(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Chaz Bono is happy to be on Dancing with the Stars because America "needs" exposure to transgender issues.

Chaz will compete in the new series of the hit television show. In 2008 Chaz completed his gender transition from female to male and was legally ordained a man by the state of California in May 2010. A transgender advocate, Chaz addresses the controversy that has arisen as a result of his involvement with the show.

"It's made me realise I'm really glad I'm doing this, because America really needs to see this," Chaz told ABC News.

The new season has not yet premiered, and Chaz has been busy rehearsing with his dance partner Lacey Schwimmer. Chaz is not participating just to win the competition. His involvement with the show is of much more profound importance.

"You know, it just kind of shows why, for me, it's important to be on the show, because so little still is known about what it means to be transgender," Chaz explained. "And there's so many just completely inaccurate stereotypes and thoughts that people have."

Many have reached out in support of Chaz's efforts. His biggest backer is his mother, Cher.

"lovelies! Chaz is Being Viciously Attacked on Blogs & Message boards about being on DWTS! This is Still America right ? It took guts 2 do it.[sic]" Cher commented on Twitter.

Chaz has written several books on the subject of coming out and gender transformation, including Transition: The Story of How I Became a Man which was released in spring 2011. Dancing with the Stars premieres in America on September 19. (C) Cover Media