Ryan Webb, a Republican councilman from Indiana, has announced on social media that he is a trans-Native American lesbian. He claims to be “honored to shatter this glass ceiling” and pledged to be a “vocal partner for the LGBTQIAPC+++ community”.
Despite receiving death threats and calls for his resignation, Webb said that he is not backing down on his decision to be a trans woman of color. He also claimed to have Cherokee ancestors on both sides of his family, allowing him to self-identify as a woman of color.
While some have praised him, others have accused him of making a mockery of the trans community. Some conservative commentators have interpreted Webb’s announcement as a joke.
Webb responded by saying that he is holding up a “mirror to the political left” to expose the contradictions in gender, and he remains married to his wife, Brandy Webb.
The announcement has sparked controversy, with some people outraged by Webb’s claims to be a Native American lesbian.
During a Fox News interview, he responded by saying that he is “very proud” to highlight his Native American ancestors. When asked if he had more Cherokee blood than Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Webb responded by saying he thinks it’s enough to self-identify as a woman of color.
Warren identified as Native American on a Texas bar application and was accused of participating in a “diversity sham” by her election opponent, then-Sen. Scott Brown, R-Mass. However, Warren took a DNA test in 2018, which found she potentially had trace Native American ancestry six or more generations back. She later apologized to the Cherokee Nation for the incident.
Webb’s announcement has led to discussions about the definition of gender and what it means to self-identify.
Some have accused him of making a mockery of the trans community, while others have praised him for his courage in coming out as a trans woman of color. Webb has said that he may change his mind down the road and that the process of identity exploration is complex. He believes that he should be given the same space and respect to explore his identity that so many of those targeting him demand themselves.
The controversy surrounding Webb’s announcement highlights the ongoing debate about gender and identity. It is important to recognize that everyone’s experience of gender is unique and that self-identification is a personal decision. While some may question Webb’s motives, it is important to respect his right to self-identify as a trans-Native American lesbian. We should all strive to create a more accepting society and understanding of different identities and experiences.
Sources
- Fox News
- Yahoo! News
- The Washington Times
- Photo courtesy of Ryan Webb