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TAVA President Message
 Welcome to the 11th issue of The Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA) e-Newsletter! The aim of this publication is to keep you informed and updated concerning the transgender veteran community. The TAVA e-Newsletter is published quarterly. Each issue brings you the latest information on new TAVA initiatives, TAVA partners, conferences TAVA will send a representative to, and news items that are of interest for the transgender veteran and community. To make sure you stay connected, please subscribe to TAVA's quarterly newsletter via the TAVA website.
We also encourage our followers to join and/or renew your membership. For more information on TAVA membership, please visit: http://bit.ly/2crZ1aV. We hope you find the TAVA e-Newsletter as a valuable resource in collecting information about TAVA and the issues concerning you, the transgender veteran. We welcome your suggestions and feedback. You can contact us directly on the website at http://transveteran.org/contact-us-page/.
Evan Young
MAJ, U.S. Army (Ret.)
National President
Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA)
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Veterans Day 2018
 Veterans Day, a day dedicated to honoring those who served in the U.S. military, is annually held on November 11th. This is the time to remember those who put their lives on the line and served their country courageously and selflessly. Together, we celebrate the prideful service, past and present, of our all brothers and sisters and armed forces members. We recognize them for their many contributions to society and for their selfless service.
Additional Links of Interest...
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Watch TransMilitary on LOGO
 The official trailer is out! Watch TransMilitary November 15 at 7 pm Central on the Logo channel. Watch the preview here: https://bit.ly/2QjpCXs. "Four transgender military personnel, officially banned from serving, fight to fiercely protect U.S. freedom while also working to change military policy." TransMilitary premiered at 2018 SXSW and received the 2018 SXSW Audience Award." TAVA supports TransMilitary! Find out how to donate here: http://bit.ly/2d4vYMl.
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A Veteran's Perspective of Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR)
 The month of November can be rough for many veterans. Not only do we celebrate Veterans Day, our community also annually observes Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR).
Every November 20th, we pause to honor the memory of those whose lives were lost because of anti-trans violence. TAVA Board Member Kimberly Moore wrote a moving piece, reflecting on what TDOR means from one veteran's perspective.
"Kimberly reminds us of the importance of Transgender Day of Remembrance in her personal story that brought tears to my eyes," said Evan Young, TAVA National President. You can read Kimberly's story on our website: http://bit.ly/2yd46f1.
Additional Links of Interest...
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Website Information
The TAVA website is regularly updated to bring you the most current information. The variety of resources, documents, and other applicable materials are presented in a user-friendly format with the ease of simple navigation.
Points of interest...
- Beneficiary Form - Newly added to the website , TAVA now has a Beneficiary Form with instructions. Generally, you can name anyone, even a charity, as the beneficiary of your life insurance policy or retirement account. To help make this process easier, TAVA has posted full instructions with a short form in the event you elect to name TAVA as your beneficiary.
- Know Your Rights - a frequently asked questions section answering our most popular questions.
- Passport Facility Locator - makes it fast and easy to locate your nearest passport acceptance facility.
- Journalist Tips - guidance for those writing on trans veterans and active duty service members.
- DEERS Info - frequently asked questions regarding changing your name and gender in DEERS.
- For The History Books - collection of transgender veteran videos.
- Recommended Links - Government; Legal; LGBT Veteran and Military; National/Federal Agencies; VA and VA-related forms.
- State Veteran Benefits - Click on a state for benefit information such as Education Benefits; Financial Assistance; Employment Resources; Housing Links; Legal Resources; and other state benefits info.
Stay tuned as we continue to make more updates......
- T-Blog - In our TBlog, we tell you about our battles and share messages that inspire us and hopefully you too.
- Speaker's Bureau
- TAVA Historical Timeline
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DD 214 Assistance
TAVA has the ability to connect people with pro bono attorneys to assist with upgrading your DD 214. In addition, TAVA always has a DD 214 name change guide available on our website. It gives example verbiage for the DD 149 Form, which is the Application for Correction of Military Records. If you require assistance, please message TAVA President Evan at evan@transveteran.org
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Support TAVA each time you shop with AmazonSmile
 You can elect to have a small proceed of your purchases go to TAVA each time you shop with AmazonSmile. Amazon will donate 0.5% of the price of your eligible purchases to TAVA. What a great way to support transgender veterans! Be sure to select TAVA to add our organization as your charity of choice. To get started visit: https://smile.amazon.com/.
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Giving Tuesday | November 27, 2018
 GivingTuesday, a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity worldwide. TAVA has joined #GivingTuesday. Our goal is to raise $5,000 in order to continue funding our advocacy projects. Pledge your support to TAVA in our fight for advocacy for the 163,000 transgender veterans that served
our nation. DONATE HERE: https://bit.ly/2qB6YiV.
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TAVA Membership
 Members are the foundation of TAVA's strength. Our membership model allows anyone to join regardless of their financial ability. Choose what level best meets your needs. Your generous gift enables TAVA’s programs, advocacy, and outreach to be stronger and effective. Become a member and join a grassroots force which supports over 134,000 transgender veterans. For more information, visit: http://bit.ly/2crZ1aV.
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TAVA Advocacy & Outreach
As a grassroots organization, TAVA  advocates for fair and equal treatment of transgender military veterans and service members through using a combination of advocacy, outreach, and assistance. As military veterans who have served with pride, you inspire us to do better, taking action for every veteran and waking each morning to fight even harder than the day before.
- San Diego Trans Pride Booth
TAVA Board Member Zander proudly represented TAVA at this year's San Diego Trans Pride Booth, which took place in July 2018. Zander has represented TAVA at this event multiple years in a row.
- Washington Post Article
On July 20, 2018, TAVA Board Member Zander was one of several transgender men featured in the article entitled 'Crossing The Divide - Do men really have it easier? Zander shared his experiences. https://wapo.st/2Qrp5Dc
- Trans 101 Training for USF Nursing Students
On July 30, TAVA VP Gene represented TAVA at this training for USF nursing students. There will be another training in the future scheduled for November.
- Mather VA Campus LGBTQ Potluck
On August 18, TAVA VP Gene attended Mather VA's first LGBTQ Potluck. This event was well received and had quite the turnout of LGBT veterans and staff as well as a local assembly member.
- Trans 101 for VA Staff at McClellan Outpatient Clinic
On August 21, TAVA VP Gene participated in a Transgender 101 training specifically for McClellan Outpatient Clinic (Northern California). Similar training opportunities are scheduled for future dates.
- Stars and Stripes - VA Considers Ending Ban on Trans Surgeries for Disabled Veterans
TAVA Board Member Zander was interviewed for the August 24 article that appeared in Stars and Stripes. “It seems like the VA is the lone holdout hanging onto this exclusion,” said Zander Keig, a Coast Guard veteran and transgender man. https://bit.ly/2wc10YP
- TAVA Joins Amicus Brief on Strict Scrutiny for Transgender Classifications
In September 2018, TAVA has joined eight other U.S. veterans organizations on a powerful brief submitted to the U.S. District Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia in opposition to the proposed ban on military service by transgender individuals. “Unit cohesion is bonded stronger by the presence of transgender members. It is testament to our competence and performance, not to any perceived gender incongruity.” - TAVA President Evan Young. https://bit.ly/2PJxTXJ
- Tabling at San Diego Trans Wellness Day
On September 15, TAVA Board Member Zander represented at this event in the San Diego area.
- San Diego Mil Picnic 2018
On September 23, TAVA Board Member Zander represented at picnic in the Balboa park area of San Diego. TAVA is also listed as a sponsor for this event.
- American Unity Fund Conference "Defending the Freedom to Serve" Panel Discussion
On September 28, TAVA Board Member Kimberly participated on this Washington DC discussion panel focused on a permanent continuation of open transgender service. Kimberly reported that she was proud to be a panelist alongside Dr. Aaron Belkin of the Palm Center, Major General Gale Pollock former Surgeon General of the Army, and facilitator Caitlyn Jenner.
- Pride North Carolina
On September 29, TAVA Board Member Yvonne participated in North Carolina's Pride. The festival included providers with space. They were informational booths and the VA had same sized space. Yvonne handed out stickers that said "I'm a Vet." The sticker was perfect and the experience was heartwarming.
- Advancing Equality and Justice, Aims Community College, Greeley, CO.
On October 11, TAVA President Evan provided a keynote speech at this event. Evan felt that his speech was overall well received and that it changed minds.
- Article - Tim Donnelly Challenges Paul Cook From The Right
On October 11, TAVA President Evan is quoted in this article. “TAVA is appalled that a photo of an honorable, patriotic transgender veteran was used in a political attack without permission. Donnelly’s actions are deplorable, and we vehemently denounce his attempt to discredit and dishonor this veteran.” https://bit.ly/2OvZgzM
- National Coming Out Day Speaker
On Oct 11th, TAVA Board Member Denny was invited by NY State Assemblyman Brian Barnwell to speak at his National Coming Out Day event at an LGBT Center in Queens, NY. Denny spoke about coming out at the 1964 Worlds Fair in Queens, his military service, and what it all means today to LGBT people wanting to serve their country.
- Pride of the Ocean Planning Meeting
From October 12-19, TAVA President Evan attended this Cruise, the Globus Canyon Adventure Tour, from Scottsdale, AZ to Las Vegas, NV. Film makers, The Boys and Girls Club, as well as a diverse group of people attended. Each day, someone had the opportunity to share info about the organizations they represent. This was also part of the planning session with the LGBT military history film cruise.
- North County Pride, San Diego County
On October 13, Zander represented TAVA at the Oceanside (Camp Pendleton) LGBT Pride annual event. Zander interacted and met with many folks and had a chance to let them know about the TAVA's work.
- Speech at University of Maryland
On October 16, TAVA Board Member Kimberly shared her story with a class at the University of Maryland. Kimberly reported that the class was attentive and asked some good thought provoking questions. Having a few hours with the future leaders of our country gives Kimberly hope!
- TAVA Responds to Trump Memo Concerning Their Attempts To Define ‘Transgender’ Out Of Existence
On October 22, 2018, TAVA responded to Trump memo on the Admins attempt to narrowly define gender. TAVA Pres Evan stated “We do count, and our votes will count. This administration has started a war against LGBT persons, and we can’t sit idle and hope things will get better. Get out and vote and grab your neighbor to take them to vote as well.” - https://nyti.ms/2REEWyf
- TAVA Board Member Zander Receives NASW CA Social Work Award
One of TAVA's own board members was selected as the first openly transgender person to receive the national social worker of the year award. The National Association of Social Workers CA Chapter presented the award on October 26, 2018 at their annual conference at the LAX Marriott. Zander is the first out transgender social worker to receive this award. Zander works tirelessly to help veterans, and we hope that a wider audience could learn about his achievements.- https://bit.ly/2RGGnMv
- Congressional Software App Challenge
On October 29, TAVA Board Member and WSU Computer Science Professor Nella was asked by HASC Congressman Rick Larsen (WA-02) to help judge the Congressional Software App Challenge. - https://bit.ly/2SVfKVw
- Transgender Service Amicus Brief
On October 30, TAVA joined eight other U.S. veterans organizations on a powerful brief submitted to the U.S. District Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia in opposition to the proposed ban on military service by transgender individuals. “Unit cohesion is bonded stronger by the presence of transgender members. It is testament to our competence and performance, not to any perceived gender incongruity.” - TAVA President Evan Young. https://bit.ly/2AR2udz
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TAVA Upcoming Schedule
- November 11, 2018 - Zander - Tap Into Change by Equality California and Miller Coors Transgender Veterans & Military Recognition Event - San Diego, CA.
- November 13, 2018 - Gene - LGBT Safe Zone Training - USF Sacramento Campus.
- November 24, 2018 - Gene - Safe Zone Training - McClellan OPC, CA.
- November 29, 2018 - Zander - Celebrating Transgender Month - CalVet Minority Veterans Division - Oceanside, CA.
- March 2019 - Kimberly - Women’s History Month Keynote Speaker, University of Mary Washington.
- June 8-15, 2019 - Evan - Pride of the Ocean 2019 "50th Anniversary of Stonewall" Cruise.
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Make Your Voice Heard!
TAVA has compiled important surveys, petitions and
studies for the transgender veteran community. Your
voice matters and is critical to the process of collecting
data and providing important feedback. Feel free to
share these with other transgender veterans you may
know.
- DD-214 Discharge Upgrade/Name Change Survey
TAVA survey for those wishing to upgrade or change their name on their DD-214. We have partnered with a pool of experienced attorneys who provide free legal representation to veterans in upgrading their discharge status and changing their name on their DD-214. If you are interested, please fill out the following survey http://svy.mk/2lmjouh. Your responses will help us get a handle of the need for assistance.
- VHA Related Care Survey
If you are a veteran who uses the VA for their healthcare needs, we want to hear from you. Please take the TAVA VA related care survey located at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TDV9J63.
- Pride Study
Join the first longitudinal health study of LGBTQ people today. The PRIDE Study is the first large-scale, long-term health study of people who identify LGBTQ or another sexual or gender minority. By participating in The PRIDE Study over time, your unique story teaches us about the health and well-being of LGBTQ people like you. http://bit.ly/2wS88rA
- LGBTQ Election Study
LGBTQ-affirming researchers at the University of Massachusetts Boston want to know what your life has been like since the 2016 U.S. elections. This research study aims to explore relationships between experiences of heterosexism and/or transphobia, visibility of LGBTQ identity, and mental health. Participation involves completing a 20-30 minute online survey. To participate, you must be age 18 or older, currently living in the United States, and identify as LGBTQ. Visit: https://tinyurl.com/electionlgbtq. If you have questions, please email lgbtqelectionstudy@gmail.com directly.
- Identifying Barriers And Opportunities To Transform Healthcare For Gender Minorities
This study is being done to better understand your perceptions and experiences about the availability and quality of trans-inclusive health care in your community. This study is examining the factors influencing access to and quality of healthcare for gender minorities, including trans individuals, living in rural communities. https://bit.ly/2I184Mt
- Veterans' Health and Military Stress Survey
The Veterans Health Administration VISN 17 Centers of Excellence in conjunction with the Central Texas Veterans Healthcare System is conducting a survey to better understand the connections between stress during military service and veterans’ mental, relational, and sexual health. Please note that some of the questionnaires will cover sensitive topics. https://bit.ly/2Owm1E5
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True Stories of Transgender Service in Our Armed Forces
 Trans Veterans Lives is an ongoing TAVA project. The series features trans veteran stories from across the world. If you have a story that you would like to share, please contact TAVA media director, Denny Meyer at media@transveteran.org Read the latest Trans Veterans Lives story "Triumph of Determination," by Zander Keig, TAVA Board Member - https://bit.ly/2F8QEzN.
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Department of Defense (DoD) Related News
DoD and Military Articles of Interest...
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Veteran Affairs (VA) News
TAVA is your liaison to the Department of Veterans Affairs. We actively advocate for transgender veterans at the VA level by providing input and advice internally. Daily, we assist veterans in coming out to their primary care doctors. We also assist in answering questions and providing needed clarifications on the VA health care directive for transgender care. If you experience any issues with the VA, please contact us. Visit http://bit.ly/2cseMyx.
- New VA Fact Sheet - Identity Management Fact Sheet -
In May 2018, the VA updated its fact sheet concerning FAQ on changing one's name and gender. The sheet is now called Identity Management Fact Sheet. We have uploaded this directly to the website. It provides guidance to the field on the requirements for person identity trait changes, supporting documentation, record amendments, and other details pertaining to changing one's name and gender within the VA system. FMI: https://bit.ly/2DouoQD
- VA Secretary Nominee Promises Care For All Vets, Including Transgender Veterans - https://bit.ly/2qvn3qj
- Prosthetic Devices Available To Trans Vets
The VHA LGBT Health Program has worked with Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service (PSAS) and subject matter experts to clarify VA policy on prosthetic devices available to Transgender Veterans if their medical team determines the devices to be medically necessary. These devices include wigs, packers, Stand-to-Pee Devices, and their harnesses, gaffs, chest binders and surgical compression vests. Breast forms and dilators are also available. FMI: https://bit.ly/2RAIMZq
- Smartphone Feature Provides Immediate Access To Veterans Crisis Line - https://bit.ly/2LSLuek
- Veterans Affairs Sec. Wilkie Should Expand Care To Transgender Veterans - https://bit.ly/2yRu7Sn
- VA Adds 15 ‘Forever GI Bill’ Benefits - https://bit.ly/2qxWW1D
- LGBT and Religious Accomodations at VA
This is the link to the new VA EEO Policy Statement signed by VA Secretary Wilkie on August 13th, 2018. All the changes have been highlighted. Regarding the LGBT and religious accommodations, please refer to page 8. For LGBT Veterans and LGBT Civilians, the highlighted part might evoke strong emotions given the history of religion being used to justify discrimination and violence against LGBT Americans. However, it is important to remember that despite the new change that allows VA supervisors and VA employees to proselytize their religious beliefs, including attempts to convert their colleagues/employees at a workplace, any employee (LGBT or not) have the right to tell their colleague /supervisor to stop proselytizing to them and that person must cease to engage in these actions. If anyone has issues, please contact TAVA President Evan at president@transveteran.org. FMI: https://bit.ly/2QiyUTS
- VA Ozarks Holds Resource Fair Which Includes LGBT Resources - https://bit.ly/2BWCQXI
- Text Messages Now Available for VA Appointments -https://bit.ly/2DoNbf0
- 83 House Lawmakers Urge VA Sec to Offer GRS - https://bit.ly/2SOWGZi
- Vermont VA Drag Show Celebrates All Veterans - https://bit.ly/2OAjMAq
- LGBT History Month
In honor of October being LGBT History Month, the VA LGBT Health Program has chosen the theme “Do Ask, Do Tell. Coming out to your provider is an important step to better healthcare.” FMI: please contact the LGBT Health Program, Office of Patient Care Services at VALGBTProgram@va.gov Link - https://bit.ly/2RBlvGz
- Johnson City VA at Veterans Stand Down - James H. Quillen VA Medical Center - LGBT Booth set up - https://bit.ly/2PdGouD
- The Unexpected And Caring Services For LGBT Vets At The DC VA - https://bit.ly/2DnOt9Q
- Nov 2018 - Trans Awareness Month -
During Transgender Awareness Month, the VA joins other organizations to raise awareness about transgender Veterans and the issues and challenges that trans people face. To help spread awareness, The VA LGBT Health Program, Office of Patient Care Services, has created new flyers to share information with transgender Veterans about the Transgender Econsultation Program. FMI: https://bit.ly/2zxH5US
- Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VA Medical Center Suicide Prevention Coordinator/LGBT Veteran Care Coordinator, Celena Veverka, was among several VA employees who were recognized with commendations by VA Secretary Wilkie. - https://bit.ly/2DoyxUQ
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Transgender Health Articles
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Recent Reports & Studies
 Transgender-related reports/studies compiled from
a variety of sources.
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2019 Pride of the Ocean Festival
 Are you a veteran? If so, please join Evan Young, National President of the Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA), who will be speaking on Pride of the Ocean’s "50th Anniversary of Stonewall" cruise!
The Pride of the Ocean 2019 "50th Anniversary of Stonewall" cruise is now on sale, but only for a limited time. Sailing with Norwegian Cruise Lines onboard the Norwegian Dawn from June 8 – June 15, 2019, for 8-days, 7-nights. The cruise will set sail from New York to Canada & New England.
Friends of TAVA, if you’re a veteran, book your cabin with the promo code TAVA2019 and receive:
– $150 per person cabin discount for you
– $50 cabin credit for you
– $100 donation for TAVA.
*See the direct link for more info: https://bit.ly/2zrKkgI
For more information about Pride Of The Ocean Cruises, please visit: http://prideoftheocean.com/
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Passport Changes
As reported by Travel and Leisure, as of January 22,  2018, nine states will no longer allow travelers to board an airplane with just their state issued driver’s licenses. To get past TSA security checkpoints, another form of ID will be required such as: passport, permanent resident card/green card or a military ID. We are sharing this news so residents in these 9 states can prep, especially since our community may have a more difficult time getting a passport. To assist, TAVA has a Passport Facility Locator on our website: http://bit.ly/2zolU6Z.
Additional Articles Of Interest...
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©2013 Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA) 