Editor’s note: The following column is in response to recent letters and guest columns about J.M Sorrell’s May 3 column “Misogyny as entertainment and entitlement.”

By J.M. SORRELL

I was a guest columnist for the Daily Hampshire Gazette for many years before I became a monthly columnist. When I wrote my first monthly column on Oct. 5, 2018, I did not want to squander the moment. I knew that Question 3 would be decided upon a few weeks later, and I knew that voting yes or no was confusing, so I used the column to encourage readers to support it.

I wrote, “Unfortunately, bigotry led a group that calls itself ‘Keep MA Safe’ to collect over 32,000 signatures to get a referendum on the ballot this November to repeal the [trans rights] law. It is imperative that we take this seriously and vote YES to keep the rights in place. At its core, this issue is about basic compassion, dignity and fairness. The future, quality of life and safety of Massachusetts transgender residents are at risk. On Nov. 6, Vote YES on Question 3.”

I was a vocal supporter of Question 3 as a natural extension of the previous 12-plus years of allyship. I was in the inaugural group of 25 certified trainers from around the country to teach LGBT cultural competence to people serving older adults. I worked with staff in hospitals and other health care facilities all over New England to give dignity and quality care to lesbian, gay and trans patients, and I led workshops at several Transcending Boundaries conferences. Over the course of four decades, I have been actively committed to equality for lesbians and gay men.

In 2012, when I wrote a 30-year history booklet for Noho Pride, I ensured inclusion in my interviews. Since 2004, I have served many trans and gender queer couples as their wedding officiant. They have expressed feeling affirmed as I use the language and tone they want and need for their ceremony. I have written many columns decrying violence against LGBTQ people.

This is who I am.

While some readers know my history of service, some saw my recent column in isolation and jumped to assumptions. I am well aware of the statistics regarding violence against trans people and the rates of suicide ideation. I have taught people about it so they can tap into their empathy and give good care. I am also cognizant of emotional and physical violence against women throughout the world.

A friend of mine who is a social justice leader likes to say, “Want an ally? Be an ally.” That is how I have approached my support for the rights and dignity of trans people. I will always advocate for fairness and justice and allyship/accomplice work for all who need it.

As a result of the way I have been characterized and have somehow failed to elicit understanding in my recent column, I will refrain from writing about LGBTQ+ issues or misogyny for the newspaper. Advocating for a kind, just and equitable world are too important to me, and it is regrettable that my intention did not align with expressed responses from our community.

J.M. Sorrell is a monthly columnist for The Daily Hampshire Gazette.

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