Witnessing Representative Keith Self’s deliberate misgendering of Congresswoman Sarah McBride during a recent House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee hearing was both disturbing and painfully familiar. As an autistic, disabled trans woman deeply involved in activism and advocacy, such blatant hostility from a figure of authority felt like a personal attack—not just against Rep. McBride, but against the very essence of my existence.
During the hearing, Rep. Self referred to Congresswoman McBride as “Mr. McBride,” despite her being the first openly transgender member of Congress. This was no accidental slip; it was a calculated attempt to undermine her dignity and invalidate her identity. Rep. Self’s official biography underscores a commitment to conservative values and traditional family structures, ideologies that often marginalize communities like ours. Such deliberate misgendering is not merely a matter of political stance; it’s an exertion of power aimed at delegitimizing and erasing trans identities.
However, amidst this display of bigotry, there emerged a powerful act of allyship. Democratic Representative Bill Keating promptly intervened, firmly calling out Rep. Self’s disrespect and insisting he address Rep. McBride correctly. Rep. Keating’s immediate and unequivocal support was a beacon of hope, reminding us that while transphobia persists, so does steadfast allyship. His background reflects years of advocacy for human rights and social justice, demonstrating how allies should act: swiftly, clearly, and with unwavering support.
As someone pursuing a master’s in social work and deeply engaged in disability and LGBTQ+ activism, Rep. Keating’s intervention was uplifting. Allyship, especially from those in positions of power, can alter the course of such moments. It challenges oppressive narratives, affirms our humanity, and offers a counterbalance to the relentless discrimination we face daily.
It’s crucial to recognize that Rep. Self’s actions are part of a broader pattern of systemic oppression. His adherence to policies that define gender strictly by biological sex aligns with efforts to erase transgender identities. Such positions, often cloaked under the guise of “traditional values,” serve to marginalize and silence our community.
Reflecting on the incident, I empathize deeply with Rep. McBride. I’ve encountered similar aggression in various settings—medical appointments, job interviews, even casual conversations. The anxiety, fear, and anger she must have felt are all too familiar. Yet, her composure and dignified response were inspiring, showcasing the resilience we often must embody in the face of adversity.
The emotional toll of such interactions on trans individuals cannot be overstated. Deliberate misgendering isn’t just disrespectful; it’s traumatic. Each instance reinforces the false narrative that our identities are illegitimate, chipping away at our sense of safety and belonging. However, allies like Rep. Keating, who confront transphobia head-on, provide a path toward change, healing, and justice.
While Rep. Self’s behavior was deeply hurtful, Rep. Keating’s immediate stand against bigotry offered an essential counterbalance. It was a powerful example of allyship in action, a reminder that there are those who fight alongside us for a more just and inclusive world. Moments like these reaffirm my commitment to advocacy, storytelling, and education.
We must acknowledge that society is actively attempting to erase trans women. I implore everyone to recognize this reality and, at the very least, follow the example set by Representative Keating. Demand respect for trans people. Standing up for someone requires minimal effort, yet its impact is profound. Your voice, no matter how small it may seem, can effect meaningful change and affirm the humanity of those who desperately need to be seen and respected.
Gemma Ortwerth 
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