2023
Workshops & Seminars
- Gender Affirming
A Body-Affirming Approach to Health & Happiness: Putting the Fun Back in Fritos
3:30 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Penn Harris B
The $73 Billion Diet Industry and the $808 Billion Health Care Industry would lead you to believe that the most successful pathway to health and happiness is through weight loss. But what if that hasn’t worked for you? And what about the damage dieting causes? Even when prescribed by a physician, dieting has serious physical and emotional side effects like weight cycling, preoccupation with food and body, disordered eating behaviors, decreased self-esteem, and depression. As a former chronic dieter, Health Coach and Intuitive Eating Counselor, Tracy Hess, helps her clients break free of diets and achieve greater physical, mental, and emotional health AND experience more pleasure in their relationship with food by embracing a non-restrictive Intuitive Eating approach. Learn how to drop the guilt and judgment of diets and enjoy eating again, all while achieving your health and wellness goals in this liberating seminar.
Interest Tags: Aging, Family/Friends, Gender Affirming, Military/Veterans, Non-Binary, Professional Education, Spouses/Signification Others, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color, Wellness, Youth
A Journey of Authenticity: A Transman Reflects on 38 Years
2:00 PM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Harrisburger A
This workshop deals with my experiences as a transman from the beginning of my journey in 1985 up to the present day. From the beginning with trying to understand my gender dysphoria before there was even a name for it, trying to seek out help and services where there was literally nothing available, and the factors involved in trying to make a momentous life altering decision when I had no one to talk to about it. I will explain the process of trying to talk to friends and family members about who I was and who I wanted to be when there was only derogatory language assigned to the process of being "transsexual". I share in detail my journey through the decades of employment challenges, social and physical changes, emotional relationships and finally arriving at a state of nirvana where there is self-acceptance, self-love and most of all - authenticity. I use my life experiences and the unique skill set that I have to educate people about the transgender experience. I provide instruction to local school boards in the Northeastern Pennsylvania area on how best to integrate transgender students into public school classrooms and curricula.
Interest Tags: Experience Sharing/Discussion, Gender Affirming, Image & Presentation, Non-Binary, Professional Education, Surgery, TransMasculine
Advances in Facial Feminization Surgery - The Art of Natural Results
10:30 AM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Harrisburger B
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
Workshop dedicated to educating patients and healthcare professionals on the most recent advances in facial feminization surgery. The audience will have an opportunity to understand the different techniques used in facial feminization surgery and preoperative surgical planning. The audience will have a better understanding on the journey patients must endure and how-to best guide patients and family thru the road of recovery.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Surgery
Affirming Lingerie Solutions for Trans Women
10:30 AM on
Fri, Mar 24
in United States
My name is Karyn Elizabeth Bello and I'm the founder of ZHE by Karyn Elizabeth.
ZHE is an inclusive lingerie brand that caters to the transgender community, specifically trans women and femme presenting folks.
I am also the mother of a trans woman and helping my daughter shop for affirming garments highlighted the lack of options for her and the community.
In this workshop I'd like to discuss a few things, including the roadblocks that trans women face in finding affirming undergarments. Also, the lack of availability in the fashion industry and how to try to break down those walls.
In addition, I'd like to talk about the brands that are available and what they are doing to try to bring gender affirming garments to the mainstream.
We will tackle tucking, the pros and cons, also how to safely tuck and the different ways to tuck ei: tape, gaffs and tucking underwear.
I'd love to also be able to have an open forum to discuss this issue and be able to answer questions.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Image & Presentation, TransFeminine, Wellness
Anti-Trans Legislation – What Is It Really All About and How Do We Combat It?
2:00 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Penn Harris A
Over the past several years hundreds of bills have been introduced in state, county, and local legislatures that are specifically targeting transgender individuals with discriminatory actions that threatened the ability of gender-expansive people to thrive. In this workshop you will get the deeper story of why a small group of legislators and political operatives are pushing these bills. We will then dive into a discussion regarding tactics that have been successfully used to combat these bills and how you can get involved.
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Gender Affirming, Legal, Non-Binary, Safety, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color, Workplace, Youth
Becoming a Mermaid
9:00 AM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Penn Harris A
At what point did you know you did not quite fit in? That there was something that was not quite ‘right’. "Gender is a reality, and a more fundamental reality than sex.” This will be an allegorical journey. We will take a deep dive into our reality in an effort to sea more clearly. Coming to congruence with who you are and how you got there is serious however…
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Family/Friends, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Relationships, Socializing, Spirituality/Religion, Wellness, Workplace, Youth
Below the Belt: How to Plan for Surgery
9:00 AM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Metropolitan A
9:00 AM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Penn Harris B
This will be a discussion of people who have started or completed genital surgeries and their experiences. Participants who feel comfortable will share their bodies live and some will send me respectful slides in advance for me to share on screen. This presentation is for AFAB Men, trans men and Trans masculine individuals who have had or want to learn more about lower surgeries or share their experience.
Booty and Bosom - It's What's Underneath That Counts!
3:30 PM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Penn Harris A
Proper feminine presentation is a major goal for those exploring their feminine side. While a lot of attention has been given to makeup and fashion (clothing, jewelry and shoes), foundation garments, like the structure of a house, are essential underpinnings for a realistic and natural look.
This workshop is a survey of the types of garments available today. It will discuss hip and butt pads, special undergarments, corsets and cinchers, breast forms and associated bras. Sample items will be shown, and discussion from attendees as to their personal experiences will be encouraged. This workshop will appeal to a wide range of individuals on the Transgender spectrum who wish to enhance and improve on their overall look and presentation.
Interest Tags: Experience Sharing/Discussion, Gender Affirming, Socializing, TransFeminine
Brows and Brow Sculpting
3:30 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Lochiel
10:30 AM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Harrisburger B
This is a seminar for the SOs about the emotional impact experienced as a result of the announcement by their spouse of the intention to present as, or to transition, to the opposite gender. Some SOs do not have support systems that understand both perspectives, that being, the elation of the transitioning spouse contrast with the angst of the SO. Some things that I have heard expressed is that the SO was lied to. That the transitioning spouse 'hid this from me'. Betrayal is another term used. Although I can see that perspective, I think there is a healthier point of view that can also allow the SO to process the situation and move beyond this. A lot of SOs have heard the cleansed version "I was just so upset" of the SO, but not the full-on development of the emotional state over time. At every step during the way, the SO often feels that things won't get better, can't get better and just might get worse.
But as we all know, there are many outcomes and just about all of them are positive. The workshop is SOs only to allow these attendees the opportunity to discuss this aspect - the sense of betrayal - in a room without feeling the need to edit.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Relationships, Spouses/Signification Others
Celebrating Trans Joy!
10:30 AM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Penn Harris B
Trans joy is about claiming one’s identity and celebrating it - and that is one of the best things about attending a conference like Keystone. When we are in and surrounded by Community it is easy to feel joyful. But what about when we leave? This interactive workshop will explore the concept of "Trans Joy" including how we can celebrate our transness 365 days a year, what that means for ourselves/others and how it can impact our community's future. Come, celebrate, and share your stories!
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Relationships, Socializing, Spouses/Signification Others, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color, Wellness, Youth
Consent, Boundaries, and Gender Dysphoria
2:00 PM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Lochiel
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
One in two transgender individuals are sexually abused or assaulted at some point in their lives. Some reports estimate that transgender survivors may experience rates of sexual assault up to 66 percent (U.S. Justice Dept). The transgender community could benefit as much as, if not more than, any people group from comprehensive sexual assault/domestic violence education. The problem is that these programs are not widely known and that most are not trans-inclusive. As a Prevention & Outreach Advocate myself, working in a dual SA/DV services agency in York, PA, I can attest to the ways in which popular curricula have adapted to be gender-inclusive in terms of what configuration partnerships take on (same-sex and heterosexual partnerships are often found in each set of scenarios/case-studies). As a transgender woman though, I can also attest to the ways that trans identities and trans problems are erased from these same curricula. Unfortunately, this contributes to a societal unspoken rule on trans silence: find yourself in the language and cultural norms of cissexism or don't participate at all.
Gender dysphoria, while not a universal trans experience, is an overwhelmingly common one. This workshop asks, "How do we teach consent differently if we take into account the unique sexualities of transgender people (BDSM, for example, is more common in our community than among the general public) and the bodily experience of gender dysphoria. We will learn the FRIES (Freely given, Reversible, Informed, Enthusiastic, Specific) and Safe, Sane, and Consensual models and explore how to apply, adapt, or change these to better serve our transgender siblings' specific needs.
Boundaries and consent are intrinsically tied. We learn what a boundary is and ways in which people set them, self-care for when a (non-sexual) boundary gets crossed, and common obstacles to setting boundaries (fear of abandonment, shame, embarrassment, etc.). Partners will be encouraged to support their partners learning to set boundaries. Conversation starters such as, "What does it look like when you get dysphoric" will go a long way toward understanding this change in the body, mind, and spirit as a kind of boundary. This is critically important if the dysphoria sufferer is unable to speak, due to disability, a physical impediment such as a gag, or a psychological dissociation/flashback.
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Professional Education, Relationships, Spouses/Signification Others, TransFeminine, TransMasculine
Diet Despair – The Uplifting Support Group for Anyone Struggling with Weight & Body Dissatisfaction
10:30 AM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Lochiel
Come prepared for a wave of compassion, love and support with this opportunity to share and learn real information about your health including effective tools to rediscover the joy of eating and a happier and healthier approach to loving your body. If you are worried about gaining weight from hormones, the stress of surgery and trauma of lifestyle change with transition, this is the group discussion for you led by former chronic dieter and Intuitive Eating Counselor Tracy Hess.
Drumming Circle - Unlock Inner Peace and Spark Personal Joy Through Sound & Play
2:00 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in William Penn
Ready to find your inner voice and move to the beat of your own drum? Join handpan musician and the founder of Super Bloom Women’s Handpan Retreat for an interactive and immersive drum circle, play lab, laughter (yoga) and more. Sarah believes that there are musical (creative) seeds in all of us. In cultivating curiosity and imagination these seeds grow, and eventually thrive, if we let them bloom in abundance. This directly ripples into other facets of life. In this Play Lab Workshop, we will explore new beginnings through sound exploration, with the handpan as our guide. The process of discovery doesn’t have to end just because we "become adults"! Channel your inner self, unlock the key to your next personal evolution and share a memorable experience you won’t discover at any other conference. This is an event like no other and you may be surprised the joy that fills your heart and the peace that radiates through your body.
No instrumental or musical experience necessary – all are welcome. Recommended to bring water and if you prefer, dress comfortably as you will have an option to sit in a chair or on the floor while holding the instruments.
Interest Tags: Aging, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Family/Friends, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Relationships, Safety, Socializing, Spirituality/Religion, Spouses/Signification Others, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color, Voice, Wellness, Youth
Engaging Eyes
9:00 AM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Harrisburger B
Eye makeup is extremely important in everyday makeup. It is the first thing you notice about someone. Good eye makeup can hide any flaws in your face by it simply being the center of attention. In this workshop you will learn how to properly set your eyes for the perfect eyeshadow. You will be shown a simple and natural day time look that can easily be transitioned into a smokey night-time look. We hope you can join this workshop and remember; lashes speak louder than words!
Interest Tags: Aging, Gender Affirming, Image & Presentation, Youth
Exploring Voice Feminization
2:00 PM on
Sat, Mar 25
in United States
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
This workshop is geared toward transgender and/or non-binary individuals who are interested in exploring voice feminization. This session will discuss the distinct components of the voice, the effects of adjusting those components, and how we can adapt each one to create new sounds and achieve your ideal, authentic voice. Breath support, pitch, intonation, resonance, and articulation will be addressed. If time permits, participants may have an opportunity to experiment with their own voices through guided tasks. Workshop will be led by voice-specialized, transgender speech-language pathologist, Arin Ayala, and his graduate extern, Dylan Tobias.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, TransFeminine, Voice
Exploring Voice Masculinization
10:30 AM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Metropolitan A
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
This workshop is geared toward transgender and/or non-binary individuals who are interested in exploring voice masculinization. This session will discuss the distinct components of the voice, the effects of adjusting those components, and how we can adapt each one to create new sounds and achieve your ideal, authentic voice. Breath support, pitch, intonation, resonance, and articulation will be addressed. If time permits, participants may have an opportunity to experiment with their own voices through guided tasks. Workshop will be led by voice-specialized, transgender speech-language pathologist, Arin Ayala, and his graduate extern, Dylan Tobias.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, TransMasculine, Voice
Feminine-Gender Affirmation Surgical Procedures
3:30 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Harrisburger A
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
This is an overview of feminizing surgical procedures. This lecture also focuses on the how to prepare for consultations, questions you should ask, how to prepare for surgery, healing from surgery and beyond. After this lecture, you will better understand the process of surgery and what to expect.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Surgery
Feminizing the Voice - Comparing Surgical Options
10:30 AM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Penn Harris B
Dr. Thomas reveals how vocal cords function using video recordings of male, female and surgically altered vocal cords. Pitch and resonance are affected by the anatomy as well as how the anatomy is used. Surgical modification of the voice, especially Feminization Laryngoplasty (FemLar), one type of vocal cord (laryngeal) surgery is designed to obtain a feminine sounding voice and correct complications from Tracheal Shave procedures. Several other types of procedures target the frequency or pitch of the resting speaking voice to various degrees. CricoThryoid Approximation (CTA), vocal cord webbing, laser vocal cord thinning and pharyngeal narrowing procedures will be discussed and compared to each other. Not only successful interventions are covered, but complications, durability, incomplete outcomes are discussed. Options for correcting complications of any laryngeal procedures are discussed. If you have experienced a voice change after a Tracheal Shave procedure, he will discuss the correction of this problem. At the conclusion of this lecture, the listener should better understand the concepts that can help in decision-making about the roles of voice therapy as well as when, if and what type of surgeries to consider.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Surgery, TransFeminine, Voice
Finding Your Voice As a Transgender Writer
3:30 PM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Harrisburger A
Increasingly, transgender viewpoints, and transgender ideology, have been drowned out in the cacophony of hateful rhetoric that comes at us on a daily basis. The transgender community must raise its voice against these existential threats: every voice matters, and every ally matters. Your unique viewpoint is important to share.
As an experienced professional writer, I want to share the tips, tricks, and insights I have gained over the last two years and discuss:
Why you should be writing - Why is it important to talk about our lives in our voice
Finding your voice - Writing and editing as skills
What Sells? - What are readers looking for? What grabs them?
Where is your market - resources - who wants to hear from the transgender?
I write enthusiastic, positive messages about transgender lives and the community. I believe that I can inspire others to take the pen and show how our lives are both unique and very ordinary. And in doing so, we can increase acceptance across all of society.
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Professional Education, TransFeminine, TransMasculine
Flawless Foundation
10:30 AM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Lochiel
The condition of our skin can make a huge difference to how confident and in control we feel each day. A seamless veil of the good stuff, blended imperceptibly with our own skin, in a shade perfectly suited to our skin tone can make all the difference. There's a lot to consider and know before applying your favorite foundation. This workshop covers how to prep the skin to make the foundation lay oh-so-perfectly and last all day You may get tired, but your make-up shouldn't!
Interest Tags: Aging, Gender Affirming, Image & Presentation, Youth
Free to Pee: Trans Access to Public Restrooms
9:00 AM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Harrisburger A
Public restrooms have become a major site of conflict over trans rights. This is nothing new in architectural history. The restroom has always been a cultural battlefield during periods of social change. Earlier battles addressed access by women, racial integration, access for people with disabilities, to list only the most obvious. The conflicts over trans access have neglected the importance of design in advancing social change. Although policy change is critical, in the end, design will determine whether trans access works well in our workplaces and civic spaces. We are now learning how to design public restrooms that transcend gender stereotypes and are also safer, easier to use, more convenient, increase privacy, and reduce anxiety for all building users. Building owners and the public need to know how to adopt best practices and the trans and gender diverse community is best prepared to help.
A university-based research team is learning how to advance trans inclusion. The team is conducting research and developing a public education program, including an exhibit and online resource, on inclusive restroom design. The workshop will describe the initiative and engage the attendees in helping to shape the further development of the project. The first half of the workshop will include a brief history of public restroom design, a description of the research, examples of best practices and a description of the educational program. The second half will focus on Q&A and discussion. The team is eager to obtain suggestions for improving the research and education methods and engage the trans and gender diverse community in its efforts. As part of the program, attendees will also be asked to submit stories of trans experience in restrooms, questions, and ideas, for inclusion in the planned exhibit and web resource.
Attendees will…
1. Learn about leading edge efforts to design and build inclusive restrooms
2. Learn how cisgender people perceive inclusive restroom designs
3. Learn how they can help improve trans inclusion through advocacy and education
4. Contribute to the public education and advocacy effort
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Aging, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Gender Affirming, Legal, Non-Binary, Professional Education, Safety, TransFeminine, TransPeople of Color, Wellness, Workplace, Youth
From Consideration to Recovery – How to Plan Ahead for the Practical Aspects of Gender Confirming Surgeries
2:00 PM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Bridgeport
Dozens of questions arise when planning any Gender Confirming Surgery. Many aspects are very personal, but there are common pragmatic considerations. What questions should I ask my doctor? What support will I need during recovery? For how long? Often you have no one with experience to guide you on the practical aspects of surgery. Google, YouTube, and your surgeon are all helpful resources, but none are very organized or give a comprehensive roadmap on what to expect and how to prepare yourself. Our workshop will look at preparing a step-by-step ‘Cope-Ahead Plan’ to ease the process and ensure your success. From questions to ask the surgeon to shopping lists for recovery, we will try to nail down everything you need to know and expect.
Interest Tags: Experience Sharing/Discussion, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Spouses/Signification Others, Surgery, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, Wellness
Gender Affirming Care for Youth
3:30 PM on
Sat, Mar 25
in United States
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
With the deluge of conflicting and confusing information available, it's hard for families of trans and gender-diverse youth to know where to turn. This workshop is designed to give families an overview of what gender affirming care looks like, how to access care, and how to best support youth and young adults in being their happiest and healthiest selves.
Interest Tags: Family/Friends, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Professional Education, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color, Youth
Gender Affirming Healthcare for Non-Binary Individuals
2:00 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Lochiel
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
Gender Affirming Healthcare can be a difficult thing to define, as it includes a variety of specialties and treatments. Fortunately, the World Professional Association of Transgender Health (WPATH) doesn't back down from the challenge! This workshop a *new* chapter in the most recent WPATH guidelines, on the care of nonbinary individuals.
Objectives:
Review gender affirming language/spectrum/definitions
Review WPATH recommendations for care of nonbinary individuals
Review recent research on reported life experiences, in binary vs. nonbinary identifying people
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Non-Binary
Getting Insurance To Pay For Hair Removal
2:00 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Harrisburger B
9:00 AM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Penn Harris A
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
When dissecting the current data as it relates HIV/AIDS acquisition and care for T/GNC persons it can be found that there has been an increase in HIV Transmission amongst Trans-Masculine folks over the last few years. Our presentation will be directed towards breaking down current data and the need for better data collection processes for the Trans community holistically. Trans Non-binary and Gender Non-Conforming folx are oftentimes completely erased from the data and research or grouped into other identities based on their "assigned sex at birth." Medical and HIV specific data is often broken down within the binary. With the recent addition of more trans-inclusive data, we have been able to identify additional priority populations that are at risk.
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color
Hair Today, Hair Tomorrow
9:00 AM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Penn Harris B
Offering knowledge on the nature of hair and hair loss. Helping others understand the wide variety of techniques, products and services available. Whether you are interested in working with the hair you have, keeping your own hair and adding to it, using your own hair as a base for more voluminous hair or completely covering your hair to have a whole new look. Teaching that hair issues occur with every type of person no matter how they arrived to life. And that almost any look can be achieved with proper products and techniques.
Hairway to Heaven
10:30 AM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Leland
Join us for an in-depth workshop about wigs and hair extensions, and gain knowledge about proper application, care, and styling techniques so you can feel like the best version of yourself.
#proudally #saferspace #hairhasnogender
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Family/Friends, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color, Wellness, Youth
Immersive Sound Meditation with the Handpan
3:30 PM on
Thu, Mar 23
in William Penn
Transition occurs on many levels and we are all collectively transitioning now from winter into spring, from the chaos of the outside world into inner peace. Join us for a break from the hustle and bustle of the conference with this relaxing immersive sound meditation which will be infused by the melodic, shamanic qualities of the handpan and frame drum. Interwoven with vocalizations, and an assortment of instruments inspired by the natural world – the 4 elements of Air, Wind, Water & Fire – we will oscillate between the stillness of silence and movement of sound to more deeply integrate elemental balance within.
Please arrive comfortably. There will be chairs available for a seated experience, and floor space for a more restful position laying down. Please bring a yoga mat, pillows or bolsters if you wish, and consider bringing water or tea for grounding afterward.
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Aging, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Family/Friends, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Professional Education, Relationships, Socializing, Spirituality/Religion, Spouses/Signification Others, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color, Voice, Wellness, Workplace, Youth
It's NOT Not Natural – The Biology of Sex and Gender
2:00 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Leland
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
The title makes reference to the frequent assertion that being transgender is not natural. Statements such as, “it goes against the laws of nature”, reflect a lack of understanding of sexual expression in the natural world. This raises the question, what do sex and gender really mean from a scientific perspective? This workshop will explore how the sexes differ, how they are similar, and how sexual expression and gender identity are more naturally viewed as a broad range of forms and behaviors. We will examine mechanisms of sex determination and development, including the roles of chromosomes, genes, hormones, and the environment. The extreme diversity of sexual expression in nature provides the basis for understanding, just what is natural?
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Professional Education, TransFeminine, TransMasculine
Legally Changing Your Name in Pennsylvania
10:30 AM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Governor
Completing a legal name change can feel intimidating. It can also be expensive! The good news is that it doesn’t have to be either of those things. Eastern PA Trans Equity Project has helped hundreds of Pennsylvania residents complete their legal name change and we want to help you too!
Join us as we demystify the legal name change process and provide the guidance you need to complete your legal name change without having to incur the expense of an attorney.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Legal, Non-Binary, Safety, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color, Wellness, Workplace, Youth
Living with Crossdressing: Discovering Your True Identity
3:30 PM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Leland
Are you living with a partner who is a crossdresser? Are you living with the knowledge that you are a male crossdresser? Are you a cis-woman partner of a man who crossdresses? Are you struggling with what it means to be in a relationship with a man who you have discovered – by accident or his own admission – enjoys wearing feminine clothing?
Join me as I set out to uncover some of the reasons why so many men (including myself) dress as women.
Discover real couples who are looking for a new balance in their relationships, including the point of views of the women who decided to stand by their... ahem... men as they learn to better understand their crossdresser and learn how to cope and thrive.
Somewhere amid the misconceptions, stereotypes, and ignorance is the truth about non-transitioning, non-fetish, crossdressing men. But more than that is the strength and care of the women who continue to love and support them.
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Relationships, Spouses/Signification Others
Management of Complications in Gender Affirming Surgery
2:00 PM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Harrisburger B
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
The audience will learn and understand the key steps in avoiding complications after feminizing genital surgery. The target audience will understand how to manage complications after vaginoplasty, future directions and the road to recovery for patients and family members.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Surgery
Manifesting Body Euphoria through Movement
10:30 AM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Bridgeport
Jules X. Grace is a trans non-binary, gender expansive dancer with over ten years of experience in solo and partner dance styles. Through these ten years, dance and movement practices have been some of the main portals to gender euphoria for them. As they learned how to free their body from expected movement types and roles, they found that this same movement gave them new ideas about freeing themselves from oppressive expectations and roles of sexuality and gender. This workshop will be an exploration in solo and partner movement with dance stylings from ecstatic dance, fusion dance, vogue, contemporary and contact improv. We will dive into practicing movement solo and in partnerships as both a lead and a follow.
Come along on a journey of music and movement as you are invited to find your own portals to gender euphoria. Comfortable clothing is suggested but not required.
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Aging, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Family/Friends, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Socializing, Spirituality/Religion, Spouses/Signification Others, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color, Wellness, Youth
Masculine-Gender Affirmation Surgical Procedures
2:00 PM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Penn Harris B
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
This is an overview of masculinizing surgical procedures. This lecture also focuses on the how to prepare for consultations, questions you should ask, how to prepare for surgery, healing from surgery and beyond. After this lecture, you will better understand the process of surgery and what to expect.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Surgery, TransMasculine
Medical Conditions That Can Affect Your Transition Experience
3:30 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Governor
There are medical issues that you may need to be aware of when going through transition / HRT. Medical teams are not always aware of them, so you may need to be your own advocate, as they can affect the effectiveness of your treatments.
I will share my experiences with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia, Hypo-Thyroidism, Reverse Ossification, and others and how they have affected my medical transition experience over time.
Interest Tags: Experience Sharing/Discussion, Gender Affirming, Professional Education, Surgery, Wellness
My Life Today as a Transgender Woman
3:30 PM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Lochiel
Living a normal life being happy and my true self as a woman, but God had other plans for me.
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Aging, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Family/Friends, Gender Affirming, Military/Veterans, Non-Binary, Relationships, Socializing, Spirituality/Religion, Surgery, TransFeminine, TransPeople of Color, Workplace
Packing, Peeing and Prosthetics for Trans-Masculine Folks (age 18+ only)
3:30 PM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Metropolitan A
Have you ever bought something in helps that it would relieve dysphoria? Many folks do, but unfortunately many times the items aren't what we expected, or they don't work as advertised. Why throw away good money with bad products? As a product tester and reviewer, Mason has tried hundreds of products including binders, packers, prosthetics, and other adult items. He will speak about many of the products currently on the market. You will leave with an understanding of all the variables to picking an item that's right for you! He will also bring sample items that you can optionally touch and compare for a more hands on experience.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, TransMasculine, Wellness
Primer on Name Change: Planning for the Current Legal Process in Your State
2:00 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in United States
This seminar will introduce the general legal requirements for the formal name change process in your state. It will review the petition requirements, what additional steps may be required, whether advertising is required or avoidable, and what to expect at the hearing. Lastly, it will discuss what you need to do to update your legal documents to your new name including social security, passports, and driver’s licenses.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Legal, Non-Binary, Safety, TransFeminine, TransMasculine
Relationship Priorities: Using Communication and Compassion to Work Through Transition
9:00 AM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Leland
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
Discussions often focus on the needs of the transitioning transgender individual, somewhat exclusive to the needs of the relationship with a partner. This seminar will turn the focus to the relationship between the transgender person and their spouse or significant other. Transition is a very difficult time for a couple, and frequently leads to the loss of the relationship. Your presenter does not believe that this has to be the inevitable outcome and hopes to offer her experience with her late spouse Jude, and that of friends and acquaintances who have gone through transition of a partner, in the hope that others can find these experiences useful. Aspects discussed includes "couples' transition" and skills in languaging and negotiation, managing expectations and maintaining open lines of communication. These approaches are proven techniques in couples counseling and helped tremendously during Jude's transition. Please come join us for discussions and a few exercises that can help bring a new understanding to the power of language and negotiation.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Professional Education, Relationships, Spouses/Signification Others, TransFeminine, TransMasculine
Shades of You
2:00 PM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Leland
10:30 AM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Harrisburger B
Stories are powerful things. They can challenge and inspire us. They also help us to connect to each other. By sharing your gender journey story, your challenges, hopes, dreams, and joys you can make important connections. If the story is well thought out and communicated, it can provide compelling context into who you are and an understanding of the “why” behind your gender journey. In this presentation, you will hear video-taped accounts of gender-journey stories from Rabbi Levi Alter and Rev. Monica Joy Cross and what happened as a result of their sharing. Attendees will have an opportunity to frame and share their gender story in a small group. As a minister to the transgender community for over 20 years, I have seen how coming out as trans and attempting to maintain relationships can be difficult to navigate. Although support for those who identify as transgender is gaining advocates, many in business and mainstream faith communities are just ignorant of transgender issues, and therefore unsupportive. Telling our stories can help to change that.
The workshop includes: 1. Workshop outline that covers the how, when, why, who and what of sharing your gender story. This tool will help you understand your motives, who you need to share to and the best timing on when to share your gender journey. 2. There will be a worksheet available for partners and advocates which will cover, “How to support a loved-one’s, partner’s or friend’s gender journey.” 3. Identify potential problem areas with business, family, friends and spiritual community relationships as you share your gender journey. 4. Learn how to connect with others by partnering with them and supporting their stories. 5. Understand the difference between what we want to communicate, what we actually communicate, and how it is received. 6. Age-specific information and how to present it when sharing your story.
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Family/Friends, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, Relationships, Socializing, Spirituality/Religion, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color
The Path to Gender-Affirming Surgery and Recovery: What to Expect
9:00 AM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Lochiel
Gender-affirming Surgeries are physical changes to the face and body with the primary purpose of improving one’s mental health and emotional well-being. That’s a lot to absorb. It can also be challenging to be an informed consumer in this surgical marketplace. There are so many questions: Who’s the right surgeon for me? Who will I look like after surgery? What is recovery like? With any gender-affirming surgery, most patients will heal twice. As the face and body physically heal, the authentic self will be revealed. As the True Self shines, it’s emotional healing time! Transitioning is a long road for many. It is important to support each other along the way: in every and in all possible ways.
Juliana discusses the TEAMS Program at The Spiegel Center and shares openly about her transition and her connection with the trans community.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Surgery, Wellness
The Transformative Power to Choose Love
2:00 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Bridgeport
Rev. Dr. Kathryn Helms shares a message of love and hope in the telling of the story of her youngest adult child coming out as transgender male to female approximately one year ago. She speaks of her personal experience as a mom to choose love and shares the love lessons her transgender daughter has taught her. Discussion of their one-year collaboration to write their newest book The Underwater Ballerina: Two Sides to Transition- The Story of a Daughter’s Transition Told Through the Eyes of Herself and her Mother will be included. Personally signed copies or pre-orders will be available for purchase at the workshop.
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Experience Sharing/Discussion, Family/Friends, Gender Affirming, Relationships, Voice
Trans Truth... Finding Your Way
9:00 AM on
Thu, Mar 23
in Harrisburger B
3:30 PM on
Thu, Mar 23
in United States
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
The presentation will address the multiple traumas encountered by trans* individuals throughout their lifetime. This will include microaggressions, traumas related to daily encounters and brain/body incongruence, and trauma related to systems in which the individuals live. The presentation will, also, address the larger traumas encountered in the forms of transphobia, abuse, and discrimination. Our political climate has altered increasingly since 2016, effecting the trans* community from childhood through adulthood, as well as and the families and professions who support them. Where progress had been achieved, a return to historical phobias and more extensive political oversite now exists due to false facts presented by our political leaders and religious extremists. The current trends, their current impacts, and potential long-term consequences will be addressed in shared examples of client reports in sessions. In addition, statistics and facts established in the previous research conducted by institutions such as the University of Washington related to daily traumas experienced prior to this political change will be shared.
Interest Tags: Advocacy, Family/Friends, Gender Affirming, Legal, Non-Binary, Spouses/Signification Others, TransFeminine, TransMasculine, TransPeople of Color
Transfeminine Face and Body Surgical Options
9:00 AM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Penn Harris B
Considering surgery to change your appearance to more closely align with your feminine gender identity? This workshop will explore the physical characteristics that are typically associated with gender and surgical options available to address them. The workshop will include researching and selecting a surgeon, available surgical procedures, the importance of aftercare and potential risks. The workshop will include before and after photo's and x-rays of the presenters journey.
Interest Tags: Gender Affirming, Image & Presentation, Surgery, TransFeminine
Transgender Sports Participation
10:30 AM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Harrisburger A
10:30 AM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Leland
*This workshop qualifies for Continuing Education Credit
VA Medical Centers and VA Community Clinics provide a full range of primary care, mental health, medical specialty and surgical care options for ALL qualified Veterans including members of the LGBTQ+ community. This workshop will review the most recent VHA directives regarding health care specifically for LGBTQ+ Veterans and how all VHA medical centers and community clinics are prepared to treat the healthcare of qualified Veterans no matter what their gender identity is. Come hear how VHA supports healthcare for our LGBTQ+ Veterans.
Interest Tags: Experience Sharing/Discussion, Gender Affirming, Military/Veterans, Spouses/Signification Others
Where Do You Fit Under the Transgender Umbrella?
3:30 PM on
Fri, Mar 24
in Bridgeport
Not sure where you fit, let's talk about it. The transgender community is a beautiful bouquet of labels and identities. How do you know where you belong, and which is the right path for you? Do you align with the idea of being binary but struggle with enjoying the duality of being male and female? Do you connect less with being binary and feel more gender fluid or non-binary? Are you living a dual gender life voluntarily or because you feel you can't or shouldn't transition? In this open group discussion, led by S. Lisa Smith, all attendees are welcome to contribute their feelings and questions with the group in their journey of self-discovery. The only valid definition is the one you create!!!
Interest Tags: Experience Sharing/Discussion, Gender Affirming, Non-Binary, TransFeminine, TransMasculine
Yes! You Can Become an LGBTQ+ Advocate
9:00 AM on
Sat, Mar 25
in Governor
