December kicks off with the Oscar-nominated actor addressing his gender identity

Elliot Page, previously known as Ellen Page, discloses to millions on Instagram his gender identity and more. Starring in The Umbrella Academy, Inception, Juno, and more, the queer icon addresses being non-binary and transgender through Instagram on December first. 

Page has described his gender identity as neither man nor woman and uses he/they pronouns. To clarify, gender identity is the internal sense of one’s own gender. It is not to be confused with sexual orientation, one’s personal preference(s) in attraction. 

“I’m happy about the human in him to recognize his humanity in that way, that he wants to live an authentic life, very beautiful,” Spanish teacher, Sra. Alva said. “It will help others see that value in living their authentic life, and hopefully they will be more courageous to do that.” 

Coming out as gay in 2014, he opens a new door this year by speaking up about his gender expression. Friends and fans shower the star in support alongside celebrities such as The Umbrella Academy cast and his wife, Emma Portner. 

The actor shares his happiness of being queer while prevalent of the toxicity toward the community. He discusses harmful jokes, insensitivity, hate crime, and more. Page is optimistic but is keen on making his followers aware of the painful reality trans/ non-binary people face. 

“I don’t like all the hate and toxicity to the people in the transgender community,” freshman, Esther Derosa said. “I think other people [need] to respect them and if they don’t want to that’s fine but they don’t need to make a whole deal about [it].” 

While the adoration and love toward Elliot are seen, there are still acts of hatred unheard in the shadows. Anti-transgender killings significantly spiked this year, making it one of the deadliest for trans Americans alongside numerous acts both reported and silenced. 

Transgender citizens, specifically colored, have fallen victim to bias and fatal violence. These numbers continue to sway as reporting of such incidents aren’t mandatory in the United States.

“i feel like its unnecessary the amount of hatred that people give to transgender and non-binary people is honestly unneeded and these people are humans like us so they shouldnt be treated differently,” sophomore Cierra Hayles said. 

Elliot appreciates being able to come out and having come so far. Despite that, he takes a moment to acknowledge trans people who are abused, harassed, threatened, and self-loathing. 

Referencing the Human Rights Campaign, he mentioned 40% of trans adults reported of attempting suicide. Page vows to stay vocal about the demeaning negativity given to trans people.

“I don’t find it terribly surprising that the suicide attempt rate in the trans community is around 40%. I think the misunderstanding, misinformation, stigmas, and phobias surrounding the queer, but especially trans community, must making transitioning–or the even the desire to transition prior to beginning–feel like a terrifying, isolating, and lonely experience,” school counsilor, Samantha Davis said. 

Of course, every transgender person is viable for facing discrimination, family rejection, neglect, abuse, and more when entering the world. And so, hundreds of thousands give this real-life hero the best of wishes and congratulations. 

Under the spotlight and thriving, Elliot Page is in the hearts of many and continues to inspire a change of public prejudice. 

Written by Stacey Martinez  | Graphic Designed by Stacey Martinez

Published December 16, 2020 | ePathfinder | Feature