore expected to:
~ Be true to themselves and their own convictions.
~ Stay open-minded and flexible to allow for and honor individual difference
and diversity.
~ Respect and support others' identities and choices, including their
decisions to express their gender in whatever ways are comfortable.
~ Each person may come to FORGE with different needs and goals. Respect
an individual's right to silently listen to others experiences. Remember
there is a limited amount of time that must be shared among all participants
- please share freely, but be aware that others have a right to speak
as well.
~ Remember that individuals' identities and external appearances may
not "match," and that at FORGE, identities and experiences
are more important than appearances.
~ Recognize that SOFFAs face the same sorts of prejudices, dilemmas,
and challenges that their trans loved ones do, and deserve an equal
measure of respect and support.
~ Listen carefully to others. Questions or alternative viewpoints should
be phrased carefully to acknowledge that what works for one may not
work for others.
~ Avoid stereotyping.
~ Agree to disagree when necessary.
~ Be considerate of others' privacy. Think before speaking so you don't
accidentally out someone or cause an embarrassing situation.
