Jennifer Lee Jackson – Mormon and Woman
I was actually looking from some funny (and relatively clean) jokes and stories to post up when I found this interesting article about Jennifer Lee Jackson, a transgender woman who is now full time. That story at NPR is at this link here and an article at SLMETRO is here.
What makes her story different is that she’s the first Mormon I’ve ever read about who’s transitioned. Her story sounds like many of ours who are trans (whether Male-to-Female or Female-to-Male). But her being a part of the Mormon church is an interesting piece that is well worth reading. Sadly, she was ex-communicated. This is also a common theme among many of us who are transgender and belong to a faith community of some type. Generally speaking, we get the axe. I’m not sure why this is. If one were a Christian, say, then decided that Christianity was simply groundless and then committed to preach a different alien gospel in that church body, well that would certainly be grounds for expulsion. But, to try and be a healthy whole person, follow the teachings of Christ, and then be tossed? Quite a puzzlement.
First, I need to say that I am very impressed with your website! What a find, and thanks! I got the link from FoFfF.
I also want to say that I know Jenni personally and have for about 4 years or so, and she is such as sweatheart. I wish I could post some of our pictures together here. She has always been friendly, and showed me around SLC on my annual visits there. She has an amazing outlook on life and is a great person.
Thanks again.
Jenna
Thank you Jenna for your kind comment
I thought her story was really interesting and the interview itself was well done too, not glossing over the hard stuff and yet respectfully honoring Jenni as the woman and person she is. It’s nice to know she’s a great tour guide too 