From Iceland — Transgendered Organisation Calls for Change in Language

Transgendered Organisation Calls for Change in Language

Published October 29, 2010

A group advocating for the rights of transgendered people have called upon the state broadcasting service RÚV to change the language they use in describing the transgendered.
The group, The Pink Fist, have asked that RÚV use the word “transfólk” (self-explanatory) instead of “kynskiptingur” (“sex-changer”). The Trans-Iceland Association have previously made the same request, on the grounds that “kynskiptingur” is considered degrading by many transgendered people. The Pink Fist also states that RÚV’s use of the word shows a lack of respect on their part.
RÚV spokesman Ásgrímur Angantýsson told Vísir that such complaints have never reached his desk. He added that if he had received such a complaint, he would have responded at once and given the request full consideration.
When asked if RÚV will begin using the transfólk instead of kynskiptingur, he said, “I see no reason to rule out using the word transfólk, none at all. It’s a word that has been used in a formal setting, such as in legislation and elsewhere.”
A formal decision on the matter at RÚV has yet to be taken.

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