Scary, exhilarating Coming Out At WorkBy Anne Marie Pemberton Director of Human Resources XYZZY Information Systems Inc. Mr. Manager, Program Manager/NASA XYZZY Information Systems Inc. July 1997 This is a background letter for XYZZY management and interested parties in the company to advise you about changes in my life and the my intent of remaining employed by XYZZY. This letter is difficult to write, but I wish to be open and honest, and truly hope for your acceptance and understanding. My immediate supervisor, Mr.Manager, Program Manager at NASA has already made you aware of the issue. As you know I've been at NASA Headquarters for going on twelve years. During that time as an employee for ABCDE and with XYZZY since 1994, I've tried my best to do what ever has been ask of me in a professional and honest manner, maintaining solid relations with the client. Re: Client Letters and reviews. Almost two years ago I was diagnosed as Gender Dysphoric; living in the wrong gender role, that of a male on the outside, and that of a female on the inside. This condition having been present all my life, has caused a great deal of confusion and anguish. The classic term for this type of person is Transsexual. I've been taking steps to correct this physical misfortune so that I might live my life as I should, in the gender that I truly am. In order to come to closure with my self, I've undergone extensive psychological therapy, electrolysis to remove facial hair, and hormone/ estrogen treatment as the first phase of my transformation. As the physical changes are taking place, my over-all appearance is also changing with dress, length of hair, choice of clothing, and light makeup. What this all means is that within the year I'll be going full-time as a woman, and I hope to be able to remain employed by XYZZY at either NASA Headquarters ( it might be difficult with so many people who know me as Michael ), or at another site where I can transition on the job as though I'm a new employee which, in effect, will be the case.
It's very important to me that my employer knows about my life. I hope and pray that there'll be understanding, and acceptance by my co-workers and management. I realize that some people will feel uncomfortable about me, and I can understand that. I'm more than happy and prepared to talk to folks about "Transsexualism", and issues regarding the work place. Please feel free to ask me any questions that I'm sure will arise from this letter. My analyst who is a gender specialist is available to meet with management as well as groups of employees.. As a member of the Transgendered Community and local support groups I have access to considerable information which I would be glad to provide for management and anyone in the company who wishes to know more about gender issues. Sincerely, Michael L. Pemberton ( Anne Marie ) Attachments:
1. Letter addressed to Whom It May Concern from Dr.Analyst Addendum: Personal note from Marie to TGF Readers My meeting with the Boss went splendidly and he was very accepting, and thanked me for being so open and honest with him. He has assured me that he'll be there for me if I need some additional support,or a shoulder to cry on. He doesn't believe that the company, or the government bosses will have a problem, and I've assure him that I'm more that prepared to talk and answer any questions that I can. I'm planning on going full-time after the first of the year once my legal name change has been completed.
The key's to anyone's sucessful transition ( from my vantage point ) are
1. A plan, and more plan. Anyway my boss is a real sweet man. Not too many around these days. |