Governor Appoints Transgender Man to Women’s Commission in Massachusetts

Governor Maura Healey of Massachusetts has appointed Gisele Byrd, a transgender man, to the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW). Byrd, who is currently the vice chair of the commission’s organizational planning committee, fills a role that has garnered national attention, especially amidst criticism from conservative groups and women’s rights advocates.

Since its establishment in 1998, the MCSW has been responsible for addressing issues affecting women and girls in the state and making recommendations aimed at enhancing equality and opportunity. Byrd expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “As the first transgender woman of color on the committee, I am honored to serve alongside my fellow committee members. I am excited about the journey we will take together.”

This appointment, made on August 20, has not been without controversy. State Representative Alison Sullivan-Almeida has raised concerns, questioning why Governor Healey could not find biological women eligible for the commission from a population of nearly 3.5 million biological girls and women in Massachusetts.

In response, Carissa Hand, a press secretary for the governor, mentioned that Healey’s predecessor had also appointed a transgender individual to the Women’s Commission. “Giselle Byrd is committed to the advancement of women and is a highly respected leader in the Boston arts community,” she said. It’s worth noting that past appointments have included transgender individuals, with former Governor Baker appointing Sarah Schnorr, who identifies as female, in 2016.

Byrd is also the executive director of “The Theater Offensive,” an organization focused on promoting art by and for people of color. The group’s mission emphasizes the importance of diverse artistic expression and combating systemic oppression. In a “Letter to the Community,” Byrd shared her perspective, stating, “I’m a transgender black woman from the American South who advocates for change… I know the truth. We all know the truth.”