After revealing herself as gay back in 2014 and having had an unannounced marriage to dancer girlfriend, Emma Portner, in 2018, actor Elliot Page is making revelation anew by proclaiming to be a transgender.
The Oscar-nominated Canadian actor was formerly known as Ellen Page, who rose to fame after starring in her breakthrough film, Juno (2007). Her reputation was further cemented after appearing in blockbuster hits, like X-Men and Inception, and more recently, in Netflix’s Umbrella Academy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7IpsWkeSiE
Out in the Open
In various social media posts, Page announced the momentous transition. In it, he claims that his name will now be “Elliot” and will adopt the pronouns “he/she” moving forward.
He opened his announcement with gratefulness to those who support her throughout his “journey.” Who, as he claims, harbor the qualities that make this place a “more inclusive and compassionate place.” An ideal which he is willing to support for a “more loving and equal society.”
A Frightening Declaration
While thankful and joyous about his monologue, Page displays concern over the promulgation. In particular, by citing the risk that comes with being open about his true identity, which comes with its own naysayers. One he explicitly states as causing him dread.
“My joy is real, but it is also fragile. The truth is, despite feeling profoundly happy right now and knowing how much privilege I carry, I am also scared”.
Subsequently relating it to real-life repercussions that the transgender community suffers, especially the Black or Latinx trans women.
“The statistics are staggering. The discrimination towards trans people is rife, insidious and cruel, resulting in horrific consequences. In 2020 alone it has been reported that at least 40 transgender people have been murdered, the majority of which were Black and Latinx trans women”.
Somebody to Blame
Finding injustice in the treatment, Elliot points blame especially towards political leaders and influencers whom he accused of wrongful doing. Specifically, by them wanting to “criminalize trans health care” and “deny the right to exist” as well as the “hostility towards the trans community.”
Having the resolve of steel, Page continues her pronouncement with sentiments of loving being a “transgender” and a “queer.” Further backing the idea by expressing how she grows emotionally and spiritually by fully accepting himself.
Drawing sympathy to his fellow transgenders, Page claims support to those who encounter the hampering effect of going out in the open. Such as those getting a first-hand experience with self-loathing through harassment, abuse, and the threat of violence. Raising the issue in order to express his love and the commitment to make it better with his power.
Image used courtesy of E! News/YouTube Screenshot