Highlighting the plight of transsexuals in Lebanon

In its issue of March 18, As Safir daily newspaper shed some light on silent suffering of transsexuals in Lebanon who feel out of tune with their biological gender or previous physical form. Confusing it with homosexuality, The article of the newspaper explained that the Lebanese society still largely confuses transsexuals with homosexuals and remain intolerant to both (with the exception of human rights activists or supportive organizations). There is a wide-spread stereotyping of people who admit their transgender reality. The are usually faced with rejection even from their immediate family, and are often refused work. Such rejection, As Safir went on to explain, complicates and renders their life very difficult, and results in serious psychological drawbacks, and eventually could even lead to prostitution. The newspaper interviewed Rami, a young man in his twenties, who recounted his transformation from a woman to a man. Rami described the relief and harmony he now experiences after the surgical transgender operation, but which is not yet completed. He said he believes that he is more fortunate than other transgender persons who face many problems and difficulties. (As Safir, March 18, 2016)