Here is what you need to know in a nutshell:

If any poll worker gives you grief, either present this to them or read it aloud to them. They must comply. If they do not, talk to the person in charge of the polling place.

(The following is courtesy of the National Center For Transgender Equality)

INFORMATION FOR POLL WORKERS AND ELECTION OFFICIALS

The voter you are talking to is transgender, meaning that their gender identity is different than the gender that was recorded on their birth certificate. Transgender people may not have been able to update their IDs to reflect their identity for a number of reasons. This is not illegal. As long as the relevant voter data (usually the name and address) matches one of the acceptable forms of ID, the voter has the right to vote. Please do not be distracted by gender presentation when you are evaluating a voter’s identity and eligibility to vote.

Here is other information that might be useful to you:

■ Gender discrepancies on ID are not a valid reason to deny a regular ballot. Transgender voters may have ID that indicates a different gender than what they look like. They may not have had the opportunity to update their ID yet, or may not be able to do so in your state. This does not mean their ID is invalid or fraudulent for voting.

■ Different clothing, makeup or hairstyle on an ID photo is not a valid reason to deny a regular ballot. Voters may look different today than on their photo ID for many reasons. The photo on an ID may show a different gender presentation. As long as you can identify the voter from their picture, the ID is valid for voting.

■ A voter’s transgender status and medical history is private. Although you may be curious or confused about a voter’s appearance, asking personal questions is offensive, inappropriate, and not relevant to their right to vote.

■ Transgender voters are not doing anything wrong or trying to deceive you—they are just being themselves. Transgender people have the right to vote just like everyone else, and it is your responsibility to ensure they are able to do so without hassle. If confusion about this person’s right to vote persists, please speak to an election supervisor or election judge in your area to resolve any remaining questions.

These are the basics you will want to know if hassled by poll workers. Other things you should do before going to the polls in just 5 short weeks.

Verify you are registered here. If not, register here. And bone up on your voting rights in your state here as they will vary depending on where you live.

As Transgender Americans we cannot afford to be silent, there is too much at stake to sit this out.

Here is a great little video : -)

Rachael Rose Luckey

Rachael Rose Luckey is an equal rights activist, with special emphasis on the LGB/Trans Movements, living in Los Angeles. She is an officer of the Stonewall Democratic Club, participates on varying community committees and is considered the highest ranking elected Transgender political figure in Los Angeles County. (The views expressed are solely my own and do not represent the views of any political party, organization or candidate/elected official)