A Constellation of Movable Closets: 20th-Century Trans Feminine Social Worlds

Facilitators:

Chris Aino Pihlak, University of Toronto

Discussion moderated by Sam Sanchinel, University of Toronto

Event Description:

From Toronto to Cape Town, New York to Auckland, and Los Angeles to London, trans femmes found each. From countless ramshackle printers, mimeograph machines, and computers to secret PO boxes, forwarding addresses, and adult bookstores, trans femmes spoke with each other. From locked motel rooms, disused camp-grounds, and crowded living rooms, trans femmes built community together.Far from a new phenomenon, trans folks have always been here, and we’ve always formed complex subcultural networks of care, community, and sometimes conflict. Join trans feminine social historian Chris Aino Pihlak for her talk on just some of these constellations of sisterhood and community. From 1960 onward, an ecosystem of trans feminine communities thrived under the surface of trans misogynistic societies in the Global North. Though they often physically came together, members also published a robust number of subcultural magazines that were pre-Internet virtual sites of community. With names like Female Mimics, The Transvestite-Transsexual Tapestry, and LadyLike, these rich and entertaining texts represented distinct historical understandings of trans feminine community. Though many aspects resemble contemporary trans life, these subcultures also reflect a now bygone era of a distinct trans community ethos. Overwhelmingly white, middle-class, closeted, and oftentimes homophobic, these communities nevertheless were also sites of life-saving care and sisterhood. Join us at UC 240 or Zoom on March 28th from 6-8 pm EST to learn, laugh, engage, and discuss how those who came before us built trans community

Location Details:

This is a hybrid event hosted in-person and on Zoom. Once you register a Zoom link will be sent to your email. The in-person location of this event is room UC240 located at University College (15 King’s College Circle). The closest entrance is on the left side of Hart House Circle if you are walking north from King’s College circle. We will have volunteers at the main staircase on the first floor.

Accessibility:

Please let us know of any access needs at sds.sexsalon@gmail.com