This May, a 51 year-old transgendered MTF (with no plans for sexual reassignment surgery) has made a smooth start in her working life as Debra Davis. Currently a high-school librarian, she had worked 28 years in the Minneapolis public schools as David Nielsen, but initiated this change in late March to bring her work life into congruence with the rest of her life, where she was already living as a woman.

Ms. Davis, a parent and grandparent, worked with school officials in arranging the transition. Among other things, the school held discussions for students and sent a letter to parents that said in part, "The only things that will change about this employee are how she looks, her name and the pronouns that are used when referring to her."

After her first day working as Debra (May 5), she was quoted by the Associated Press as saying, "I was finally able to work as I have lived for some time now, and as the person I truly am, Debra Davis. As a fully integrated person, I can now spend all of my energy on my job here, helping students learn."

The school principal, Rober McCauley, said, "We support Debra 100 percent. There have been no complaints or opposition within the school so far."

Transgendered people are afforded anti-discrimination protection under Minnesota's Human Rights Act.

Additional Off-Site Information

For more backround and details, check out these Star Tribune stories. Or search their archives for stories about Debra Davis.

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