Why would you ask a trans woman “If science discovered a way to change sexual orientation, what would you do?”? Did you even ask Dana if she’s lesbian before asking that question? Many trans people change their sexual orientation when they transition, although of course many don’t. This is a great example of a question that’s a good fit for a gay or lesbian person, but makes little sense to ask of a trans person. A better question might have been “If science discovered a way to change gender identity…”.

And then there’s “What’s Washington’s best nightspot, past or present?”. Dana doesn’t even live in DC, she’s a Maryland-based activist and political figure, so what exactly was the point of asking this one?

Trans people deserve to be interviewed in a way that fits with who we are and how we live our lives, not with cookie-cutter questions written for gay and lesbian subjects.

C’mon, you guys are better than this. I know you are because I’ve been reading the Blade for far too long not to be absolutely convinced of it. That said, the Blade really needs at least one trans reporter on staff so that stuff like this doesn’t happen.