Hi my name is Benbe, my sister recently threatened me with calling me by my deadname so can i have some uplifting words please? Today and yesterday have been brutal 😳
Benbe sat down on their best friend’s bed. They let out a long sigh.
Their friend looked very concerned. “You look rough, babe, what’s wrong?”
- “My sister started threatening to call me by my deadname.”
- “Oh my god, Benbe, I’m so sorry. I don’t understand why she would do this to you, but you don’t deserve any of it. She should have your back instead of the cruel thing she’s doing, using the fact that you’re trans to taunt and threaten you. It’s not your fault, though. This has everything to do with whatever she’s getting from the power of being able to threaten you, and nothing to do with you.”
- “Today and yesterday have been so brutal, I swear.” Their eyes were watery.
Benbe’s friend leaned in to invite a hug, and Benbe was glad for the offer. Their friend gave them a good squeeze.
“Benbe, honey, I just want you to know - you have every right to be called whatever you want and however makes you feel respected. It’s your name and your body, and you owe nothing to your sister or anyone else. I don’t know why she’s flexing her power to hurt you like that, but it’s wrong. I know who you are, I know your gender, I know your name, Benbe, and in case you doubt yourself sometimes, let me tell you, it’s all real. The name you choose is your real name. The pronouns you choose are your real pronouns. I am your friend, and I love and respect you for all of who you are.”