To whomever this may concern
I am a woman who was Assigned Male At Birth (AMAB), as such I deal with many psychologically damaging things. In the trans and genderqueer communities someones old name is commonly called their “dead name,” I like many others have changed my name to more accurately match who I am
Gender Dysphoria is a life threatening issue that affects 0.3 to 0.7% of people in Saskatchewan. Dead naming is using the name someone was given at birth that they no longer identify with. I am in a place where I am capable to fight this battle for the rights of trans and genderqueer individuals, as I am painfully aware that this is a matter of life and death for many in the trans community. For many being dead named on legal documents, even after the name has been legally changed, can be a life threatening event.
The name change papers and the paperwork correcting my gender marker have been sent to Merix, I am however still receiving documentation in respects to both Merix Financial and Paradigm Quest with my dead name. I fear that the design of this is to deceive me on the importance of the documents, so that legal issues are not challenged and therefore removing me from my home.
Today I ask that you respect people who are trans and have taken steps to feel safe within themselves. For many it is not a question of “if” they are going to commit suicide it is “when.” It is not a question of “am I going to be homeless?” it is “when will I next have a bed and or meal?” It is not a question of “is this Jon going to be safe?” it is “I hope I am not hurt tonight.” It is not a question of “am I going to be attacked in public?” it is “how will I get away?”
No one regardless of the gender identity, expression, or any other factor should have to ask themselves these questions. Please do your part to ensure that those individuals who identify somewhere on the trans spectrum are treated with the full dignity and respect they deserve.
Reann Legge
I use the pronouns she/her
Reann’s Story 