Do I need to come out of the closet to complain about transphobia in my workplace?

Use the " I have a cousin who is trans, and I know what you are saying is not true" line.

You don’t have to be black to be uncomfortable with racist remarks, just like how you do NOT have to be trans to be uncomfortable with transphobia. You also do NOT have to put yourself. There’s a reason you’re not out; do not put yourself just to get them to be decent people. It’s not fair to yourself. I am not trans, I would be uncomfortable with those remarks too.

I agree with the person who said to call HR. Anonymously report them; tell them it makes you comfortable. Exaggerate it; say that it might push you to quit. That will make them take action.

There are a few levels to this.

1) no you don’t have to come out to address this. But you can create a safe space around you by asking people to not say bigoted things around you and by not going along with their jokes.

2) you say you are not out - but on some level at least some of them must have you figured out. They are baiting you. Ironically- the worst of the bullies is probably another closet case.

3) if you live in a free and open society - coming out is your civic duty. This might seem to go against what I said in point 1 - but if you live in a place like Iran - please stay closeted. But if you live in a progressive Country - by coming out you teach others. Its the boldest political move you can make. And it is why we are gaining rights - by outing ourselves and showing others we are normal people - we create social change. It is your duty to be out if you are on.your own and paying your own bills and in a free and open society. Don’t shirk your duty.

Why are tolerating that? Don't need to come out, that's not how to live. Rather someone is trans or not they workplace has to be place to be comfortable for all, what if it's not just you?

Call HR and tell they you would prefer a more sterile work environment without the jokes. Then stick to your job, don't socializes during office hours and live your life. If everyone works at work, they won't know what you are or care.