December 16, 2015
The Spectrum Center was thrilled to have helped organize and support a full week of events for Trans Awareness Week from November 15-23. The week began with an ally development training on gender identity and gender expression. The purpose of having the ally development training was to promote a campus community in which everyone is treated with respect and dignity, especially as we think about those who identify as transgender, gender non-conforming, gender non-binary, express beyond of masculinity or femininity, etc. Participants were able to grow in their personal awareness, knowledge, skills, and ability to act as social justice allies.
The week progressed with notable events such as a roundtable discussion of experiences and trans-inclusive care. The roundtable discussion was a great opportunity for those who identify across the trans spectrum (both students and community members) to share experiences with violence and discuss how dominant narratives about violence do and do not adequately capture the experiences of trans people.
Our 2015 Trans Youth Speak Out event was well attended with Riot Youth members sharing their experiences through art and dialogue concerning their experiences in school and beyond. The stories and conversations shared at this event provided adult allies with tools for them to help support trans youth within the community and create a positive, inclusive climate for all.
On November 17, the Spectrum Center had the privilege of hosting Jennicet Gutiérrez, a trans Latina woman and an organizer for Familiar: Trans Queer Liberation Movement, an organization that addresses, organizes, educates, and advocates for the issues most important to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) and Latino communities. During the event, she was able to speak about her life, her work as an activist and an organizer, followed by an audience Q & A session.
In honor of Trans Day of Remembrance, a memorial commemorating trans individuals killed by transphobia and cissexism was arranged on November 19. This community gathering event allowed us to honor trans living and the beauty and resiliency of trans lives.
Wrapping up the week, the Spectrum Center celebrated Trans Day with an all-day event filled with friends, food, and arts and crafts. We are truly proud of the events offered and the impact the week made for all involved.