Trans Empowerment and Advocacy Week
The Intercultural Center and the University of Maryland School of Social Work's (UMSSW) Queer Community Alliance invite you to a series of events in honor of Trans Empowerment and Advocacy Week. These events are an opportunity to deconstruct gender norms, gain practical tools in supporting trans clients, and build community for trans students, staff, and faculty at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB).
Deconstructing Cis-Heteronormativity in Learning Environments
Thursday, Nov. 17 | 12-1 p.m. | Virtual — Zoom | Register here for Nov. 17
In this session, Dr. Gregory Brightbill will discuss the overt and covert ways in which cis-heteronormativity shows up in our learning environments. Cis-heteronormativity is the belief that cisgender and heterosexual people are the only "normal" and "natural" expressions of gender and sexuality. In naming these harmful dominant standards, instructors and students will be able think critically and practice inclusively with their trans and LGBQ+ patients and clients.
Gender Affirming Letter Writing Training
Friday, Nov. 18 | 3:15-5 p.m. | Virtual — Zoom | Register here for Nov. 18
In this training, participants will be able to learn how to write a gender affirming surgery letter. Participants will also gain a critical understanding of trans experiences in health care and barriers to quality care. Please note that while this training is open to all, the practice of writing a gender affirming surgery letter is directly applicable to mental health professionals and students, including those with a LSCW-C or LCSW or who are studying for their master's degree.
Trans Day of Remembrance with Baltimore Safe Haven*
Sunday, Nov. 20 | Vigil at 2 p.m. | Ceremony at 5 p.m. | YNot Lot (4 W. North Ave., Baltimore) | Learn more here
Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is an annual observance on Nov. 20 that honors the memory of transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence. This event will be hosted by Baltimore Safe Haven, a nonprofit organization that provides services and resources for TLGBQ people in Baltimore.
*This event is not affiliated with the University of Maryland, Baltimore.
Trans Day of Resilience Community Dinner
Monday, Nov. 21 | 5-6:30 p.m. | Room 2E29 — School of Social Work (525 W. Redwood St.) | Register here for Nov. 21
The Intercultural Center and UMSSW's Queer Community Alliance will host a community dinner to honor and celebrate trans students, staff, and faculty at UMB. Please note that this event is capped to 20 registrants.