Mentor Text L: "An Oral History of Early Trans Internet"

By: Henry Giardina

Prior to the internet, it was difficult for trans folks to find their community and speak freely about themselves and their feelings. Companies like AOL would often restrict the topics that could be talked about, and it was not until the internet came along that trans people could find people like them so that they could have a supportive community. This article is written to an audience that may not understand the struggles that trans people face when trying to be themselves. It talks of the dangers of trying to find someone to have love and or sex with as a trans person, as it is often dangerous and violent. To find people like them, trans people had to use bulletin boards and things like craigslist which were extremely risky. The text presents the internet as a good thing that made the lives of trans people easier, which gives it a positive yet educational vibe. The main message is that trans people have a tough time feeling accepted and finding their community, but technological advances such as the internet have made it easier for the trans community.