Jonathan Van Ness, while talking about transgender children in sports, told Dax shepard that he was tired of fighting for these little kids who just wanted to be included.

Jonathan Van Ness became emotional when defending the trans rights of Dax Shepard.

Van Ness cried during an exchange between Shepard and Van Ness on Shepard’s Armchair expert Podcast. The two were discussing gender affirming care, as well as the issue of trans children in sports. Monica Padman, Shepard's co-host, warned listeners that the two had "inadvertently", started debating a topic Dax acknowledged was "very sensitive" before playing the entire audio.

Shepard stated that "some people are uncomfortable with teenagers who transition," before bringing up arguments from those against gender-affirming health care. How can we be sure that the person won't change their mind?" There's also a counterargument. Even if they question it, you are an enemy. "I don't believe that's the best way forward."

Van Ness, who felt like he "was talking to my father" when discussing transgender kids in sports, said to Shepard: "There are just so many other things that are more important, and we're here saying, "Well, there are legitimate concerns [about the transgender athletes ],'"." "All I am saying is that we know what misinformation and misinformation are. When you have an outsized response to something, it's likely you're exposed to misinformation or disinformation."

JVN who is a transgender non-binary person continued: "There's a lot misinformation, and even disinformation, in the anti-trans backlash rhetoric."

Shepard, who continued to argue against Van Ness, said that he was exhausted. Not only from fighting for trans rights, but also for the kids who have been bullied because of their gender identity. These kids "just want be included" in any activity or sport where trans children are barred.

Van Ness, who was visibly in tears, told Shepard: "I'm tired of fighting for little children because they want to be included." I wish people cared as much about the inclusion of little children or their ability to grow up, as they did about the fictitious fairness for women in sports. I must tell you that I am tired."

JVN continued to state that the public arguments were more like a "targeted assault against queer people" based on statistics which he claimed did not add up. He continued: "I am not calling you transphobic." People can't be transphobic while still having thoughts that promote trans misogyny or transphobic ideologies and beliefs.

JVN called the conversation "trigger town" because it began with Shepard asking if the New York Times is a left-leaning magazine. Shepard apologized on several occasions for placing the TV star and stylist in the position of feeling he needed to defend himself.

Shepard replied: "I did not want to challenge your position about any of these issues." Van Ness said, "I am just emotionally tired" of having to defend transgender people and gender issues.

Shepard replied, "I think it's right that you feel like setting the table is not my responsibility."

Van Ness said that despite his apparent confidence in TV and on social media, he struggles with gender identity. He noted that if it weren't for sports such as cheerleading that allowed him the freedom to be himself, he wouldn't be living life today.

He said, "I'm afraid of the daily vitriol trans people experience," and that he didn't know if he lived like that. "For those who say, 'You are so authentic and brave', I am not."

Shepard said to the guest "I know you're disappointed with me" but he replied that he was not.

After the episode aired, Shepard posted an Instagram post that promoted the episode, and fans commented on it.

I understand that sensitive topics need to be discussed. I don't get why we have to find a compromise when the other side is asking for nothing more than to be heard. "I hope this episode will lead to some reflection," wrote one user.

One person said, "I know many straight liberal men who feel the same way as Dax." JVN did a great job educating and defending, but I am sure this conversation will have a profound impact on so many people. "

Listen to the entire discussion below. It starts at the 24 minute mark.

-----------------------------------

Title: Jonathan Van Ness Breaks Down During Debate with Dax Shepard Over Trans Issues: 'I'm Emotionally Exhausted'
Sourced From: www.toofab.com/2023/09/25/jonathan-van-ness-dax-shepard-trans-issues/
Published Date: Mon, 25 Sep 2023 22:49:00 +0000

Read More