The big Democratic tent to be specific. Even though Janice Covington is politically and socially active in her community the fact she was treated as an other in a coalition that should be inclusive is alarming. But not unexpected.
In April, Covington said she joined the Mecklenburg County Democratic Women's Association, paid her dues and attended her first meeting.
It was at that meeting that she said someone representing themselves from the State Democratic Women's Association told her she could not be a member because of her gender.
"To be told that I would be better suited in the men's auxiliary is really a slap in the face to me," said Covington.
The Democratic Women's Association in Charlotte said this is the first time a transgender woman has applied.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A transgender woman in Mecklenburg County said she wants to join a women’s association but was turned away after the first meeting.
WSOC reported that the Mecklenburg County Democratic Women’s Association said it is now reviewing its membership policy.
“I realize all eyes are on me, what I do it paves the way and sets and example,” said Janice Covington.
Covington said she is a Democrat, blogger and speaker for human rights of the LGBT community and is not shy about who she is. She said she believes being transgendered is not a choice.
With the reinvigoration of
ENDA as an active piece of legislation this act of discrimination shows why it is important for Transgender people to have enumerated protections in all laws. If we are not specifically included acts of "ignorance" such as this will continue. The fact it was in a Democratic group shows bigotry can and will happen when it is not specifically addressed.