University survey looks at issues for transgender persons

Springfield, Ill. (AP) — A national survey conducted by the University of Illinois-Springfield shows positive attitudes toward the rights of transgender people.

Springfield's WTAX-AM reports the survey conducted online of 774 people shows 81 percent supportive of those who are transgender having the same rights as the rest of us. However, only 41 percent support using public funds to help provide medical treatment for them.

Associate professor of political science Jason Pierceson says information about needs of the transgender community in terms of politics, policy, and law is lacking. He says the more education there is, the more hearts and minds will be changed.

According to Pierceson, there is not a lot of information about many policies and issues concerning transgender persons. He adds minds are likely to be swayed if the person knows someone who is transgender.

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The Gayly – September 1, 2015 @ 6:30am.