Breaking Barriers: My Journey as a 53-year-old Biological Woman
Updated: Apr 7
I would like to share this with everyone. As a 53-year-old biological woman, I remember when men used to complain about women wanting to compete in men's sports categories and jobs. I personally faced discrimination in high school when I expressed my desire to play football.
Although I was never forced or blackmailed into changing in the boys' locker room, I faced disapproval from my peers and teammates for choosing football. People suggested I become a cheerleader, play soccer, join the band, or participate in color guard, but my passion and skills were geared towards football.
Crushing Glass Ceilings: From Forklift Operator to Trailblazer
Later, as an adult, my male coworkers frowned upon me for becoming a forklift operator, citing my biological gender as a reason. This inspired me to prove that, regardless of gender, I could perform my duties just as well as any male counterpart. I eventually became a licensed equipment trainer, advancing to a commercial boomlift operator. But- there’s always a but - when I aimed to move up further and become a tool setter, I was denied the opportunity under the assumption that a woman couldn't handle lifting 150 pounds. To avoid a potential lawsuit, they assigned a petite woman to the position, who only operated the remote for the crane. Despite knowing I could handle the weight, the men admitted they were concerned I would "show them up."
Shifting Gears: This Hill
Though my body suffered, and I fought for fair pay to provide for my two children, times have changed. Women now have their own sports and job opportunities, with efforts towards equal pay. It seems that some men are envious because they can't measure up in their own domain, attempting to take back what has been created for women. They argue against equality, claiming women don't need it. This perspective disappoints and degrades women on every level. If any biological woman cannot recognize this, I believe they may need mental help.
It appears that some men dislike powerful women, viewing it as a power trip and control issue. I stand in solidarity with April Hutchinson, Riley Gaines, and any other woman not receiving the recognition they rightfully deserve. It's disheartening that trauma is often caused by men, and the justice system often proves ineffective until it's too late. Mere paperwork won't bring back lives or undo the damage, but this hill we’re climbing together?
I’ll die on it.
