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task-mismanager · 3 years

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You never showed up before.

I’m sure I’m going to get yelled at or tone-policed for this post, so let’s start here: spare your fucking breath.

But if you feel you must rant back at me, read the whole fucking post first.

A few years ago, Black Harry Potter fans pointed out the lack of Black characters in the books. If memory serves me, there are two–Kingsley Shacklebolt and Blaise Zabini. One is a Death Eater. The other one is literally a man named after a kind of prison chain. And fans went “well Jo supports Black Hermione headcanons and she was played onstage by a Black girl!”

A few years ago, Black readers expressed concern over how Rowling portrayed S.P.E.W., and the concept of house elves being slaves. People dismissed this as being because the house elves are based on the folkloric brownies–and while this is true, there was absolutely no attempt to show why Hermione was wrong beyond “lol silly girl, wanting to free the house elves,” nor was any attempt made to show why the treatment of Dobby and Winky was wrong beyond “well their masters were Slytherins what can you expect.” Black readers’ concerns were dismissed.

And a few years ago–around the release of Cursed Child was the first time I encountered it–Black fans pointed out that Lavender Brown was Black in the movies … until she became Ron’s love interest and was recast as a while girl. People got kind of mad and then forgot about it.

Over a decade ago, Jews pointed out that the goblins were antisemitic stereotypes. They were largely ignored. More recently, these pointings-out have been gaslit, ahistorically waved away, or the critics have been threatened.

About four years ago, I wrote a piece about why Snape is an antisemitic stereotype, and why, while he’s fascinating as a character, his narrative is extremely concerning within the context of being framed as Jewish-coded. I was largely ignored, except by Jews. I was still a gentile at the time and even so I was told by other gentiles that I was imagining things–or that I was the one stereotyping Jews by recognizing the negative stereotypes in the work, so maybe I was the bigot, huh, how about that.

A couple of years ago, someone actually took Rowling to task on Twitter about there being no Jews in the books. Her reply was “there are plenty! Anthony Goldstein is Jewish!” Anthony has no spoken lines–his biggest interaction with any of the main cast is shooting Harry a dirty look–and his Jewishness is not mentioned or shown anywhere.

I can’t be sure when I started seeing this, but as a onetime Harry Potter fan myself, I can say for sure it was within a year of Deathly Hallows the book coming out: criticism of the fact that the only gay character in the books turned out to be a master manipulator who was in love with a Hitler parallel, was in charge of children, and was actively grooming a young boy. (Later criticisms have been angry that Dumbledore was never mentioned as gay in the books. On that one, I have to give Rowling a very begrudging pass–even if she’d found a way to bring it up, in 2007 it would have been censored right back out.) And yet other than the occasional stray comment, that criticism has largely been ignored.

LGBT activists and gay men have been outraged since 1999 because Rowling stated that lycanthropy was supposed to be a corollary for AIDS. Ah, yes: because AIDS makes its victims turn into deadly, feral beasts once a month but causes absolutely zero other health problems, and it’s most commonly spread by ill actors who know they’re poz and deliberately infect others. Yep. Sounds accurate to me … not.

Twenty years ago, Chinese-American readers and Chinese-British readers pointed out the racism inherent in the name “Cho Chang,” which sounds quite close to the racial slur “ching-chong” (and also is not a real Chinese name). They were ignored. At best, their legitimate grievance was trotted out as a “tsk tsk” addendum when the focus on Rowling’s anti-trans views started coming to light.

When the background lore for Fantastic Beasts came out, Native American readers were horrified by what Rowling did with their culture. I don’t think I can even list all of their complaints here because they were so many, so myriad, and it’s literally easier and more to the point to just say “she was lazy and clearly did not do a single line of research, ever, at all, and did not get anything right, at all, and in fact got a lot of things very offensively wrong.” People got mad for about five minutes and then forgot all about it when the movie dropped.

Readers with ties to the African continent were also horrified, by the way, because supposedly there’s one magical school for the tiny little islands of the UK and also one magical school for the biggest continent on earth. The many cultures, languages, and the basic geographic impossibility of this were all ignored by Rowling and her publishers–and fans, who got mad for five minutes and then forgot about it when the movie dropped.

When it came out that Nagini was some kind of snake woman, being played by a Korean actress, some fandomers pointed out that it was really fucking gross to have a Korean woman trapped by a man who then “impregnates” her with part of himself. Among other things, it’s at best an unfortunate parallel with the Korean “comfort women” of WWII. (translation: Korean women who were raped and tortured by Japanese soldiers.) People got mad for about five minutes and then forgot about it.

At some point–again, Potter has been in my direct or periphery for such a long time that years start blending together–Rowling made a statement about how the reason there are no disabled people at Hogwarts is because they’re “fixed” by magic. There was basically no outcry at all.

And now that Rowling’s rabid anti-trans views have come to light, you want to pretend you never knew she was a terrible bigot.

You’re showing up for trans women. As you should. Good job, have a gold star.

But do not forget, and do not give yourself a pass, that you never fucking showed up for the rest of us. You were passive and dismissive and justifying.

She is racist, ableist, queerphobic, and antisemitic. You have had a way to know this for twenty years. Even if you missed some of the early criticisms–I did, I was twelve years old and I fully recognize that many Potter readers aren’t even as old as the series itself, I don’t expect a five-year-old to have noticed this stuff–the evidence has piled up and piled up and piled up.

And only when it became a cause that’s politically convenient did outrage begin.

Speak out for the trans women who have been and will be harmed by Rowling’s recent drive off the cliff. Please do. I mean that genuinely. This is not okay.

But speak out for the rest of us too. Call her to task for EVERYTHING. Otherwise it’s empty performative posturing.

Your activism must be intersectional. Or it’s bullshit.

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task-mismanager · 3 years

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I am so sorry for this but the binder FAQ on yalls FAQ page just leads to the same post im so sorry

Lee says:

Our blog is a hot mess and I take full responsibility for that because I don’t know anything about HTML so each of my “fixes” just makes things worse in a different way. At some point I intend to update our resources so the info is current, and then maybe find someone who knows HTML to make it look nice. But until that day, you get Legacy Blog ™ which looks and acts like it’s from 9 years ago because it is.

However, the page should work if you copy this link in your browser: https://transgenderteensurvivalguide.tumblr.com/bindingfaq

And if it doesn’t work, I’ll copy the text from that page below:

Who can bind?

Anyone who has a chest they’d like to be less prominent can bind! It isn’t limited to only dysphoric trans men/boys, and if you want to bind then you’re allowed to.

Anyone who wants to bind is allowed to. That includes AFAB non-binary people who want a flatter chest, trans people who don’t have chest dysphoria but want to pass as male or look less feminine and find binding helpful for that, and transfeminine people on E who have breast development they are uncomfortable with or need to hide because they aren’t out, and anyone else who wants to bind.

Cis people who want to make their chest appear smaller or flat can bind. That includes cis men with gynecomastia and cis women doing cosplay. If you’re cis and you want to bind, you’re welcome to use this page because the safety tips apply to everyone, but please do not use the free binder resources here because they are meant for trans people. Cis people can buy binders that are marketed toward trans people, though. And no, putting on a binder does not “make” you trans.

However, nobody is required to bind. You don’t need to bind to be a valid trans person, and you shouldn’t feel pressured to do so. You can be a trans boy with a large chest and still not want to bind- it’s okay to opt out of binding if you’re comfortable with your body and don’t want to bind! You can be trans and not want to bind too because gender identity is different than your gender expression and your body. You are also allowed to choose to bind only at specific times.

Where can I buy a binder?

GC2B and Underworks are the most popular and reputable binder companies

We can’t guarantee the safety of other brands as they haven’t been as thoroughly reviewed and tested by the trans community, so please use at your discretion.

Custom binders: Shapeshifters Inc (also safe!)

Spectrum Outfitters is a UK-based binder brand that looks similar to gc2b

Other relatively safe binder makers are T-kingdom, DoubleDesign (Or DoubleT), Danaë, Peecock, Sweat It Out, Morris Designs, Nouvelle Inc, ManSculpture, Esha-Taipei, and X-body

There is no single best binder. Different binders will suit different needs and body types. Finding reviews by people with a similar body type and asking people why they chose the binder they wear are good places to start when looking for a binder.

Strapless binders likely aren’t safe.

Known unsafe brands: LesLoveBoat (their clasp binders specifically), Ebay, binders that are sold on Amazon (except Underworks), Wish, The Discriminant, Ancient Fish King

Free binders for trans people:

Point5CC

The Binder Project

Gender Gear (Canada, not free but $5 each)

Search “binder giveaway” on Tumblr and keep that tag tracked! Also check out blogs like @Binder-giveaway-reblogs.

Local LGBT organizations or support groups may have free binders that have been donated by other trans folk, especially if they also have other donated clothes available so check in with local resources first since it’s usually easier to get a binder from them in person than it is to go on a waitlist for a non-local organization and get something shipped online.

Cis people who want to flatten their chests because of cosplay or acting can buy binders from a store listed in the question above but shouldn't get them from a donation program for trans people.

How do I buy a binder if I’m not out?

How to buy a binder without parents knowing

Asking a friend to get you a binder

What is the gc2b packaging like?

What’s the underworks packaging like?

What does shapeshifters inc. packaging look like?

binderbuddies

If your parents find your binder

How do I ask my parents for a binder?

Asking parents for a binder

Scientific study on the safety of binding

I can’t get a binder. How can make my chest look flatter?

Sports bras: Ren made some sweet info on binding with two sports bras- see part one here, and part two here. Here’s a post about asking for a sports bra. You’ll want to use this type, and here are some brand recs. There is a ribbed sports bra modification prototype here, but it may not be safe, so we recommend Ren’s method for now.

Camisoles: We also have a post about binding with camisoles

Tape: KT or TransTape binding

Padded shaper: This post describes a padded undershirt to help make your chest less noticeable by filling out the other areas.

Dance top, swimsuit, compression shirt: Dance tops or one-piece Speedo sports swimsuits, and athletic compression shirts can also compress the chest a little.

Clothing: Clothing to wear to help disguise chest

Please do not try to make a DIY binder. Chances are, it will not be safe and you could hurt yourself.

Binding without a binder

Which type of binder should I get and what size?

We have a style guide here!

Full length vs half tank binders

Again, strapless binders likely aren’t safe.

Here is how to measure yourself for a binder

Can I bind if my chest is still growing?

Yes, it’s safe to bind if you’re afab and going through an estrogen-based puberty and your chest is still developing, and it’s safe to bind if you’re amab and on estrogen and want to hide your breast development.

Binding shouldn’t interfere with breast development or cause them to grow less, and it shouldn’t harm them if you bind safely even if they’re still growing although you may get some sagging.

But- you do want to periodically re-measure yourself periodically to make sure you haven’t outgrown your binder and need a bigger size.

If your binder starts feeling too tight or uncomfortable, you’ll need to buy a larger one.

What are the risks unsafe of binding?

These are side effects we’ve heard people self-report after unsafe binding:

Damaged ribs (bruised, broken, deformed, warped, cracked, etc)

If you deform/damage your ribcage, you might not be be able to bind again

aggravation of existing conditions (such as asthma)

heart and lung problems

ulcers

build up of fluid in the lungs

vomiting

coughing up blood

Reduced lung capacity

Mammary duct ectasia

A non-harmful side-effect would be softer chest tissue, stretch marks on the chest, and a more saggy chest. You will likely get sagging after a while even if you bind safely!

These exercises and advice can help prevent binding injuries (here are some more)

What are the general safety rules of binding?

Don’t sleep with your binder on at night

Don’t do any vigorous exercising in a binder- no things that get your heart rate up and make you breathe heavily and sweat

Don’t bind for more than 12 hours maximum at once, 8 hours regularly

Take breaks if possible

Break in a binder - don’t go straight to 8 hours of use

Never bind too small, use the right size (if between sizes, go up)

Never use ACE bandages or duct tape

Take it off if you’re experiencing pain

Don’t bind when you’re sick with a cough

Do not double bind! Don’t wear a binder and another binder on top, or a binder and a compression sports bra. Two sports bras are okay though.

Binding with two sports bras is still binding, and the same rules about wearing a binder apply to sports bra binding!

How do I start binding?

By easing into it! Don’t go straight to the maximum time limits, work up by one or two hours per day

Here’s how to remember to take it off

What to wear under binder if chest is falling down

Binding do and don'ts

Binding when you have anxiety about it

You can position your chest however you feel the most comfortable. gc2b recommends having your chest face forward in the center of the binder like this.

Explaining binder if visible when changing

I’ve just started binding and I’m experiencing X!

“Is this normal?”

Can I bind while doing x?

Yes

On a plane (but be careful of TSA)

At school

Doing normal routine stuff that won’t raise your heart rate

While smoking or vaping

While taking a walk or light bike ride

While playing an instrument that requires breath

While singing (singing in the car is okay, choral singing or any singing where you need good breath control is not)

While practicing for/performing in a theatre production

While exercising

While moshing/screaming/dancing at a concert

While sleeping

While swimming (unless you have a specific swimming binder)

On roller coasters/thrill rides

While getting a first tattoo

While crying heavily (if you can avoid it)

When you’re sick (especially if you’re coughing, having a hard time breathing, or throwing up)

During gym class

When you’re visiting somewhere that is much hotter than temperatures that you are used to (vacations)

When you have a chest/torso injury, are recovering from improper binding, etc.

While drunk/planning to be drunk

While doing any activity you couldn’t sing while doing without getting out of breath, even if you don’t consider it “exercise”, including marching band, dance, running, weightlifting, etc

Can binding cause x?

Let’s be clear, binding does NOT cause

Breast cancer

Lung cancer

Any cancer at all

Mastitis

Will binding make my chest sag?

Everyone’s chest sags with time whether or not you bind, but binding accelerates the process because over time the compression from binding can break down some of the breast tissue. This isn’t dangerous, it’s just an aesthetic change.

Larger breasts naturally tend to sag more over time even if you don’t bind because the breasts themselves weigh more.

Your chest will still be the same functionality-wise: you’ll have the same amount of sensation and you’ll still be able to breastfeed one day if you so chose.

You can wear a supportive bra to help your chest look less saggy although bras don’t actually reverse chest sagging. A push-up bra is best for cleavage, but generally any bra with quality straps and an underwire will help with the shape.

There isn’t really a way to bind and not have your chest sag eventually.

Any binding over an extended period of time will cause sagging, but some people can bind for months without noticing sagging while other people notice it sooner so there isn’t any particular time frame when it happens as it varies by person.

You won’t suddenly get a lot of sagging one day without noticing it because sagging happens gradually over time, so you could always stop binding if you feel uncomfortable with the changes.

Sagging is only reversible through cosmetic surgery.

Can I bind if I have x?

Binding with certain conditions can be detrimental but doable, while others may prevent you from binding. Keep in mind that many of these conditions have varying severity and your experience may be different from others.

costochondritis

asthma

bronchitis / pneumonia / any coughing

scoliosis

chronic pain

fibromyalgia

using crutches (for an injury)

mitral valve prolapse

Ehlers-Danlos

POTS

dwarfism/chronic congestion + sinus issues

seizures

Tourette’s

So, I wore my binder for too long, but I feel okay! Am I injured? What should I do?

Please see this post!

I think I hurt myself! What do I do?

Ren once again made a really nice troubleshooting post for chest pains/binding injuries

Here’s some excuses to give your parents if you need to see a doctor and you’re closeted

Here’s some info on talking to your doc about binding

How do I put on/take off my binder?

Here is the usual method for putting it on.

However, if your shoulders/chest are larger than your hips, you may find it easier to step into it and pull it up (like you would with a one-piece swimsuit or snowsuit).

This is how to wear a velcro/zipper binder

This is how to take off a binder

How do I wash a binder?

Here’s a post on washing a binder. It has info on how to secretly wash it on your own if you’re closeted and have to hide your binder.

Binders should be washed about as often as you would wash a bra. Some people say every 3 days, and some people say once a week. It depends on how much you sweat and whether your skin is irritated easily.

If you’re getting increased acne on your chest or back, it may be a sign that you need to wash your binder (and/or body) more often!

I’m stuck!

Put your right hand on the left side of your binder, and the left hand on the right side, and pull up.

If that doesn’t work, try pulling your arms out of the arm holes and pulling it downwards

If that doesn’t work, try pulling the straps upwards or grabbing the center back of the neckline and pulling it upward.

If that doesn’t work, try get a friend to help you

If there’s no friend / it didn’t work, you may need to cut it off and replace it. However a binder shouldn’t be so tight that you get stuck!

How do I know if it’s the right size?

If you’re having trouble breathing or experiencing sharp pain in your ribs, then it’s too small.

Can you fit your fist between your binder and the centre of your chest? If so, then it’s big enough!

If you could wear a winter coat under your binder, then it’s too big!

Here’s a post from GC2B about how to tell if a binder is too small or too big.

What do I do if it’s not the right size?

Here’s Lee’s experience with exchanging Underworks and GC2B binders.

Do not wear your binder if it is too small because that’s not safe.

I get really dysphoric without my binder but I need to sleep, help!

Wearing a baggy shirt, putting a pillow over your chest, or sleeping on your front can all help with dysphoria when going to bed! Look at our sleep post too.

I get dysphoric without my binder but I need to shower, help!

Turning off the lights in the bathroom or just having a dim light, or having some point on the wall to focus on rather than you body can help!

Staying clean when you have dysphoria about showering

Shower dysphoria

I wanna go swimming, what do I do?

There are swim binders available from Underworks here, and some other binder stores mentioned above.

All GC2B binders are safe to swim in if you get a size larger than your usual size.

Bareskin Swim Binders should also be safe for swimming.

Outplay has high compression swimming tops.

Rebirth Garments has a swim top.

However, if you swim competitively, lifeguard, or do any type of “exercise” swimming, use a sports bra and rash guard instead.

More info on what to wear swimming is here.

Can I paint my binder?

Painting a binder

I still want to know more!

Here’s another post about binding and check out our binding tag and our binders tag!

9 Tips For Chest Binding As A Plus Size Person

A YouTube video on binding

Chest binding 101

All The Questions You Had About Chest Binding, But Were Afraid To Ask

Everything you need to know about binders and binding

All about binding

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