A House Foreign Affairs subcommittee hearing on Tuesday ended abruptly after a controversial incident involving Rep. Keith Self (R-Texas) and Rep. Sarah McBride (D-Del.). McBride, who made history as the first openly transgender person elected to Congress, was referred to as “mister” by Self during the hearing.
The incident occurred during a discussion on arms control and U.S. assistance to Europe. Self, who chairs the subcommittee on Europe, introduced McBride as “the congressman from Delaware.” This statement sparked outrage from McBride and other members of Congress, leading to a heated exchange between the two representatives.
McBride, visibly upset by Self’s introduction, immediately corrected him by stating, “I am the congresswoman from Delaware.” She further added, “It’s Representative, not congressman.” Despite the clear correction, Self continued to address McBride as “mister” throughout the hearing.
This incident has sparked criticism and backlash from the LGBTQ+ community and allies, who see it as a deliberate attempt to undermine McBride’s gender identity and position in Congress. Many have taken to social media to express their disappointment and demand an apology from Self.
In a statement released after the hearing, McBride expressed her disappointment and emphasized the importance of respecting people’s gender identity. She stated, “As the first transgender person elected to Congress, I understand the significance of my presence and the responsibility that comes with it. It is disheartening to see a fellow member of Congress refuse to acknowledge my identity and dismiss my position as a congresswoman.”
Many of McBride’s colleagues and supporters have come to her defense, condemning Self’s behavior and standing in solidarity with her. Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.), who is also openly gay, tweeted, “It’s 2021, and we still have to remind some of our colleagues to respect people’s gender identity. This behavior is unacceptable and must be called out.”
Self, on the other hand, has yet to issue a formal apology or address the incident. However, his office released a statement stating that he “did not mean any disrespect” and that he “will make sure to address Rep. McBride with the appropriate pronouns moving forward.”
This incident highlights the ongoing discrimination and challenges faced by transgender individuals in society, even in the halls of Congress. It is a reminder that despite the progress that has been made in terms of LGBTQ+ rights, there is still much work to be done in terms of acceptance and inclusion.
McBride’s presence in Congress is a significant milestone for the LGBTQ+ community, and her courage and resilience in the face of discrimination are commendable. As she continues to navigate through her role as a congresswoman, it is crucial for her colleagues and society as a whole to respect her gender identity and treat her with the same dignity and respect afforded to any other member of Congress.
In a time when political divisions are at an all-time high, it is more important than ever to promote inclusivity and understanding. We must strive to create a society where everyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, is treated with respect and equality. Let us use this incident as a reminder to continue working towards a more accepting and inclusive world.
