If this petition reaches the required number of signatures, then I would like the department of education to encourage schools to teach children about identity, including: what a "trans* person" is, and who to go to if a child is concerned about their own gender identity, as well as providing details about "popular" identities, such as male, female, fluid and androgyn. Preferably, this would all be included with the sex education that is mandatory in most state schools at the age of 10.

I believe that this will improve the quality of life for those who are transgendered, or have an alternative gender identity, twofold:

Children who are questioning their gender identity can consolidate who they are and access the help they need as soon as they need it.

By providing information about gender identity, trans* individuals will become more accepted in society and experience less prejudice.

This is an important topic to me on a personal level. I am a trans-man (dfab) living in the UK. I was denied treatment for my dysphoria until I turn eighteen because, by the time that I had reached the stage where it would be a viable choice to receive hormone therapy, anyone under the age of 18 must take hormone blockers for a year before taking cross-sex hormones. I did not know what "gender identity" was until I was 16, after which it took over a year to access therapists that could provide appropriate treatment. Had I discovered was gender identity was even a year before, I could have recieved blockers to prevent puberty from furthering development, and then almost seamlessly recieve cross-sex hormones after the blocker period is over. Not only does this make the physical transition easier, but blockers are entirely reversable and can be backed out of at any time, and less emotional strain is put on the child, especially at a time where that strain is sorely uncalled for.

If this petition reaches its goal, it will be a huge step in the right direction. Currently, there are no lessons on the topic of gender identity which are available in mandatory education. This needs to change.

We can do this, people. One step at a time.