TG issues in the news
I read an article on cnn.com about a criminal, Robert Kosilek, who wants a sex-change (mtf) while in prison. Ze was convicted in 1990 for killing zir wife. Three years later, ze legally changed zir name to Michelle and has since been embroiled in lawsuits against the Correctional Department in order to obtain a sex-change. While I don't think ze should be banned from getting one, I don't see why it has to come out of the taxpayers' pockets. Ze should have to pay for it, zirself. I don't care if ze is in jail. I understand the argument that it is a medically necessary procedure. However, if I currently have to pay out of my own pocket for surgeries and treatment, why should prisoners be held to a different standard? The Correctional Department's position is that granting the sex-change would make Kosilek a target in prison for sexual assault. Honestly, I don't think ze could be much more of a target than ze already is; ze has already begun hormone therapy and has long hair and feminine clothing. I just don't know what to think. I can understand why security would be a big issue from the Correctional Dept's point of view (just being trans in general, not even considering surgeries). From what I read, the experts can't even agree on whether or not Kosilek is trans, although the only experts who say "no" are on the Correctional Dept's side, so ze probably is trans. I think the part I'm having the most trouble w/ is the idea of prisoners having more rights than free citizens. I can easily see people committing crimes to get thrown into prison just to have surgery. Think I'm being outrageous and extreme? When pressed, people will do outlandish things. I mean, let's face it, this isn't cheap. For someone who isn't capable of making ends meet, incarceration may not seem so unappealing. I'm expecting you guys to comment with your thoughts on this issue.