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transfaithincolor.org — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 08:53:38 -0400

[size=][size=]TRANSFAITH SUMMIT 2010[/size][/size]
[size=]A National Transgender Interfaith Gathering[/size]

[size=]October 8th-10th
Radisson Westside Los Angeles Hotel[/size]
Sponsored by The Freedom Center for Social Justice

REGISTRATION IS FREE

LIMITED NUMBER OF SCHOLARSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE FOR TRAVEL AND/OR ROOMS

For More Details Please Visit www.transfaithincolor.org

[size=]SCHEDULE FOR TRANSFAITH SUMMIT 2010[/size]

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 8TH

Noon Opening Luncheon Keynote: Archbishop Carl Bean
Featured Speaker:TBA

2-3:15 PM Plenary: Health Care (Wilbert Jordan, Jennifer Barge)

3:30-4:45 PM
A. Living Life: FTM
B. Living Life: MTF

5-7 PM Welcome Reception

7 PM Film: Still Black (Kortney Ryan Ziegler)

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9TH

8-9:15 AM Breakfast

9:30-10:45 AM
A. Partners of Transfolk
B. Dating

11-12:15 PM Interfaith Panel: Transgender Across Faith Traditions

12:30-2:00PM Award Luncheon Keynote: Jamison Green
Featured Speaker: Miss Major
Musical Guest: Transcendence Gospel Choir

2:15-3:30 PM
A. Gender Variance in the Christian Tradition:
A Deeper Look
B. Gender Variance in the Jewish Tradition: A Deeper Look

3:45-5:00PM
A. Creating Truly Trans-Inclusive and Welcoming
Environments: A Conversation for Clergy
B. Legal Matters

7-10 PM BrightLIFE Talent Showcase, Featuring BeBe Zahara Benet
Attire: Creative Elegance
Fee: $35.00*

* BrightLIFE is an event sponsored by our 2010 host organization The Unity Fellowship Church Movement (www.unityfellowshipchurchmovement.org). While participation in the TransFaith Summit is free, BrightLife is not.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10TH

8:30-10 AM Interfaith Worship Service and Closing Ceremony

FREEDOM CENTER FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE * P.O. Box 37131, Charlotte, NC 28371 *
www.FCSJ.org * info@FCSJ.org

Transgender Religious Leaders Summit November 2010

RandallKlein — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 09:09:51 -0400

Cosponsored by CLGS (The Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry) at Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, California and HRC (Human Rights Campaign)

Transgender Religious Leaders Summit 2010
Transcending Tolerance & Transforming Faith Communities Through Education

Friday Night, November 5th, and Saturday November 6th, 2010

at the PACIFIC SCHOOL of RELIGION, 1798 Scenic Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94709

Education is at the core of this Summit�s objectives. It is more important today than ever to develop and utilize workable education models for transgender inclusion. Too long has inclusion taken a backseat to tolerance. Our faith-communities must be transformed in their understanding
so they see their transgender congregants as full persons and a valuable resource. Many of the concerns, issues and obstacles we face in our congregations are similar. Although our faiths traditions may be different, we can come together around the following goals:

1. The full inclusion of transgender people in our faith communities
2. The creation of educational models for understanding transgender persons and our issues
3. The identification and overcoming of cultural and religious obstacles
4. The development of a common language around trans people and our issues

It is important to create environments of inclusion in our faith communities so those that need support may obtain it. We believe that obstacles to inclusion are large but not insurmountable.

Representatives affiliated with the following organizations will conduct seminars on their organizations� educational curricula on trans persons and trans issues:

� The Institute for Welcoming Resources
� Unitarian Universalist Congregations
� More Light Presbyterian
� The Human Rights Campaign (HRC)
� Keshet / Jewish Mosaic
� Lutherans Concerned

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Justin Tanis, Community Education and Outreach Manager, The National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE)

Justin has worked in the LGBT non-profit field for over 20 years as a community organizer, manager, educator and program specialist. He holds degrees from Mount Holyoke College, Harvard University, and San Francisco Theological Seminary, as well as certificates in graphic design and multimedia design. He is the author of Transgender Ministry, Theology and Communities of Faith. Prior to working at NCTE, he served as Director of Leadership Development for an international organization serving the
spiritual needs of LGBT people.

Other 2010 SUMMIT Highlights will include:

Presentations of Transgender Community Outreach programs from United Church of Christ, City of Refuge - Transcending Ministry, MCC Metropolitan Community Church, and more!

Pastors Panel: Q&A session with Pastor�s who have welcoming and affirming programs in place.

Special Music Presentations: Including the renowned Transcendence Gospel Choir

TAKE-a-WAYS: Video and Audio Recordings of Meetings, hand outs and follow ups.

COMING SOON: Watch for additional information and a complete Summit outline - www.clgs.org

For more information please contact Summit Organizer:
Randall Klein, Light in the Closet, PO Box 1208, Oakley, CA 94561
PHONE: 925-586-4651 * email: rklein (at) lightinthecloset[dot]org
________________________________________________________________________

REGISTRATION:
Registration Fee for 2010 SUMMIT (please check boxes that apply):

___ Full Participation: $45.00
___ Student Rate $20.00
___ Early Registration: $35.00 (Register by September 1st, 2010)
___ I would appreciate being considered for a scholarship.
___ Please contact me, I would like to help out.
___ I would like to contribute to the Scholarship Fund.

Includes Meetings: Full Friday night and Saturday participation
Includes Meals: Buffet dinner Friday, Saturday breakfast, lunch and snacks

Name _____________________________________________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip ______________________________________________________

Phone ( _________ ) _________________________________________________

Email _____________________________________________________________

Please pay by check made out to �CLGS�
PRINT and MAIL TO: TRLC 2010, Light in the Closet Ministry, PO Box 1208, Oakley, CA 94561

Gender Identity and Our Faith Communities workshop comes to Richmond, VA

jblotner — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:38:03 -0400

Please join People of Faith for Equality in Virginia and MCC of Richmond on Saturday, September 11 to take part in the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's "Gender Identity and Our Faith Communities" workshop. All are invited! We encourage you to RSVP:

www.hrc.org/GenderFaithCherryHill
(RSVPs help us plan our printing needs)

The workshop facilitator and the exact times are still pending confirmations but will be announced soon.

Find the latest information about this workshop online at the following links:
- www.hrc.org/GenderFaithRichmond
- http://www.hrc.org/issues/religion/11618.htm

Feel free to spread the word - thanks!

~ joanna

Joanna Blotner
Religion & Faith Program Coordinator
Human Rights Campaign Foundation

Gender Identity and Our Faith Communities workshop comes to Cherry Hill, NJ

jblotner — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:32:49 -0400

Please join the Unitarian Universalist Church in Cherry Hill on Saturday, September 25 from 10 - 2 to take part in a special regional workshop of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's Gender Identity and Our Faith Communities curriculum. All are invited and encouraged to RSVP:

www.hrc.org/GenderFaithCherryHill
(RSVPs help us plan the catering and printing needs)

Allyson Robinson will be facilitating this workshop.

Find more information online at the following links:
- www.hrc.org/GenderFaithCherryHill
- http://www.hrc.org/issues/religion/11618.htm

Feel free to spread the word - thanks!

~ joanna

Joanna Blotner
Religion & Faith Program Coordinator
Human Rights Campaign Foundation

SCC Christian Haven

axandraf — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 23:20:08 -0400

My Name is Angela and I am a local Atlanta TG Christian.
I am interested in hosting a safe haven & Bible Study workshop for Christians at the 2010 SCC.
Please contact me if you are interested in attending.
Thanks,
Angela
axandraf (at) bellsouth[dot]net

Philly area - Transgender Artist funding

noach — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 02:41:58 -0400

http://www.leeway.org/apply-for-grants/about-the-grants.html

I AM Transgender

susanmilani — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 17:16:04 -0400

Dear Ones:
Susan Marie Paige is a transgender is a very small town. Believe me most who would walk in my shoes would of folded by now. I have been living as a woman in most all my activities. I work as a guy and purchase items from the 2 stores i work at a a guy. I go to public library and court house as a guy.
Why? I am going thru a divorce with 16 month span now. I am not dragging it out but now I am putting legal pressure on her and taking here dear things away from her legally.
I love shopping as a woman going to Kohls and try on clothes and purchase. Watching for those sale items. I got Apt 9 clothes for little of nothing 30% off coupon and were on sale all ready. Some even in discount rack. I look great in Apt 9 they are just a little classy.
I go fishing and swimming as myself a woman. I go as a woman camping an bicyling and canoeing. Lately been to dancing 50 /60 in my Poodle skirt.
I am standard physical Transgender woman. MtF. I have breast and a waist and a very nice figure. I have my own long hair dark brown just past my shoulders.
I enjoy my ministry I have in Jesus Christ now. Healing Ministry. I was officially anointed last Saturday night to go forth. Anointed with oil. hallelujah.
HOpe these stories from Manchester Iowa are of interest.
Susan Marie Paige

Mass/Eucharist at the Philadelphia Trans Health Conference

lcalizo — Mon, 31 May 2010 13:37:56 -0400

Join us on Friday night at 7:30pm at the Trans Health Conference in Philadelphia for Mass/Eucharist celebrated by the Rt. Rev. Dr. Lynn Elizabeth Walker, a transgender bishop in the Orthodox-Catholic Church of America. We invite clergy who are attending to vest and be there as a visible, supportive presence.

This liturgy will be familiar to those raised in the Roman Catholic, Episcopal, Lutheran, and other similar worship traditions. Everyone is welcome to this service, and a guide to the liturgy will be provided so that all may participate. This event is sponsored by Dignity Philadelphia (Roman Catholic) and St. Mary of Grace Parish (Independent Catholic Christian Church).

I AM Transgender

jonichristian — Wed, 19 May 2010 18:11:54 -0400

I AM Transgender...
a spiritual blessing.

It is a personal reflection of "what the title says to you."

I would like to get a collection of stories that experience the spirit of the stillspeaking God.

This is truly a subjective effort on your own experience.

I, personally have come to embrace the name, 'transgender.'

I believe that this is a spiritual blessing to me, such as the term 'twin spirit.'

I believe that God has given me this beautiful name to express the divine balance of the masculine and the feminine. There is male and female.

I AM transgender. I was called to take this name, just as Peter was given his name.

I AM Transgender

marthajoy7 — Wed, 19 May 2010 17:27:47 -0400

I would also be interested in what you have in mind. Joy and I have a brief bit of our story already published in a book called "Together in Love" by Roberta Krieder.
But basically just about transition time period.

Martha Montgomery

I AM Transgender

jonichristian — Tue, 18 May 2010 19:39:33 -0400

Will it focus around only the UCC or will it seek out the experiences of persons of other religions?

"No matter who you are, or where you are on life's journey,
you're welcome here."

When I get everyone's story of what 'I AM Transgender' means to them,

we will compile the best, and submit a proposal to Pilgrim Press(UCC's own publishing arm),the oldest publisher in the US.

Do you have a dead line in mind to have all out thoughts turned in?

I would like to start the compiling by the end of summer, giving everyone plenty of time to focus and feel comfortable with their offering.

We can take the rest of the year to finalize, hoping to have something on our first anniversary.

It can take as long as it takes,
let go & let God.

I AM Transgender

divinelychosen — Tue, 18 May 2010 15:11:33 -0400

Sounds very interesting INDEED! What type of stuff are you looking for exactly?

I AM Transgender

genvee — Mon, 17 May 2010 16:07:05 -0400

Sounds interesting, Joni. What type of stories are you looking for?

Gennee

I AM Transgender

jonichristian — Fri, 14 May 2010 19:54:08 -0400

I need to see if there is any interest in helping me write a book, a collection of stories. I AM Transgender... A Spiritual Blessing

Second Annual Transgender Religious Leaders* Luncheon (June 2, 2010; Philadelphia, PA)

cpaige — Wed, 05 May 2010 11:28:06 -0400

Hi Kristen,

Yes, there are lots of spirituality workshops. Plus some additional activities. Please check out the workshops listed at http://www.trans-health.org. I'm trying to pull together final text to post some additional opportunities that are not workshops. Please consider joining us.

Chris

Second Annual Transgender Religious Leaders* Luncheon (June 2, 2010; Philadelphia, PA)

kleigh — Wed, 05 May 2010 11:24:08 -0400

Blessings Chris,
Are there any other Religious events or activities planned during this time? I know Trans Health is vitally important but as I am primarily involved in ministry that is my primary focus. Just thought I would ask. The two events planned are wonderful to be sure but alas I am protestant so the Sunday evening event would not see me as a primary recipient of the message. I will look forward to the re-scheduled Religious Leaders Summit.

Shalom
<><
Kristen Leigh

Second Annual Transgender Religious Leaders* Luncheon (June 2, 2010; Philadelphia, PA)

cpaige — Tue, 04 May 2010 23:37:59 -0400

It's not too late to join us in Philly! I'm seeing some low airfares to Philly right now from all over...

http://www.airfarewatchdog.com/cheap-flights/to-philadelphia-pennsylvania/1832/?source=nl_type_awd_arrival&value=2010-05-04%2000:00:00&r=&h=79b1350b4d1405350d75e1838ff6e799&n=4830465&u=AEEF0AFA01&argschk=1

Second Annual Transgender Religious Leaders* Luncheon (June 2, 2010; Philadelphia, PA)

cpaige — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 01:44:09 -0400

I hope you're considering coming to Philly! Please spread the word to friends and colleagues so this year's event can be another great meet-up opportunity! Check out http://www.trans-health.org where workshop details for the Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference (June 3-5, 2010) are starting to be available. The spirituality workshops are extensive!

The Second Annual Transgender Religious Leaders* Luncheon
at the Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference
Wednesday, June 2, 2010, Noon-5pm
Center City, Philadelphia, PA

Because the 2009 luncheon was so well received, we have decided to expand the luncheon this year. It will be a PTHC pre-event on June 2, 2010, in the Center City area of Philadelphia, PA -- not far from the Convention Center. We will gather for lunch at noon and have the community space reserved until 5pm to spend time together breaking bread, networking, sharing strategies, and visioning for the future. This will be a semi-programmed time, intended to let the creative spirit move among us in healing and empowering ways -- with a strong emphasis on nurturing connections among luncheon participants. Late comers are welcome to join us through out the afternoon, as travel plans allow.

Lunch and the afternoon together are free, sponsored by TransFaith Online. However, donations will be welcome to help cover hospitality costs and the on-going efforts of TransFaith Online to build transgender religious community. Dinner is on your own at any nearby establishment, and participants will be encouraged to continue their conversations into dinner and through the next several days of conferencing.

Pre-registration is required at http://www.transfaithonline.org/transhealth/register (so we can be sure to order enough food!). The menu will be vegetarian. Please note any further dietary restrictions in your registration.

*What is a Transgender Religious Leader?

Clergy and non-clergy. Transsexual, genderqueer, cross-dresser, or still trying to figure it out. With or without seminary training. Stealth or trans-religious poster-child. Christian, Jewish, Pagan, Buddhist, and more. Decades of experience or just getting started. Our goal here is to nurture community among people who want to contribute to or be a part of transgender religious organizing.

SPECIAL BONUS WEDNESDAY EVENING!

Please join us Wednesday evening at 7pm for the east coast launch of the new anthology, Balancing on the Mechitzah: Transgender in Jewish Community, edited by Noach Dzmura, an activist for transgender inclusion in the Bay Area Jewish communities and a consultant for Jewish Mosaic: The National Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity.

Mr. Dzmura will introduce and read selections from the text to illustrate the celebrations and challenges of transgender Jewish life from all points on the gender spectrum, including work by a strictly observant Orthodox transsexual woman, a liberal Reform masculine-spectrum genderqueer rabbi, a secular FTM psychologist, and an MTF academic and ritualist who teaches at an Orthodox university. As time permits, Dzmura will show how insight might be found in Jewish texts about how communities can begin to adapt to the changes required by genders and bodies that no longer fit a rigid two-gender system.

The event will be held at Congregation Rodeph Shalom (615 North Broad Street), beginning at 7pm, and will be of interest to Jewish and non-Jewish participants of all genders. Sponsors include Congregation Rodeph Shalom, Congregation Beth Ahavah, Congregation Mishkan Shalom, the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, the YES! Coalition, and TransFaith Online. The program is free and open to the public.

Weds Night: http://www.yescoalitionphilly.org/news/20100602

CANCELLED -- 4th Annual Transgender Religious Leaders Summit (Cambridge, MA; April 16-18, 2010)

sfhilary — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 09:08:11 -0400

I work in the event industry and this economy has been very hard on associations of every size and i can report many meeting being canceled this year due to funding. Also I understand that the National Center for Transgender Equality had been a sponsor withdrew support this year. They are primarily a political organization who had provided seed money for a spiritual movement during the Bush administration when almost nothing could be done nationally. Now that the hate crimes bill has passed they are involved with trainings and ENDA is within weeks of being voted on. They had to put their resources back into politics.

CANCELLED -- 4th Annual Transgender Religious Leaders Summit (Cambridge, MA; April 16-18, 2010)

cpaige — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:38:46 -0400

Noach,

You would need to inquire with the various co-sponsors for specifics of what fell apart. Sean Delmore, who was a key organizer, is online here in the network. Perhaps he will comment or you could ask him directly. Several representatives from ICTE are also online here: Mycroft, Cameron.

Below is the official statement from Bernie at CLGS. Bernie Schlager is also part of the Network.

The Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies (CLGS) has decided to postpone to a later date our fourth annual Transgender Religious Leaders Summit previously scheduled for mid-April of 2010 in Massachusetts. We hope to reschedule the Summit for sometime in late 2010 or early 2011.

CANCELLED -- 4th Annual Transgender Religious Leaders Summit (Cambridge, MA; April 16-18, 2010)

noach — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 13:37:11 -0400

Any idea why?

N

TransForm New Hampshire Call for Presenters (July 23-25, 2010, Concord, NH)

transmanaz — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 11:33:52 -0400

FUN - EDUCATION - FOOD - COMMUNITY - ENTERTAINMENT

An event to bring awareness to the specific needs and special circumstances within the Trans community, and educate all those open to gaining new insights and knowledge of this special group within the LGBT.

TransForm Community events are held in various cities across the nation to educate and raise awareness within the gay, lesbian, and bisexual community and the broader public on the transgender community, and to encourage unity as we learn to live amongst each other and share in our continued fight for LGBT equality. Please see the website for more information on our events. http://transform.transmentors.org

We are currently accepting applications for Workshop Presenters for the New Hampshire event.

Workshop Presenters will address gender & trans-related issues in order to inform and educate the non-trans (cis-) community. This includes specifically addressing similarities as well as the differences between the LGB and the T community.

Each Workshop must fit into a single 40 minute time period. If you need a double time-slot, please let us know; however, we cannot guarantee this.

Workshop Presenters receive no monetary compensation or reimbursement for expenses.

Please see http://transform.transmentors.org/nh/presenterapp.html for the online application.

TransForm New Hampshire 2010
July 23-25th

We are also looking for additional speakers and musical entertainment for the Community Picnic on Sunday afternoon.

Please contact us at the email below if you'd like to participate in the New Hampshire event or one of our other events.

For more information, email mmaed (at) transmentors[dot]org

Interview - Transman Yvo about his spiritual struggle

yvo — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 16:18:11 -0500

On June 11 1960 Yvo Manuel Vas Dias was born as a girl. Now, after more than 49 years and numerous hormone treatments and operations, Yvo is a man. Psychologically he had been a man for a lot longer, always actually, but he kept putting off cosmetic changes because Yvo wanted to find peace with his spiritual self first. His Jewish background and interest in religion were in that sense extra challenges, because how could he justify his actions before God? He found answers, and in order to help others who found themselves in the same situation, he founded the working group transgender, religion, philosophy of life and ethics. �Everyone has his or her own psychological shit, but as a transgender you have to literally and figuratively go through the pain.�

'...transmen find manhood through the body of a woman' Pat Walsh

As a child Yvo was very solitary. Due to all kinds of physical complaints he was often admitted to hospital, but he could mostly be found in his room. Then he did not want to be disturbed, and he liked to hang a small notice board on the door which read �Do not disturb�. He explored boundaries by racing around on a borrowed scooter. Yvo: �I was a child who liked to day dream, a true romantic. I liked to visualize myself with a guitar wooing a beautiful lady under a balcony. I was in love with the girl next door and the nurse. I was raised as a girl, but was a melancholic little boy. Oh well, my mother didn�t know any better...� Somewhat later on, Yvo ended up in the lesbian world. In his own way � in a three-piece suit and quick conversation - he got in touch with women. As a social worker he felt like a Freudian psychiatrist, a saver of women in need. It flattered his ego, and yet something was missing. The outside world, after all, continued to see him as a woman. That hurt and made him aggressive. Yvo: �I started to dress and act like a man and even changed my name. During that period I could have killed anyone who addressed me as a woman, but you have to remain polite of course. Buddhism, which I got to know out of curiosity, helped me to deal with these feelings. More than that: it taught me how to assemble the various types of man that I have in me and weld them together into one entity.�

Treasure chamber

Continuing on from the above Yvo says: �I did not have a problem with my transsexuality, but with my manhood. What kind of man am I, I asked myself. The teachings of the Buddha, meditation and reciting mantra�s led me to see that my masculinity expresses itself in various ways. Sometimes I am a butler in character, at other times a seducer, caring father, artist or manager. The concept transsexuality does not really apply to people such as me. You are in search of your identity, your deepest being. Sexuality is only a very small part of that.� The insights that Yvo received from Buddhism touched him even more deeply. Yvo: �Every person has an internal treasure chamber, in which the various pieces of his soul are kept. As a transgender person you are forced to open these packages one by one. That�s when you are pleasantly surprised, but it is important to first clear up the mess that you also encounter, think of aggression, hatred, incomprehension and other negative energies. Only then can you be at one with yourself and the world around you, and start enjoying who you truly are. For hours I sat crying and fighting on my meditation cushion, but slowly the sorrow, rage and aggression disappeared to make way for acceptance, compassion and love. Then I thought: now that I feel so good inside, it is time to show that on the outside too.�

Operation

After my inner quest, I went back to the Genderteam of the Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam. I was very pleased with their letter which stated �in writing� that from that moment on, I was to go through life as a man. Although I had done so all my life, it was a beautiful honour.� During the next years, the visits to the hospital followed each other in rapid succession. Operations were prepared for and Yvo starts taking hormones. Not an easy period. Yvo: �Once again I came up against myself very hard. The hormone treatment meant that I relived my whole puberty a second time. Scooter out of the closet and in search of girls! Emotional storms raged through my body, but in the meantime I had to learn to tame the explosive man inside me. Emotionally very demanding, particularly when my breasts grew larger as a result of the treatment. But when I was able to shave, I was in a jubilant mood. Another mile-stone! In town I chose a shaver with the greatest care.� Yvo is very positive about the intake and support the hospital (the VU medical center Amsterdam) gave him. �You are treated like a king. When I was in for my operation, I had my own room, with a bathroom and all. The operations also went well. In addition to my breasts, my uterus and fallopian tubes were removed too, and I will undergo an operation for a penis reconstruction in a few years time. It is usually referred to as a conversion, but I don�t think that is the right term. After all, you are not a car and your body needs time to come to terms with such radical interventions. So shortly after the operations (Yvo was operated on twice in the last half year �eds.) everything is still so sensitive.�

Joker

There is a lot of acceptance for the decision made by the man born and raised in Amsterdam to change his biological sex, both in society, but particularly among his family and friends. According to Yvo his own openness is a help. Yvo: �Acceptance everywhere, but most do not really understand it. They are not to blame for that. After all, we live in a society where thinking in black and white is the norm. For the outside world it is difficult to suddenly treat someone who is regarded as a woman as a man. But don�t forget that I was not a woman in the first place! The reactions from people in the spiritual world are sometimes irritating. There I regularly hear people, in a so-called generous way, say: �Oh don�t worry. It doesn�t matter what you are: man or woman. You are here as a person!� Then I think: �How would you like to be continually addressed as someone of the other sex?!� Anyway, it�s pointless to fight against it. Then you will succumb like a modern Don Quichot. Lay your cards on the table and don�t avoid �difficult� questions. Make your gender into your personal power and use the joker when you can. Without fear and with the right kind of pride.�

Anchor

Yvo believes that as a transman you go through exams of acceptance. He experienced a moment like this when, before the hormone treatments and operations, he tried to enter the Amsterdam synagogue wearing his yarmulke. He succeeded and Yvo had the blissful feeling that at last he had been accepted as the grandchild of his Jewish grandfather who had already passed away some time ago. Yvo: �By nature I am very interested in heritage. Not from a sense of preservation, but because it can be a source of strength and identity. Religion brings people together and offers enormous riches on a psychological level. Every human being must be able to tap into that well freely, and therefore also a transman. In the past I asked questions such as �Does God accept me?� and �May I cut my body?� My spiritual quest has answered many questions, but how are my fellow transmen and woman doing? The working group transgender, religion, philosophy and ethics has as its ultimate aim the foundation of a knowledge center where every religious transgender person can come for information or advice. In this way, I am working with religious leaders of various denominations to make an inventory of trans-friendly passages in the holy books. A little like a lawyer who looks for the loopholes in the law for his client. That results in arguments with which you can continue to visit your own church, mosque or temple. Important, because you really need an anchor-especially as a transgender person!�

Magazine: Paravisie
Text: Niels Brummelman journalist

Links

The Workgroup Transgender, Religion, Philosophy of Life and Ethics
http://transenreligie.blog2blog.nl

Profile on LGBT - RAN
http://www.lgbtran.org/Profile.aspx?ID=277

Ease Coast Launch of Balancing on the Mechitzah: Transgender in Jewish Community (June 2, 2010; Philadelphia, PA)

cpaige — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 02:38:12 -0500

Balancing on the Mechitzah: Transgender in Jewish Community

Please join us Wednesday evening at 7pm for the east coast launch of the new anthology, Balancing on the Mechitzah: Transgender in Jewish Community, edited by Noach Dzmura, an activist for transgender inclusion in the Bay Area Jewish communities and a consultant for Jewish Mosaic: The National Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity.

Mr. Dzmura will introduce and read selections from the text to illustrate the celebrations and challenges of transgender Jewish life from all points on the gender spectrum, including work by

* a strictly observant Orthodox transsexual woman,
* a liberal Reform masculine-spectrum genderqueer rabbi,
* a secular FTM psychologist, and
* an MTF academic and ritualist who teaches at an Orthodox university.

As time permits, Dzmura will show how insight might be found in Jewish texts about how communities can begin to adapt to the changes required by genders and bodies that no longer fit a rigid two-gender system.

The event will be held at Congregation Rodeph Shalom (615 North Broad Street), beginning at 7pm, and will be of interest to Jewish and non-Jewish participants of all genders.

Sponsors include Congregation Rodeph Shalom, Congregation Beth Ahavah, Congregation Mishkan Shalom, the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, the YES! Coalition, and TransFaith Online.

The program is free and open to the public.

----------------------

Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference

While in Philadelphia, Mr. Dzmura will also be attending the Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference (PTHC), June 3-5, 2010. PTHC is a three-day conference for community members and providers (medical, mental health, clergy, social workers, etc), with free-admission. It's a great opportunity to learn more about diverse transgender experiences and connect with great community. PTHC is a program of the Mazzoni Center.

Second Annual Transgender Religious Leaders* Luncheon (June 2, 2010; Philadelphia, PA)

cpaige — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 02:36:41 -0500

The Second Annual Transgender Religious Leaders* Luncheon
at the Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference
Wednesday, June 2, 2010, Noon-5pm
Center City, Philadelphia, PA

Because the 2009 luncheon was so well received, we have decided to expand the luncheon this year. It will be a PTHC pre-event on June 2, 2010, in the Center City area of Philadelphia, PA -- not far from the Convention Center. We will gather for lunch at noon and have the community space reserved until 5pm to spend time together breaking bread, networking, sharing strategies, and visioning for the future. This will be a semi-programmed time, intended to let the creative spirit move among us in healing and empowering ways -- with a strong emphasis on nurturing connections among luncheon participants. Late comers are welcome to join us through out the afternoon, as travel plans allow.

Lunch and the afternoon together are free, sponsored by TransFaith Online. However, donations will be welcome to help cover hospitality costs and the on-going efforts of TransFaith Online to build transgender religious community. Dinner is on your own at any nearby establishment, and participants will be encouraged to continue their conversations into dinner and through the next several days of conferencing.

Pre-registration is required at http://www.transfaithonline.org/transhealth/register (so we can be sure to order enough food!). The menu will be vegetarian. Please note any further dietary restrictions in your registration.

*What is a Transgender Religious Leader?

Clergy and non-clergy. Transsexual, genderqueer, cross-dresser, or still trying to figure it out. With or without seminary training. Stealth or trans-religious poster-child. Christian, Jewish, Pagan, Buddhist, and more. Decades of experience or just getting started. Our goal here is to nurture community among people who want to contribute to or be a part of transgender religious organizing.

SPECIAL BONUS WEDNESDAY EVENING!

Please join us Wednesday evening at 7pm for the east coast launch of the new anthology, Balancing on the Mechitzah: Transgender in Jewish Community, edited by Noach Dzmura, an activist for transgender inclusion in the Bay Area Jewish communities and a consultant for Jewish Mosaic: The National Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity.

Mr. Dzmura will introduce and read selections from the text to illustrate the celebrations and challenges of transgender Jewish life from all points on the gender spectrum, including work by a strictly observant Orthodox transsexual woman, a liberal Reform masculine-spectrum genderqueer rabbi, a secular FTM psychologist, and an MTF academic and ritualist who teaches at an Orthodox university. As time permits, Dzmura will show how insight might be found in Jewish texts about how communities can begin to adapt to the changes required by genders and bodies that no longer fit a rigid two-gender system.

The event will be held at Congregation Rodeph Shalom (615 North Broad Street), beginning at 7pm, and will be of interest to Jewish and non-Jewish participants of all genders. Sponsors include Congregation Rodeph Shalom, Congregation Beth Ahavah, Congregation Mishkan Shalom, the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, the YES! Coalition, and TransFaith Online. The program is free and open to the public.

Weds Night: http://www.yescoalitionphilly.org/news/20100602

CANCELLED -- 4th Annual Transgender Religious Leaders Summit (Cambridge, MA; April 16-18, 2010)

cpaige — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 02:34:18 -0500

I've learned this week that the event has been canceled. Other efforts are being made to arrange an alternate Summit scenario.

4th Annual Transgender Religious Leaders Summit (Cambridge, MA; April 16-18, 2010)

cpaige — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 02:33:15 -0500

I'm sorry to report...

I learned this week that this event has been canceled. Watch for a new Summit plan to come.

Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference (Philadelphia, PA; June 3-5, 2010) accepting workshop proposals through March 15, 2010

cpaige — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 09:45:56 -0500

Watch for more details on spirituality special events -- especially pre-events, June 2, 2010.

For spirituality workshops and other activities, I'm hoping for diverse offerings with wide appeal. Some ideas on my mind include:

* Workshops exploring embodied spirituality (incl. gender transition, ritual and spiritual practices, etc)
* Workshops nurturing safe spirituality (past years have included "Finding Spiritual Strength" and Finding Your Spiritual Path")
* Workshops engaging sources of sacred wisdom, including (but not limited to) Christian Scripture, Jewish texts, historical traditions, etc
* Leadership for guided meditation, yoga, prayer group, and other opportunities for spiritual practice
* Participants for diverse panel presentations on spirituality (people of color, young people, and non-Christians are especially encouraged to inquire)
* Workshops that target specific audiences, esp. youth and young people, allied clergy and religious leaders, and family members of transgender people

Please submit your proposals, inquire about your questions, and volunteer to get involved! Thanks!

Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference (Philadelphia, PA; June 3-5, 2010) accepting workshop proposals through March 15, 2010

cpaige — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 11:07:47 -0500

Hello all,

This just in from the Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference. More news of special opportunities sponsored by TransFaith on June 2, 2010 (pre-events to PTHC) will be coming soon. I hope you'll be able to come. Please spread the word -- and consider submitting your proposal ideas (about spirituality or any number of other topics). We had great involvement from spiritually minded folks last year and I look forward to seeing even more folks this year!

Chris

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Trans-Forming Health Care!

The 9th annual Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference (PTHC) will be held June 3-5, 2010 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center (Philadelphia, PA). As the country debates healthcare reform, at the center of the debate are issues of quality of care and access. The political debate may (or may not!) have some resolution by June, 2010, but issues of quality of care and access will continue for trans communities. These will be among the many issues that will be explored through this conference.

Confirmed Keynote Speakers:

Rebecca Allison, MD will be our opening keynote speaker on Thursday, June 3, 2010. Dr. Allison is an accomplished cardiologist, who is currently serving as the president of the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association -- the first transgender person to hold that position. A full bio is available at http://www.trans-health.org/keynotes.

Kylar Broadus, Esq will be our closing keynote speaker on Saturday, June 5, 2010. Mr. Kylar is an accomplished attorney and professor, who is currently serving as board chair of the National Black Justice Coalition -- the first transgender person to hold that position. A full bio is available at http://www.trans-health.org/keynotes.

Changes at PTHC 2010!

This year PTHC is trying something different by making all three days free to the public, with slots each day for workshops targeting both the Community and Providers. Because of this structure, we are able to provide more workshops for everyone, more time for community building, and more CME's and CEU's for those that want them.

More details about changes and confirmed activities at PTHC 2010 will released as arrangements are finalized. Be sure to check our website regularly at http://www.trans-health.org for the latest updates.

Call for Proposals

The planning committee is currently seeking workshop proposals for the 2010 Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference. For medical providers, mental health workers, social workers, clergy, and educators, the conference provides tools needed to provide inclusive services to transgender individuals and our families. For community members, families, partners, and allies, the conference provides tools needed to succeed and thrive within our communities and within our daily lives.

At http://proposals.trans-health.org you can find a list of topics and past workshop descriptions. We are eager to hear your creative ideas!

The final workshop proposal deadline is March 15, 2010. However, earlier submission is strongly encouraged. The first round of proposal feedback will be March 1, 2010. If you submit your proposal in some form by then, the committee will be able to offer feedback to help you refine your proposal before final decisions are made.

Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference (Philadelphia, PA; June 3-5, 2010) accepting workshop proposals through March 15, 2010

cpaige — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 11:18:19 -0500

The Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference is now accepting workshop proposals for the event June 3-5, 2010.

http://proposals.trans-health.org/proposals/

We are looking for workshop ideas on a wide range of topics -- but also seek resource people to provide spiritual leadership in various ways. For instance, we would like to have a yoga workshop. Meditation or guided meditation. A panel of individuals from various faith traditions. We anticipate a Roman Catholic gathering. A Jewish gathering. A pagan gathering. Christian worship. And more.

We need workshops and activities aimed at religious leaders, at youth, at allies/familes, as well as at general transgender populations. People of color, young people, and people from non-Christian faith traditions are especially encouraged to make contact.

Please inquire with your ideas or interest in participating. More details to come on the second annual Transgender Religious Leaders Luncheon -- which will be June 2, 2010 from noon-5pm (a pre-event).

Chris
chris (at) transfaithonline[dot]org

P.S. The first round of proposal feedback will be March 1, 2010. If you submit your proposal in some form by then, the committee will be able to offer feedback to help you refine your proposal before final decisions are made.