My Situation

I have been diagnosed with Gender Identity Disorder, and am being medically treated according to well-established standards of care. GID is a matter of personal identity, a sense of what one is, and recognized as a medical condition. It is characterized by a pervasive, life-long identity with the opposite gender. For people who have GID, expressing themselves according to their gender identity is a more natural and honest representation of self than to present themselves according to their birth sex. In other words, a male who has GID will strive to resolve the conflict by taking on female attributes and being known as a woman.

GID is generally regarded as being biologically, rather than environmentally, determined. It is not a mental delusion, a sexual perversion or a willfully adopted mode of behavior. In addition, sexual orientation and gender identity are distinct from each other. Normally, ones sexual orientation remains the same, regardless of medical intervention. There is no known cure for GID. However, it is treated by hormonal and surgical intervention. Treatment does not involve use of psycho-therapeutic drugs. The recommended therapy is counseling, the provision of cross-gender hormonal therapy, a period of cross-gender living, and gender reassignment surgery. Studies indicate overwhelmingly high success rates for persons who live in their new gender role and integrate into the work force. Notably, productivity levels are usually higher after transition.

Becoming a female at the age of XX is difficult, to say the least. I have sought the services and advice of professionals and I am being treated according to a medically recognized and well-established protocol. I have solicited and received the support of my family and friends. All those who are aware of my situation accept me for the person I am. I have not encountered any ill feelings.

There are two issues that may affect my employment; first, there is the fact that my legal change of name has not yet been approved by the court. This process usually takes 2 to 3 months; in the meantime, my legal name is still Xxxx Xxxxxxxxx Xxxxxx, and all my records are in that name.

Second, there is the issue of restrooms. I realize that some may be uncomfortable sharing a restroom with me; while I would hope that this would change over time, I am willing to accept whatever restricitions are felt necessary. If there is a single-occupancy restroom on the premises, it may be the best solution.

Things that are not an issue:

1. I will not need to miss work due to medical issues any more than any other employee.
2. As none of my transition expenses are covered by insurance, I will not increase your insurance costs.
3. I will not be any less productive because of my status; indeed, studies have shown that work output improves for those who undergo this transition.

I understand that I am asking you to jump through some hoops that you would not have to deal with with another employee; I can only say that I would be extremely grateful for the opportunity to work for you, and I would be one of the most loyal employees you have ever had.

Please feel free to ask any questions you may have.

Thank you.