What If?

A Suggestion For Unity

Next, let us realize the fact the regardless of our particular area of lifestyle, we are all, transgendered or spouses/partners of transgendered persons, and have common needs, desires and difficulties.

Finally, admit to the fact that no single organization could ever possibly meet the multitude of needs presented by such a large and diverse community.

Now, let us play "What if?" What if these three general areas of the community combined to create a single "clearinghouse" for TG information, referral and support? And, suppose that such a clearinghouse remained apolitical with regard to those whom it represented and sought to serve?

Such an organization does, in fact exist. And, it works. On a local scale, C.O.T.A. (The Central Oklahoma Transgender Alliance) represents the above scenario. Imagine the possibilities of such an arrangement on a national or perhaps international scale?

If we can accept that there are three "general" areas of transgenderism in this community, it would appear that Tri-Ess, Renaissance and AEGIS could well represent those interests. Admittedly, there are other areas of need, particularly spouses and partners, which should also be considered.

If the three organizations listed above, Tri-Ess, Renaissance and AEGIS, were to join forces to actually serve the TG community, with no malice or reservations, and with a common bond, there is no limit to the progress that could be made.

What about IFGE (The International Foundation for Gender Education)? This organization already serves as an informal clearinghouse and referral service. Over the course of the last year or so, IFGE has undergone some tremendous changes, and still remains rather fluid in its structure. This history, combined with its large presence, would appear to make it well suited for a new role in the TG community.

Suppose that IFGE was no longer a "membership" based organization. Suppose, that it formally adopted the duties it has already been performing? What if IFGE became the "official" clearinghouse and referral service, as well as lobbying representative, of the transgender community?

Now, the stage is set for the three national groups, Tri-Ess, AEGIS and Renaissance to form an official alliance and pact of cooperation and communication. A national organization for spouses and partners could be a fourth member of a "new" IFGE. This national organization for spouses and partners would be much like S.P.I.C.E.; however, it would be an ongoing support organization and a separate entity.

These four general support organizations would send a set number of board members to the "new" IFGE board. Each of the four would have equal representation. From among the board members, they would elect their own chairperson and other officers.

ICTLEP (International Conference on Transgender Law & Employment Policy) could become an ancillary function of the umbrella organization. This group would continue to perform the vital function of education and lobbying on numerous issues, such as employment, custody and divorce.

IFGE would cease to be a "membership" based organization. The present organizational structure of IFGE would become the staffing of the clearinghouse and referral service. Financial support for IFGE would continue to come from its bookstore and publication as well as mandatory contributions from the four member organizations. This contribution to the umbrella organization could be collected as a "surcharge" on the existing membership fees.

The quarterly publication of IFGE would become the "official" publication of the community. The board would be responsible for its content and to ensure that the publication fairly represented the needs and members of the transgender community. Advertising, combined with subscription fees would have to support the costs of the staff and production of the magazine. A subscription to the magazine by members of the community at large would be encouraged, yet not required.

It is understood that IFGE currently has a paid staff as well as office space. These expenses would somehow have to be met. Along with the membership surcharge fee, magazine income, and bookstore sales, the fund raising efforts would have to continue.

If the umbrella organization were to send out a newsletter to all members, it could be mailed, in bulk, to the member organizations and included with their mailings.

There are other sizable organizations representing members of the transgender community which are not a part of any of the groups mentioned. Examples would be: MAGGIE (Mid-America Gender Groups Information Exchange); ETVC, Transsexual Menace and ReCast, to name a few. It is hoped that somehow, these organizations would be invited to participate.

These are only general ideas and are in no way comprehensive of the numerous details or financial concerns. Yet, one thing is very clear, if we, as a community cannot go together, we never get where we are going at all.