Liberal Works

Tag: Equality

  • Transgender Identity is Self-Evident: Informed-Consent is a Contract

    Transgender Identity is Self-Evident: Informed-Consent is a Contract

    My identity and rights are self-evident. I do not require approval from the state, a psychologist licensed by the state, or any person whatsoever.

    The purpose of government is to protect liberty. Because rights are natural and inalienable, they are not derived from an external body of people, but from our humanity.

    What is Natural Law and Natural Rights?

    Natural law is a philosophical and ethical theory that posits the existence of universal moral principles inherent in nature, discoverable through reason and conscience. It suggests that these principles are objective and independent of man-made laws (also known as “positive” laws) or social conventions.

    John Locke, a prominent figure in the development of natural law theory, argued that individuals possess certain inalienable natural rights, such as the right to life, liberty, and property. These rights predate any form of government and are inherent to human beings by virtue of their nature. Locke contended that the primary purpose of government is to protect these natural rights.

    If a government fails to fulfill this purpose, Locke argued, the people have the right to revolt and establish a new form of government. His ideas profoundly influenced the development of modern political thought, including the American Declaration of Independence. The Bill of Rights serves to enshrine these natural rights within the U.S. Constitution.

    Understanding Sex and Gender in 2025

    While sex and gender are often considered distinct concepts, there is growing recognition of an overlap that may account for traits that do not fit neatly into a binary. For example, brain scans have shown that transgender women exhibit cognitive patterns similar to cisgender women, demonstrating a neurobiological basis for their gender identity.

    Sex typically refers to biological characteristics, including chromosomes, hormones, and anatomy, that typically place individuals into categories such as male, female, or intersex. However, it’s important to acknowledge that these categories are not always clear-cut. Some individuals assigned male at birth may exhibit more feminine or androgynous physical characteristics.

    Personally, I have always felt a disconnect between my assigned sex and my internal sense of self. Despite being assigned male at birth, I’ve always felt more aligned with the female gender. This feeling has persisted throughout my life, deepening with maturity.

    Early on, I began a soft transition, exploring my gender expression through changes in appearance and behavior. This journey deepened my understanding of my own identity and reinforced the incongruence I felt with my assigned sex.

    The Intersex Condition

    Intersex individuals may be born with biological characteristics that do not fit neatly into traditional male or female categories. Additionally, recent research suggests that variations in brain development and hormone levels may contribute to transgender experiences. While the exact causes of transgender identity are not fully understood, these findings suggest that biology plays a role in shaping gender identity, even if it is not the sole determinant.

    It’s important to note that many individuals may have subtle variations in their biological sex characteristics that may not be readily apparent. I, for example, have not undergone extensive genetic testing. However, my experience highlights the complex interplay between biology and gender identity.

    The Hostile Social Climate

    My official transition in 2024, which included starting hormone replacement therapy, unfortunately coincided with a heightened social climate of hostility towards transgender individuals. This heightened tension further emphasized the need for a stronger social and legal framework to protect the rights of transgender people.

    This experience shifted my perspective on the role of government. While I previously held more libertarian views, I began to recognize the need for a more active government role in ensuring the protection of individual liberties and the prevention of discrimination.

    Government is the Immune System

    Just as the immune system protects the body from harmful pathogens, government should function to protect the liberties and rights of its citizens. Crime, in this analogy, can be considered a pathogen that disrupts the social order.

    This concept of government as an “immune system” draws inspiration from the work of Dr. Bruce Lipton, a biologist who has pioneered research in epigenetics. His book, “The Biology of Belief,” explores the profound impact of our beliefs and environment on our biological functioning.

    The Informed-Consent Model of Healthcare

    Transgender individuals experience a feeling of incongruence between their sex assigned at birth and their internal sense of gender. While medical professionals play a crucial role in diagnosing and providing care, the decision to pursue gender-affirming treatment ultimately rests with the individual.

    The informed-consent model provides a strong ethical framework for transgender healthcare. It emphasizes the importance of open communication and shared decision-making between the patient and their healthcare provider. This model ensures that patients understand the potential risks and benefits of any proposed treatment before making informed choices.

    Furthermore, it helps prevent the imposition of burdensome requirements that can delay or deny necessary care. For example, some states have enacted laws requiring multiple letters of support from mental health professionals, lengthy waiting periods before initiating treatment, or even forced sterilization as a condition for receiving gender-affirming surgery.

    These requirements create significant barriers to care, causing unnecessary delays, increased mental health distress, and even forcing some individuals to seek unsafe or ineffective treatments outside the healthcare system.

    Informed consent can be viewed as a legal contract between the patient and the provider, with clear expectations and shared responsibilities. In a free society, transgender people have a right to be heard and declare their identity based on what they know internally. This right must be respected as any other.

    Balancing Rights and Responsibilities

    While classical liberalism emphasizes individual liberty, it’s crucial to recognize that these liberties must be balanced with the responsibility to ensure that all individuals have access to essential healthcare services.

    Government intervention may be necessary to ensure that transgender individuals can access the healthcare they need. This could include measures such as mandating insurance coverage for gender-affirming care and ensuring that publicly funded healthcare providers offer competent transgender care.

    While respecting the right of healthcare providers to conscientiously object to providing certain services, it is crucial to ensure that transgender individuals have access to care without undue burden or discrimination.

    Conclusion

    By embracing the principles of natural law and promoting a just and equal society, we can create a world where transgender individuals can live authentically and access the healthcare they need.

  • Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminism (TERF): A Fascist Ideology

    Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminism (TERF): A Fascist Ideology

    A powerful defense against Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminist (TERF) ideology is not feeding their energetic vacuum by our sometimes-enraged response. The cruelty that transgender people face is sometimes below the level of civilized discourse that I’ve seen in a while. Hence, TERFs seek attention.

    TERF Ideology is Fascist

    Parading themselves as “XX” and employing similar terms of pure-supremacy are rooted in outdated, simplistic biology. Such rhetoric aligns with the conservative right, which often resists progress and change based on new findings. These attitudes exhibit characteristics of fascism.

    Fascism is a strong word but fits well with TERF doctrine. It’s fascist because they see themselves as morally superior due to simplistic genetic claims. This ideology is built on fabricated, misinformed science; they find a way to justify their hate and discriminate against innocent lives.

    Moreover, fascism often relies on a scapegoat or enemy to divert attention. They see trans people as a kind of threat to the safety and well-being of cisgender people, whether straight or homosexual. It’s amusing that just 30 years ago, however, homosexuality was the dangerous threat that had to be reckoned with. It was feared that gay men and lesbian women might ‘influence’ others in restrooms or locker rooms, potentially ‘turning’ them homosexual.

    Since then, gay and lesbian acceptance has improved greatly. In 2015, the Obergefell v. Hodges decision by the Supreme Court fortified marriage equality under the law, lessening the stigma.

    Transgender People are the New Villain

    Now, the villain is the transgender person: the blanket characterization of a stereotype in which almost every member is a sexual pervert who can’t be trusted in a civilized private space.

    This invalidation and ridicule are beneath any person of dignity. I am baffled and deeply concerned. It makes me wonder what might be truly going on within these individuals.

    There are no doubt additional psychological and spiritual issues inside a person if they go out of their way to demean others who aren’t bothering them. Let me make myself clear: there is no material threat to anyone if a transgender person just wants to live their life in peace and mind their own business. They deserve to be treated fairly with respect. I am tired of watching the hate.

    Extreme and outrageous belittling is a product of a bully, and a bully is someone who has no moral strength. They push others down because it makes them feel good. The only rational conclusion for what is going on inside the TERF coalition is a deep-seated insecurity, a gap that must be filled.

    The LGBTQ community is unfortunately split. The fight for inclusion and acceptance has devolved into several divisive subcultures of opposing ideologies. These factions are at war with each other, and there is seemingly no end in sight.

    A Path Forward

    The solution to ending this hateful discrimination, which fuels division into pathetic subgroups, lies in standing firmly on principles of integrity. We must all assert our personal sovereignty as individuals, whether transgender or cisgender allies, and stand together for equality.

    We must assert our personal sovereignty as individuals, whether transgender or cisgender ally. We must all assert our personal sovereignty as individuals, whether transgender or cisgender allies, and stand together for equality. We do not live in a pure democracy (which is tyranny), but a democratic republic. While the distinction between a pure democracy and a democratic republic may require further explanation for some readers, it’s important to understand that we have universal standards under the Constitution and Bill of Rights.

    As a nation, the United States has evolved very much over the years. We defeated (or at least substantially lessened) the effects of racism, misogyny, and other kinds of discrimination from public life. Thus, we can do the same for transgender rights! We must continue this progress by advocating for policies that protect transgender rights and by fostering a society of respect and inclusion for all.

  • Ignoring Your Enemies is a Victorious Achievement

    Ignoring Your Enemies is a Victorious Achievement

    Sometimes, the most effective approach to achieving justice is to deny your enemies the attention they crave. If people hate you, then live your best life, do what is in your heart, and only defend yourself when necessary.

    In a world where social media takes up our attention, where passionate arguments happen on places like X, it’s important to remember that conflicts may be necessary in brief, but extended strings of laborious back-and-forth are a waste of time.

    Instead, focus on yourself. Pour your energy into what matters most to you. Live your best life, fulfill what is most sacred and desired in your life path. By doing so, you unlock the key to the most ethical revenge on your opposition.

    I have learned to turn away from hostile people. Especially as a transgender woman, there’s a whole subculture of infighting between transgender rights activists and conservatives, etc.

    These people are on a constant rampage of mudslinging with no end in sight. Sure, it’s important to defend yourself.

    Advocating for civil liberties like transgender rights and equality is one of the missions here. However, there is a fine line between correcting individuals or resisting governments that cross the line and wasting your time in a bottomless pit of rage.

    When to Pick Your Battles

    There is a time to boldly speak out and defend yourself or others; there is also a time to be silent because opening your mouth will make you a fool. Knowing when to engage is called wisdom.

    I am reminded of the ancient scriptures which have universal truths. Despite their association with religion, the gems in such texts are pure truths based on principles, and not dogma.

    Proverbs 26:4 says:

    Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

    The next verse is peculiar because it appears to contradict, but there is a hidden meaning in the whole. Proverbs 26:5 says:

    Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.

    So, the first verse says you should not answer a fool according to his folly because you will lower yourself to his level and become like him. Still, the second verse states that you should answer a fool according to his folly because by doing so, you save him from himself. You actually help him see his own wrongdoing.

    What does this mean? It means there is a time and place to engage in conflict and a time to refrain. Wisdom is the ability to discern how to apply knowledge, when to speak up, and when to remain silent. Thus, you can also waste your time and energy.

    The Transgender Fight

    When I scroll through X or YouTube I see a constant battle of pro-trans warriors against anti-trans bigots. It’s incredibly disheartening and energy draining to view. It’s the TERFs or conservatives on one side verses transgender individuals and their allies on the other, and it’s ridiculous.

    It’s immature to constantly sling mud at each other. I understand that the aggressors here are anti-trans factions, but those in defense also have a responsibility to act with noble character.

    I am sick of watching this petulant circus. Some of the advocacy––and rebellious indignation––is necessary to expand awareness, defeat discriminatory laws, and educate the public about transgender reality. However, it is pathetic to see YouTube channels, podcasts, and X profiles created explicitly for the purpose of trying to dismantle transgender existence.

    A Principled Approach to Bigotry

    The intelligent method to overcome this rage-fueled assault on transgender lives is by standing on high moral ground: institutionally, socially, psychologically, governmentally, and spiritually. What I mean here is we must take the superior road and not descend to their level. Transphobia is prejudice-based misinformation that often leads to bullying.

    Bullying has a solution, which is to stand up to the bully. You do so with tact and wisdom. You don’t feed the bully ammunition or fight fire with fire because it results in a mud wrestling contest where everyone is dirty and spent. There is a better way.

    I suggest boldly taking to social media, speaking your mind, and occasionally commenting on anti-trans rhetoric––but don’t get consumed by anger. Nancy Mace is only able to keep saying stupid, hateful things because her followers are ignorant and arrogant. Nonetheless, history does repeat, which is their demise.

    A Cycle in History

    They tried eliminating homosexuals in the 90s and 2000s until a major defeat in 2015, when Obergefell v. Hodges set the precedent that recognized same-sex marriage as constitutional in the U.S. Since then, bigotry against them has fairly subsided.

    Before this time, conservatives and the religious right were on a campaign to paint all gays and lesbians as destroyers of the nuclear family, a cancer that would allegedly destroy society.

    Gay men and lesbian women were seen as dangerous in private areas like restrooms and locker rooms. It was feared they would spread their alleged immorality and infect the others. Straight women were afraid that lesbians might adversely influence their inclinations by their mere presence. The stigma was great.

    Moreover, the ungodly assault on transgender people is no different. Transgender is now the enemy whereas before it was homosexuality. The same principled approach that defeated homophobia must be employed today: righteous advocacy, societal support, and institutional standards that punish bigotry and uphold equality and acceptance.

    As a Classical liberal, I understand that private individuals have their rights to differ, but core fundamental rights to life, liberty, and property must be upheld. There is no place in government buildings for the kind of exclusionary discrimination that is seemingly okay under the oncoming Trump administration.

    The enemies of equality under the Fourteenth Amendment have awoken a sleeping giant. Their hatred, bigotry, and false accusations based on inaccurate, misrepresented biology and fabricated pseudo-science must be confronted head-on.

  • Welcome to Liberal Works

    Welcome to Liberal Works

    Greetings, I am Leona.

    I created this website to promote classical liberalism and promote the cherished freedoms that we all enjoy as humans of this world.

    Here, I will discuss the various topics that are in the news today, along with my thoughts and insights. I will share my journey as a transgender woman and bravely stand for all civil liberties, which make us thrive as Americans.

    I will share my life’s aspirations, woes, and hardships, which includes a potential run for U.S. House of Representatives.

    I will say what needs to be said in a world where ignorance and authoritarian governments gain control, where culture wars shut out the weak, and where the minority rages in silence.

    I will carry the torch of Liberty, a glorious and virtuous cause.

    There is a beautiful world surrounding us. We can go as far as we allow our visions to lead us. The American Dream is not dead, but dormant with potential. It’s waiting for the courage and hope of individuals to manifest their destiny for the good of us all.

    Hot Topics to not shy away from

    I will not avoid the “hot button” issues that affect our day. The most dishonorable, boring thing a person can do is beat around the bush on contentious subjects; I will tell you what I think.

    I base my policy decisions on a principled approach to Classical liberalism, rooted in the philosophy of natural law. Though I may change my mind from time-to-time to avoid being closed-minded or ignorant, my method involves applying values to a dynamic set of truth and facts. My aim is liberty, justice, and equality for all.