Elliot Page Comes Out as Transgender
This past week Elliot Page, formally addressed as Ellen Page, came out as transgender to his fans via social media. Page announced his pronouns as they/he, in addition to noting the luck in arriving “at this place in my life.” Page is known for his roles in “Juno” and the current Netflix sensation, “ Umbrella Academy.” Page said in his note to the world, “I’ve been endlessly inspired by so many in the trans community. Thank you for your courage, your generosity and ceaselessly working to make this world a more inclusive and compassionate place. I will offer whatever support I can and continue to strive for a more loving and equal society.”
Courtesy of CBS News
And while this is a major announcement for Page, he expressed fear for releasing this information into the public eye. Although it’s celebratory for those who champion and ally along with the LGBTQ community, there’s no denying the stigma toward the trans community in America and that can be frightening for anyone to experience. Page touched upon this in his note saying, “I am also scared. I’m scared of the invasiveness, the hate, the “jokes” and of violence.” Also, he was sure to include statistics and facts about the reality of being trans in America. As well as the fact that the trans community is made to feel less than socially, politically, economically, and so forth by our leaders and the programs they manifest. Page’s outreach and support for the community won’t go unnoticed. As Variety reports, “Page was one of the most visible out gay actors in Hollywood. The Tuesday announcement further enriches his legacy, and adds him to a small but growing number of out trans creators and stars in Hollywood.” Making it known that while Page has always been a champion for the LGBTQ community, this step in his personal life will neither change that but simply enhance his devotion to the cause.
Page ended his message with, “I love that I am trans. And I love that I am queer. And the more I hold myself close and fully embrace who I am, the more I dream, the more my heart grows and the more I thrive. To all trans people who deal with harassment, self-loathing, abuse and the threat of violence every day: I see you, I love you and I will do everything I can to change the world for the better.”