I’ll let another speak for me in this section. The following are excerpts from one of my references who is part of the leadership of TRUUST, the UU Transgender Religious professionals group:
-Matt is one of the most earnest, trustworthy people you will ever meet. He is honorable and open. When there is a disagreement you can count on him to stay at the table with an open heart and open ears.
-Matt is unafraid to explore his own identity. He is willing to be vulnerable and invites others to do the same.
-Matt always asks curious questions and leans into the cultural realities of race, patriarchy, sexuality and gender, and consciously explores how his identity plays a part in the system.
-Matt consistently makes sure all voices were heard and included in a discussion or activity making good use of his privilege to create opportunities for others.
-Matt has been an ally without questioning the reality or validity of the ask. He does what is asked. He later takes time to deepen his understanding with those people who are accountability partners and with those he has close relationships.
I have been more humbled by this recommendation than just about anything I have ever experienced. I have the utmost respect for the person that wrote it, and to have my efforts received in this way gives me validation that I am at least moving in the right direction in terms of decentering myself and making room for all.
And…this work is NEVER done.
