I work with a few people that you may be referring to and have friends like that too. I use the pronouns that they request. Why? Because I'm not a jerk. Sure,

I work with a few people that you may be referring to and have friends like that too. I use the pronouns that they request. Why? Because I'm not a jerk. Sure, if I wanted to make a stink, I could. Do I have my own opinions? Yeah, of course. But making a stink is not going to help anyone. Putting my own opinions aside (whatever they may be) and being kind is the only path forward that keeps communication open and honest. As to your last question, it's all about the $$$. Deflect attention to culture war problems and pick the pockets. That old LBJ quote, but they've figured out how to do it for the progressives as well as the racists.