2022 Gender Spectrum Professionals' Symposium: Full Schedule

You can use THIS LINK to purchase a Full Access or Upgrade Ticket. We hope you enjoy our amazing presenters. For more information please contact info@genderspectrum.org.
Thank you!

8:45am PDT

Settling in...

Presenters

Mars Mendoza

Mar Mendoza aka DREAMS is a chicanx trans dj, producer, and musician living in Oakland. DREAMS is resident dj of Passionfruit Queer Dance Party and collaborator with radical queer hair salon, Beauty Botanica. Together, they operate El Afters, a community event space and art gallery... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 8:45am - 9:15am PDT
TBA

General Session

9:15am PDT

Symposium Opening

Welcome to the 2022 Gender Spectrum Professionals' Symposium! Many thanks to DJ Mars for getting us started with some soothing music before a day full of learning, curiosity and wonder. We will begin our time together orienting you to the day's program and structure before handing things over to our opening keynote speaker, Chase Strangio.

Presenters

Gender Spectrum

Thursday July 14, 2022 9:15am - 9:30am PDT
TBA

General Session

9:30am PDT

Opening Keynote: Knowing our History, Claiming Our Future: Fighting for Transgender and Nonbinary Youth

Chase Strangio, Deputy Director for Transgender Justice for the ACLU and a nationally recognized leader on transgender rights, will help set the tone for the Symposium. A transgender man, a parent, a lawyer and an activist, Strangio is uniquely positioned to provide us with a foundation to understand current political challenges, from threats to gender affirming health care for youth to censorship of LGBTQ focused conversations in schools. He will go beyond the impact of the courts and beyond LGBTQ specific legislation, making connections to topics such as reproductive and voting rights and their impact on the well-being of transgender and nonbinary children and teens, ultimately asking us to consider, “How did we get here and where do we go?” Finally, Chase will share with us why he sees joy as an integral part of movements for change. Attendees will leave this keynote inspired to engage in the symposium workshops to become stronger advocates, in their individual work with youth and in the larger political context.

Presenters

Chase Strangio

Deputy Director for Transgender Justice, ACLU

Chase Strangio is Deputy Director for Transgender Justice with the ACLU’s LGBTQ & HIV Project. A national leader in transgender rights litigation and advocacy Chase has been counsel in some of the past decade’s most pivotal legal fights on behalf of transgender litigants including... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 9:30am - 10:15am PDT
TBA

General Session

10:30am PDT

Expanding the Idea and Practice of Gender Responsive Programs for Justice Involved Youth

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

This session will build upon research that led to the creation of the report, Expanding the Idea and Practice of Gender Responsive Programs for Contra Costa Juvenile Probation. Ceres Policy Research was hired to conduct an assessment of gender responsive programs for justice involved youth in Contra Costa County, California. We conducted a literature review, shared intersectional guiding principles, and created a checklist for what a continuum of care needs to include in order to affirm young people's multiple identities--particularly across race, ethnicity, gender identity and gender expression. This report extends our commitment to thinking about youth as whole people who cannot disconnect one aspect of their core selves from another.

Presenters

Carolyn Reyes

Policy Director, Ceres Policy Research

Angela Irvine-Baker

Founder/Principal Consultant, CERES Policy Research

Angela Irvine, PhD has more than 25 years of experience in education and social policy. Raised in Santa Cruz County, CA, Dr. Irvine earned her BA from UC Berkeley in 1988, her secondary teaching credential from St. Mary’s College of California in 1989, and her PhD in sociology from... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am PDT
TBA

Child Welfare, Mental Health

10:30am PDT

God, Teens, and Gender Diversity

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

This workshop will focus on traditional texts from a variety of faith sources that express values of gender diversity and inclusivity, as well as interpretive processes and theological innovation. Participants will engage in various learning modalities to examine how faith-based study can be liberating and gender expansive rather than restricting and/or hostile to gender diversity. Attendees will have opportunities for self-reflection, group interaction, and practice in creating safe space for religious education for adolescents and teens.

The workshop will also provide conversation points and specific texts for addressing the repressive claims of religious bigots. Participants will be empowered to claim the positive aspects of religious faith and identity, while rejecting devaluing messages. This combination of lifting up the positive and setting boundaries on oppression will provide a good foundation for further work in religious settings.

Presenters

Scorch Garcia (he/they)

Scorch Garcia (he/they) has been a caretaker for neurodivergent children and disabled veterans for most of their life. Scorch was raised in evangelical Christianity, the kid of a pastor, and graduated from a conservative Christian school in 2010. After being exposed to other ways... Read More →

Asher Litschwartz

Program Director, Midrasha

Asher Litschwartz is the Program Director of Berkeley-Oakland Midrasha, a supplementary school for Jewish teens. Asher has been a Jewish educator for over a dozen years in both formal and informal settings. Asher majored in Education at UC Santa Cruz, and is particularly committed... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am PDT
TBA

Faith, Understanding Gender

10:30am PDT

CANCELLED: Black & Trans: Moving Through the Diversity of Gender Journeys

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

We're sorry to let you know that this session will not be available as planned.

Thursday July 14, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am PDT
TBA

Intersectionality, Understanding Gender

10:30am PDT

Gender, Legislation and Law: What Professionals Should Know

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

The degree to which professionals must be aware of various legal issues related to their work with gender diverse youth has never been higher. Supreme court rulings, high profile cases and anti-transgender legislation seem to be in the news on an almost daily basis. Join NCLR attorney Asaf Orr in a conversation about the implications for the work you do as a provider working with transgender and other gender-expansive young people, along with their families and other caring adults.

Presenters

Asaf Orr

JD

Thursday July 14, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am PDT
TBA

Legal/Advocacy

10:30am PDT

Fertility Preservation for Trans Youth

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

The pursuit of gender congruence through medical procedures brings with it many important considerations. Perhaps one of the most critical is related to options for future fertility. What should providers across multiple disciplines understand in supporting youth and families as they grapple with these decisions? This session will offer some of the key considerations that must be made regarding fertility as a young person pursues gender congruence. What questions should they be asking? When? What are some options they may have now? In the future?

Presenters

Evelyn Mok-Lin

Thursday July 14, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am PDT
TBA

Medical, Parent Support

10:30am PDT

Introduction to Gender Dysphoria

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

Join us for a presentation and panel conversation on gender dysphoria. We will be covering topics such as: what is gender dysphoria and how does it impact transgender, non-binary and gender expansive youth? What are ways for youth themselves to navigate gender dysphoria? What are best practices and approaches for providers and professionals to support someone navigating gender dysphoria?

This program will be a hybrid of both a presentation as well as a conversation and Q&A with gender expansive young adults!

Presenters

Jenna Hackman

Manager of Online Programming and Community Development, Gender Spectrum

Jenna Hackman manages Online Programming at Gender Spectrum and has been involved with the organization in various capacities since 2014. They identify as a non-binary queer person and use they or she pronouns. Jenna is passionate about social justice and creating online spaces and... Read More →

Cynthia Kim

Cynthia Kim (she/her). I'm a production manager who works in digital publishing -- my day to day is centered around preparing webnovels for serialization and publication. While I'm nowhere near an expert on queer representation in digital serialized storytelling (such as webnovels... Read More →

Henry Thomas

Henry Thomas (he/they) has been an advocate for the trans and non-binary community for over a decade, with a particular interest in helping queer people navigate complicated and oppressive systems. Most recently, he was the Program Coordinator for GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am PDT
TBA

Mental Health, Understanding Gender

10:30am PDT

The Dimensions of Gender: An Evolving Discourse

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

This session is designed to give participants a foundational understanding of some of the terms and concepts about gender that they will encounter during the symposium. Intended for individuals who may be grappling with some of these ideas for the first time, as well as for more experienced participants who may be seeking to hone their own use of gender terminology and concepts when speaking with or presenting to others. Workshop will include key terminology, examples of various forms of gender diversity across cultures, and perspectives from gender-expansive youth and their families.

Presenters

Carla Pena

Director of Training, Professional Development, Gender Spectrum

Carla Peña is a queer, non-binary writer, educator, and activist. Committed to equity andsocial justice, they have focused their life’s work on LGBTQ+ rights, inclusiveeducation, youth work, and community organizing.Born and raised in Queens, New York (the unceded land of theMatinecock/Munsee... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am PDT
TBA

Understanding Gender

12:00pm PDT

Self Care Session 1.1: Breathe Out, Shake It Off

Limited Capacity seats available

During our time together we’ll move through some accessible movement and breathing exercises so you leave feeling refreshed and poised for whatever comes your way. No special clothing or props required.

Presenters

Kali Alexander

Kali Alexander, MTOM, E-RYT 500 A beloved Los Angeles-based yoga and mindfulness teacher, wellnessexpert, and mama of three, Kali has the unique ability to make the “woo-woo” approachableto the novice, fence-sitters, seasoned practitioners, and the everyday person.Her capacity... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 12:00pm - 12:45pm PDT
TBA

Self Care

12:00pm PDT

Self Care Session 1.2: Joyous Existence

Limited Capacity seats available

"Joyous Existence" is a somatic-based movement class for queer, trans, and non-binary people to explore what it means to exist joyously in one's body. This abbreviated version guides us through sensation and movement-based prompts that make room for us to explore the nuances and complexity of ourselves, challenge binary ways of existing, and redefine what it means to live and exist joyously in our bodies and in the world. No dance experience is necessary, all bodies welcome.

Presenters

Aiano Nakagawa (they/she)

Aiano Nakagawa is a queer, non-binary educator, artist, and maker. They aim to support people in the process of uncovering the ways in which dominant systems of power manifest in the body while aiding in the recovery of one's innate, body-based wisdom and power. They teach both movement-based... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 12:00pm - 12:45pm PDT
TBA

Self Care

12:00pm PDT

Self Care Session 1.3: Intuitive Doodles

Limited Capacity seats available

Intuitive Doodles In this space we will use doodling as a means of centering, grounding and having some fun together. All you need is a round pice of paper (paper plates work great!) or a square or rectangle if that is your favorite shape. You will also need something you like to draw with: pens, pencils, markers… We will look at the intuitive mandalas created by German artist Ulrike Hirsch.

Presenters

Michele Hatchell

Associate Director, Welcoming Schools

Michele Hatchell (she/her) has been a public school art, literacy, tech and social studies teacher for over twenty years in Chicago, IL and Madison, WI. During the last 6 years, she has authored curriculum and professional development trainings for the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 12:00pm - 12:45pm PDT
TBA

Self Care

1:00pm PDT

Rainbow Clubs K-5 for Community and Connection

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

Elementary School GSAs, or Rainbow Clubs, provide spaces for community and connection among young students. This session will be led by the co-creators of Gender Inclusive Classrooms, an organization dedicated to serving LGBTQ+ elementary school students. We’ll share tips for creating and sustaining Rainbow Clubs, ideas for how to structure meetings and follow students’ leads, and anecdotes of club success stories. We hope that this will provide a space for educators looking to support children of LBGTQ+ families as well as trans, nonbinary and gender expansive students at their schools.

Presenters

Katy Butler

Co-creator, Gender Inclusive Classrooms

Katy Butler (she/her) is a white queer cisgender woman teaching second grade at a California public school. She has taught in California and Massachusetts for ten years and leads a Rainbow Club for students in grades K-5. She is a co-creator of Gender Inclusive Classrooms.

Kieran Slattery

Co-creator, Gender Inclusive Classrooms

Kieran Slattery (he/him) is a white queer transgender man who has taught fifth grade at a public school in Northampton, Massachusetts for seven years. He holds a Masters in Teaching and Masters in Children's Literature. He is a co-creator of Gender Inclusive Classrooms.

Thursday July 14, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Early Childhood/Elementary, Education

1:00pm PDT

NOT RECORDED: Building From the Ground Up: How to Develop an Intersectional Policy Framework for Schools

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

Fostering safe and affirming schools for transgender and gender-expansive students is critical, but it can sometimes feel like there are endless challenges and roadblocks to the work.You may be wondering where to start? Or worried about pushback from staff and families? Ascend Public Charter Schools started to build the foundation of developing gender inclusive schools by creating an innovative and intersectional policy framework. In their session they will share their journey as a case study to provide concrete actions and strategies they used to transform their schools and support you to do this work in your school!

Presenters

Kerri Lanoue

Director of Behavioral Health, Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified School Social Worker with certification in Child and Family Therapy and Clinical Supervision. I recently began a new role as the Director of Behavioral Health at Jewish Family Service in Metro Detroit after relocating from Brooklyn... Read More →

Jordan Akhurst

Director of Strategic Initiatives, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism, Ascend Public Charter Schools

Jordan Akhurst is the inaugural Director of Strategic Initiatives, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism at Ascend Public Charter Schools. Jordan comes to Ascend with more than 8 years of experience leading intersectional and impactful strategies, policies, programs, and projects... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Education, Intersectionality

1:00pm PDT

Multidisciplinary Lessons Learned from the Care of Transgender and Gender Expansive AAPI Youth and Adolescents

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

As we are amassing more data examining how to meet the varied needs of gender diverse youth, we are only beginning to understand the unique needs of gender diverse youth who are also ethnic/racial minorities. We aim to highlight some of the medical, mental health and legal considerations when working with Asian American and Pacific Islander families (AAPI). We will report on preliminary data collected in our clinic as well as provide resources and recommendations specifically tailored to meet the needs of AAPI gender diverse youth.
(Advanced)

Presenters

Asaf Orr, JD

Senior Attorney, Transgender Youth Project, National Center for Lesbian Rights

Asaf Orr, JD Developing a passion for social justice at a young age, Asaf joined NCLR in 2012 after years of representing students with disabilities and people living with HIV/AIDS. As a Senior Staff Attorney and Director of NCLR’s Transgender Youth Project, Asaf works to safeguard... Read More →

Tandy Aye, MD

Associate Professor of Pediatrics and (by courtesy)Psychiatry, Stanford University School of Medicine

Tandy Aye, MD is a pediatric endocrinologist and medical director of the Stanford Children's Health Pediatric and Adolescent Gender Clinic. As a provider at a tertiary hospital, their clinic often treats transgender and non-binary youth with multiple other conditions.

Chris Brady

Assistant professor, Stanford University

Christine "Chris" Brady, PhD is a Clinical Associate Professor and Pediatric Psychologist at Stanford University School of Medicine, Pediatric and Adolescent Gender Clinic. She has seven years of clinical experience providing education, assessment and therapy to gender diverse youth... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Intersectionality

1:00pm PDT

"Am I Trans Enough?" Supporting Nonbinary and Gender Nonconforming Trans Youth to Face Internalized Oppression, Microaggressions, and Systemic Binarism

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

"Am I trans enough?" This workshop will support mental health professionals in their work with nonbinary and gender nonconforming trans youth who are facing self doubt as the result of binarist oppression. Young trans and nonbinary people are not only navigating the confusing developmental stage of identity formation, but in environments that are often invalidating, pathologizing, and dismissive of their exploration and expression. Here, we will learn more about these insidious forms of oppression and discuss ways to support nonbinary and gender nonconforming trans youth to lean into their felt sense, trust themselves, and stay grounded in their identities and gender journeys.

Presenters

Rey Byrne

LMFT, Roots and Roses Therapy

Rey Byrne (they/them) is a white, nonbinary, trans therapist currently focusing on queer and trans care. Rey also trains on LGBTQIA+ identity, intersectionality, and microaggressions, and has facilitated consultation groups focusing on white anti-racism and LGBTQIA+ therapist mutual... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Mental Health

1:00pm PDT

Working with BIPOC Families in Transition: Aligning the Heart and Head

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

Families are a child's first introduction to the world. The BIPOC experience adds nuanced factors that add much joy and group affiliation. When a child begins a gender journey they take that family along with them. BIPOC families desire to celebrate their children and deserve the space and tools to participate in the fullness of that experience. If you are feeling overwhelmed in the transition, this course offers an island of hope that you are not alone. Come learn about this transition and adopt tools to add your unique cultural experience to the process.

Presenters

Dr. Kimberly H. Lemite, NCSP

Licensed School Psychologist, Aligned Clinical and Educational Services

Dr. Kimberly H. Lemite, NCSP started as an elementary school teacher in NYC and Long Island NY. She graduated from Teachers College, Columbia University earning a PhD in School Psychology. She has worked in Henrico County Public schools and Chesterfield County Public Schools... Read More →

L. Frances Brown (she/her)

L.Frances Brown, MEd contends the intersectionality of her life experiences include Black Woman; Parent of a Trans Adult; Graduate of a Historically Black College and University; Registered Voter and School Psychologist formerly assigned to an urban school district. My career in... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Parent Support, Intersectionality

1:00pm PDT

Doing Gender Work as a Gender-Expansive Professional Working with Gender-Expansive Clients

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

This workshop is hosted by gender-expansive individuals and is specifically for gender-expansive professionals. Please respect the intentional creation of this safe space. The session will explore a variety of topics, which may include: being out in the workplace, transitioning, working with gender-expansive clients (in the mental health, medical, advocacy, and other fields), working with cisgender managers/supervisors, the highs and lows of doing gender work as a gender-expansive professional, and others. Depending on group size, breakout discussion sessions may take place to maximize engagement and participation.

Presenters

Carla Pena

Director of Training, Professional Development, Gender Spectrum

Ty Browne

Ty Browne (he/they) is a Black, non-binary and transmasculine individual who was born and raised in the Bronx, NY by a family of Caribbean descent. He enjoys reflecting on the ways that his experiences and identities intersect to frame his clinical practice as well as impact his passion... Read More →

Emmet Johansson

Trainer CPT, CES, YESbodies

Emmet Johansson is a Swedish, queer, non-binary transperson living in the US since 2011. They are a National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) and Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES). Through their personal and group training fitness business YESbodies... Read More →

Kimberley Armstrong

Kimmie Armstrong is an African-American pansexual, gender-queer, community organizer, creative, and educator. Growing up in Brooklyn NY, as a differently abled individual facing different facets of adversity, a passion for advocacy was sparked.Kimmie has been able to work to support... Read More →

My Aguirre

My is a queer and non-binary afro-latine person born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. My is dedicated to social justice and has a large background in working with LGBTQ+ youth, specifically around homelessness and mental health. They currently work for the Trevor Project as a Supervisor... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Self Care, Entry Level

1:00pm PDT

Providing Gender Affirming Care Amidst all the Noise

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

This session will feature an open conversation about the challenges and opportunities for providing gender affirming care to young people in our current context. It will explore considerations of what we know to be best practices and the impact of affirming care on health and well-being within the political context of anti-trans legislation and the internal debate among providers about what constitutes affirmative care. Attendees will gain perspective of these various issues from experienced providers who are in the midst of this swirling and frequently public debate as they move forward in this work.

Presenters

Elyse Pine

Trans Youth Lead Physician, Chase Brexton Health Care

Elyse Pine, MD received her medical degree from Washington University in St. Louis, completed pediatrics residency training at Mount Sinai in NY and completed fellowship training in pediatric endocrinology at Johns Hopkins. She began serving transgender patients in 2011, and she has... Read More →

Tavi Hawn

Hawn Therapy and Consulting

Tavi Hawn is a Southern lover of books, music, a special dog named Scully (remember the X-Files?), a cat named Lionel, a spider-loving scientist and a baby named Waya (pronounced Wa-hya).They are a multi-racial Indigenous Two Spirit and trans person. Tavi is a co-founder of QORDS... Read More →

Diane Ehrensaft, PhD

Director of Mental Health, Child and Adolescent Gender Center, UCSF

Diane Ehrensaft, Ph.D. is a developmental and clinical psychologist, adjunct professor ofPediatrics at University of California San Francisco, and Director of Mental Health at the Childand Adolescent Gender Center, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital. She is co-editor with Dr.Colt... Read More →

Colt St. Amand

Thursday July 14, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Understanding Gender

1:00pm PDT

The Pressure of Coming Out

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

In this workshop a panel of youth will discuss their own journeys coming to terms with their gender. Particular emphasis will be put on pressures to fit into just one box, experiences of gender fluidity and the impact of multiple forms of oppression related to gender, race, neurodiversity. They will also discuss processes by which they came to decisions about choosing to communicate their gender status publicly or not. The speakers will help challenge the notion that there is one standard trajectory that youth take in understanding and disclosing their gender.

Presenters

Nadine Mudryk

My name is Nadine Mudryk. I identify as gender fluid and my pronouns are they/them. I am a college student from Buenos Aires, Argentina who has found interest in understanding more about the vast gender spectrum and thus raising awareness about the importance of validating everyone's... Read More →

Naomi Cruz

Family and Educational Programming Manager, Gender Spectrum

Naomi Cruz, BA (they/them) is the Manager of Family Programming and Education at Gender Spectrum. Naomi graduated from UC Berkeley in 2021, with a degree in psychology, specializing in LGBT+ studies and mental health. Naomi is passionate about youth and gender creativity and gender... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Understanding Gender

2:30pm PDT

Beyond 101: A Deeper Look at Sex, Gender and Identity

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

This workshop will feature interactive, small group discussions on thornier questions and issues. Using a combination of presentation and case studies, we will explore the impact of race, ethnicity and class on identity, the unique needs of BIPoC transgender youth, social worker identity in working with adolescents, and more. [Advanced]

Presenters

Robin McHaelen

Consultant

Robin P. McHaelen, MSW is the founder and former Executive Director of True Colors, Inc. She has co-authored two books, a book chapter and several articles on LGBTQ+ youth and is a nationally recognized thought leader. She is the recipient of numerous State and National awards. Robin... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

Child Welfare, Mental Health

2:30pm PDT

Leading for Gender Inclusive Schools

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

School leaders committed to creating gender inclusive environments frequently face a variety of opportunities and challenges from many directions. Join us for this panel of experienced educators working in schools of all sorts throughout the country. They will reflect on how they have worked to establish more gender inclusive conditions for all students and supported the unique needs of their transgender and other gender expansive young people at the same time. What has surprised them? What has proved especially challenging? What advice would they give other educators seeking to deep in their own capacity as gender inclusive leaders?

Presenters

Erica Hasenbeck

Manager, Fresno Unified School District

Heidi Williams-Cooper

Erin Fawkes

AURORA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Jackie Jackson-Dean

Jackie Jackson-Dean has been a School Psychologist for 20 years, most recently working as a School Psychologist and LGBTQ+ Liaison for Pasco County Schools, near the Tampa, Florida area. In her role as the district’s LGBTQ+ Liaison, she chaired the LGBTQ+ committee, developed and... Read More →

Katie Lemmer

Thursday July 14, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

Education

2:30pm PDT

Nothing for Us, Without Us: Creating Trans Affirming Environments

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

LGBTQ students, especially Trans and Gender Non-Binary students of color, continue to lead the charge in amplifying the need for safer, braver, and affirming spaces. However, most students and adult allies are not provided the support needed to promote policies that protect Trans and GNB students. Through the lens of a newly developed curriculum centering on how to promote trans affirming schools, this interactive workshop will share how using a youth-adult partnership model as a framework can ensure that young people are intentionally involved in the design, creation, and implementation of school policies.

Presenters

Dr. Jaymie Campbell-Orphanidys

Associate Director, Trans Health & Rights, Advocates for Youth

Dr. Jaymie Campbell (he/him) is first and foremost a human being – worthy, whole, deserving, and free. Dr. Campbell is described as Black, mixed, queer, and transgender. He has a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Community Mental Health, a Master’s... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

Intersectionality, Education

2:30pm PDT

Supporting Transgender Youth in Sports

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

2021 and 2022 have been the most devastating years on record for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, including transgender athlete bans and medical care bans targeting youth in numerous states across the country. This workshop led by Athlete Ally and The Trevor Project will help get participants off the sidelines and into the action to advocate for trans youth to participate in sports. This workshop will feature a discussion of the history and current landscape for transgender athletes in the US, how to support trans youth in sports, and advocacy and messaging strategies to influence inclusive policies on a local and state level. At the conclusion of the workshop, participants will have a deeper understanding about the current political landscape regarding anti-transgender legislation and how we got here, tangible action steps to support transgender youth in sports including advocacy and messaging, and how sports can be sports can be lifesaving for all kids.

Presenters

Casey Pick

Senior Fellow for Advocacy and Government Affairs, The Trevor Project

Casey Pick (she/her) is the Senior Fellow for Advocacy and Government Affairs for The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ young people. She works to advance state and federal policies that support LGBTQ youth in... Read More →

Anne Lieberman

Director of Policy & Programs, Athlete Ally

Anne Lieberman (they/them) is the Director of Policy and Programs for Athlete Ally, a nonprofit organization working to dismantle the structures of oppression that isolate, exclude and endanger LGBTQI+ people in sport. Anne has over a decade of experience in advancing LGBTQI+ rights... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

Legal/Advocacy, Education

2:30pm PDT

Medical Options for Transgender and Nonbinary Youth

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

This workshop will focus on medical care for transgender and gender diverse youth from childhood to early adulthood. Among topics discussed are finding affirming information for pre-pubertal children, timing and types of puberty blockers, along with risks and benefits of puberty blockers. Hormone regimens for feminizing and masculinizing therapies, along with risks and benefits will be discussed. Current and future options for fertility preservation will be discussed. An overview of guidelines and areas for future research will be presented.

Presenters

Elyse Pine

Trans Youth Lead Physician, Chase Brexton Health Care

Thursday July 14, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

Medical

2:30pm PDT

Deconstructing Gender: Trans & Non Binary Identities

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

Gender is a societal construct that has negative emotional, physical &/or psychological impact, especially those who fall outside of what is constructed as “normal.” In this training, we will deconstruct gender constructs through a trauma informed lens, while learning how to identify & eradicate our own internalized biases, in order to create safer spaces for clients who identify within &/or are exploring their trans identity.

Presenters

Van Ethan Levy

LMFT, LPCC, Author, Educator, Activist, Producer, Van Ethan Levy

Van Ethan Levy (they) is a queer, non-binary, trans, socialized as female, nBPOC (not Black Person of Color), who is autistic, has dynamic disabilities among many more historically & currently excluded & erased identity(ies). They are dually licensed as an LMFT & LPCC. Van believes... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

Mental Health, Understanding Gender

2:30pm PDT

Born in the Right Body: Body as Ally in Embodied Transitions

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

The idea that trans people were “born in the wrong body” is outdated. New narratives are needed that can more accurately capture the complexity of the trans experience, while also providing a way forward for those who transition both medically and socially. This workshop provides an introduction to the “Body-As-Ally” model, which I have developed through my work as a gender doula and through my own healing journey. This workshop will cover what trans dissociation is and how it functions in the trans body and experience, how the body can be reconceptualized as an ally in transition, trauma-informed approaches to encouraging embodiment, using gender euphoria as a North Star in Gender transition, and an exercise to help folks access their embodied “yes” and “no.”
(Advanced)

Presenters

Elias Lawliet

Gender doula, The Gender Doula

Elias A. Lawliet is a The Gender Doula and a PhD candidate at Berkeley. In his doula role, he brings a unique mix of academic research and training, personal experience, spiritual care, and empathetic understanding to help those who are exploring, questioning, or transitioning their... Read More →

Thursday July 14, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

Understanding Gender

3:45pm PDT

Day One Closing

Presenters

Gender Spectrum

Thursday July 14, 2022 3:45pm - 4:00pm PDT
TBA

General Session

8:45am PDT

Settling in...

Presenters

Mars Mendoza

Friday July 15, 2022 8:45am - 9:15am PDT
TBA

General Session

9:15am PDT

Day Two Opening

Welcome back for Day Two of the 2022 Professionals' Symposium! After settling in to the soothing sounds of DJ Mars, we will engage in a brief mindfulness activity led by Aiano Nakagawa. Then it will be off to another full day of conversation, learning and community.

Presenters

Gender Spectrum

Aiano Nakagawa (they/she)

Friday July 15, 2022 9:15am - 9:30am PDT
TBA

General Session

9:45am PDT

Best Practices for System Care Services to Gender Expansive Youth

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

This workshop aims to provide an overview of needs, resources, and best practices for supporting gender expansive youth within systems of care with emphasis on optimizing safety and overall wellness. Staff from the Ruth Ellis Center will offer examples of culturally-responsive interventions used at their agency by presenting a collaborative project, behavioral health interventions, and testimonies from youth.

Presenters

Amorie Robinson

The Ruth Ellis Center

Amorie Robinson, PhD (she/her/hers) is a licensed clinical psychologist in Michigan serving as the Outpatient Therapy Supervisor in Behavioral Health at the Ruth Ellis Center in Highland Park (Detroit) and is a psychotherapist at the Radical Well-Being Center. She previously worked... Read More →

Angelika Lewis

Education and Evaluation Coordinator, Ruth Ellis Center

Angelika Lewis As a coordinator and facilitator Angelika enjoys collaborating with community, bridging the gap between lived experience and policy, and creating safe learning environments. Her work currently engages adult learners in supporting LGBTQ+ youth and adults in their care... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

Child Welfare, Mental Health

9:45am PDT

Potentials and Challenges for Gender and Sexual Diversity in Higher Education: A Comparative Perspective from the USA and Turkey

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

In this workshop, the participants will have an opportunity to gain insights into the particular perspectives of and challenges faced by trans and non-binary teachers and students in the context of Turkey. The session will open up a space for cross-cultural dialogue through the presenter’s observations and perspective on the efforts towards inclusivity and equity in a US higher education institution. Participants will be invited to consider and discuss how people from these two different contexts can learn from one another and if and how studying these two countries side-by-side can offer a potential for learning, capacity building and trans-national solidarity among teachers working in different parts of the world to better support and uplift gender-diverse youth. [Advanced]

Presenters

Billur Kaya

Instructor of English, Istanbul Technical University

Billur Kaya is a 2021-22 Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow at Penn State University. She is an English language instructor and a level coordinator in the Curriculum Development Unit at Istanbul Technical University School of Foreign Languages, Turkey. She is responsible for designing the... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

Education, Legal/Advocacy

9:45am PDT

Peer Support and Mutual Aid Models for Trans Wellbeing

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

In this workshop, we will discuss the work The Trans Advocacy and Care Team (TACT) is doing to build a Peer Counseling model for trans wellness. Peer Counseling is effective because it is led by trans and gender diverse individuals helping other trans and gender diverse individuals thrive. After introducing our Peer Counseling model, we will learn about the ways marginalized communities have historically organized around collective needs. We will present three key elements of mutual aid and learn a few examples of collective action, such as the Survival Programs established by the Black Panther Party. Finally, we will present the impact of our Peer Counseling model to date. We believe that by implementing a trans-led peer support system, trans and nonbinary folks will have access to the mentorship, understanding, and resources they need to thrive and achieve a sense of gender congruence.

Presenters

Juju Martinez (they/them)

Training Coordinator, Trans Advocacy and Care Team

Juju Martinez (they/them) is a trans and nonbinary educator and instructional designer. They envision a world where trans and nonbinary individuals thrive in their daily lives and in the workplace. Juju is passionate about social justice, disability justice, and helping businesses... Read More →

AJ Schaerer

Director, Trans Advocacy and Care Team

AJ Schaerer (they/them) is a trans-masculine, non-binary advocate, educator, speaker, and community organizer. They founded the Trans Advocacy & Care Team in 2021 because of their commitment to fostering a world where trans individuals can thrive and feel a sense of belonging. Using... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

Intersectionality, Mental Health

9:45am PDT

Nonbinary Embodiment and Medical Interventions

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

An increasing number of individuals identify as nonbinary, gender queer, gender fluid, or beyond the binary and some are using medical approaches to embody the body that more closely aligns with their identity. While progress has been made in the medical and mental health communities in supporting transgender individuals, much of this progress focuses on supporting transition within the binary. This workshop will focus on exploring concepts of gender embodiment, touching on medical options, benefits and limitations that can support individuals in their exploration of identity.

Presenters

Jen Hastings, MD

Volunteer Clinical Professor, UCSF Dept of Family and Community Medicine/Health Improvement Partnership of San

Jen Hastings, MD is Volunteer Clinical Professor, UCSF, Department of Family and Community Medicine and actively involved in supporting Transgender Services around the country.

Callum Bobb

Queer LifeSpace

Friday July 15, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

Medical, Mental Health

9:45am PDT

Parenting Transgender and Gender-expansive Kids: It's a Family Affair

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

Join the session and hear from a panel of caregivers discussing their own journeys parenting a trans or gender expansive child or teen. While centering the needs of the young person is paramount, not recognizing the dynamics that play out for the parents and other family members can ultimately lead to less supportive conditions in which that young person is being raised, with possibly dire consequences. Hear from this group of parents as they reflect on what their own experiences have been like as they come to understand and navigate their child's evolving gender story.

Presenters

Jenna Hackman

Manager of Online Programming and Community Development, Gender Spectrum

Serena Wright

CEO, Serena Wright LLC

Serena Wright, MPH, is mother to an 18-year-old transgender son, who came out at the age of 14. She is a public health professional who works in the field of youth development, child welfare, and mental health. She also works as a life coach helping other parents of transgender youth... Read More →

Kirk Allen

Eric Widman

Friday July 15, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

Parent Support, Understanding Gender

9:45am PDT

Cultivating Queer Joy

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

What brings you joy? This question may seem simple, but it can be very complex. In a time where anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is rampant in the news, joy can seem so far away. However, intentionally cultivating joy - including queer joy - is paramount to combatting the trauma occurring across the country and world. In this session, participants will define what joy means to them, learn how to cultivate joy and dismantle barriers that exist within joy, and develop their own joy plan. Participants will be able to take these skills back to their groups and help youth define and cultivate queer joy for themselves.

Presenters

Ace Schwarz

Mx, The Shipley School

Ace Schwarz is a trans/non-binary middle school science teacher. They have been teaching science for seven years and love incorporating social justice elements within the science classroom. Ace uses social media platforms like Instagram to help educators, caregivers, and administrators... Read More →

Davi Mühlinghaus- Anderson

Davi Mühlinghaus- Anderson (they/them/theirs) is in school to do something involving healthcare! They also work closely with Gender Spectrum, co- facilitating the pre-teen and teen groups for gender expansive youth. They also co- facilitate the National Parents group with Gender... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

Understanding Gender

9:45am PDT

Gender-Related Research: Critical Knowledge for Professionals

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

In settings ranging from social media to court rooms, contradictory facts and figures are often cited related to transgender and nonbinary youth. It can be challenging to assess the validity of these claims, some of which have implications harmful to young people. This session will help participants assess, understand and respond to some of the most often-cited research used to block gender-inclusive initiatives such as so- called “rapid-onset gender dysphoria” and “desistance.” In addition, research on the positive impact of support from parents/caregivers, educators and other professionals, and peers will be highlighted. This workshop is designed for any professionals seeking to increase their own understanding of gender and gain tools to support their work with gender diverse youth. The presentation assumes a basic understanding of gender diversity.
(Advanced)

Presenters

Kim Westheimer

Director Research, Policy and Practice, Gender Spectrum

Kim Westheimer is the Director of Research, Policy and Practice for Gender Spectrum where she leads programming related to partnerships and research. Gender has been a recurring thread in her work: whether encouraging students to examine their own gender stories or developing systemic... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

Understanding Gender, Legal/Advocacy

11:15am PDT

Support Systems Ecomap for LGBTQ Youth: A practice tool for identifying and enhancing youth’s supportive networks

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

Having access to supportive resources is a powerful protective factor and has been tied to a number of positive health and wellbeing outcomes for children and youth. Studies document that youth who have strong relationships with caring adults (e.g., family members, teachers and counselors), and are linked to supportive resources and services (e.g., school and community events, youth groups), are more likely to experience healthy adjustment and functioning when compared to youth that lack such support. Conversely, inadequate levels of support are correlated with a host of health- and wellbeing-related concerns such as lower levels of educational achievement, economic vulnerability, socioemotional challenges, and health difficulties.

Providers and caregivers can do a great deal to assist LGBTQ youth in developing and maintaining healthy, supportive relationships, and to connect them to resources that are safe, appropriate, and affirming of who they are. Accordingly, this workshop will provide an overview of a practice tool called an ecomap that has been specifically designed to identify and reflect on the quality and sources of LGBTQ youth’s relationships, the resources and services they are receiving, and any unmet support-related needs they may be experiencing. Explicit attention will be given to the strength and structure of support in relation to youths’ sexuality, gender identity, race, and ethnicity. Participants will have the opportunity to practice using the tool during the workshop using a case scenario. Strategies for engaging in strengths-based, intersectionally grounded, and affirming dialogue with youth will also be discussed.

Presenters

June Paul

Assistant Professor, Skidmore College

June Paul (they/them) is an Assistant Professor in the Social Work Department at Skidmore College, in Saratoga Springs, New York. Their research examines public and community-based programs and policies for vulnerable children, youth, and families with an explicit focus on intersectionality... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

Child Welfare, Mental Health

11:15am PDT

Working with Families - Building Connected Early Learning Communities

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

How do I respond when parents have questions or concerns about young children’s gender exploration? How do I let families know that their child has been excluding or teasing on the basis of gender? How do I welcome and engage gender-expansive family members? We will share key approaches to partnering with families to support their children’s gender health. Participants will come away with a framework for communicating with families across different understandings of gender and experience practicing these conversations in a supportive environment. Participants will also be given take-home tools and resources to inform their future work with children and families. This workshop is presented by members of Gender Justice in Early Childhood Education and is geared toward caregivers, teachers and administrators at all levels of the profession who wish to support gender diversity in their programs.

Presenters

Nathanael Flynn, MA

Gender Justice in Early Childhood

Nathanael Flynn has been teaching young children for over a decade and focuses on partnering with children and families to bring children's interests, current research, and the joy of learning into focus in the classroom. He is co-author of Supporting Gender Diversity in Early Childhood... Read More →

Mitali Purkayastha

Mitali Purkayastha has over 12 years experience with community organizing and workshop facilitation centering Gender Liberation and collective healing practices. Mitali has created spaces for their own chosen family and community as well as for other larger communities in the Bay... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

Early Childhood/Elementary, Parent Support

11:15am PDT

Using Gender Support Plans

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

For many caregivers and educators, even the possibility of a young person announcing a change in their gender status at school seems overwhelming if not impossible. However, some transgender students are taking this courageous step and successfully doing so while remaining enrolled in their educational institution. What are the key elements of a positive experience? What preparation, training and conditions need to be considered as students and their families make the difficult decision to support a child's authentic gender in the classroom? After exploring key principles that must be considered when a student shares their gender with their school community, the session will present specific tools and resources for supporting a student to safely and successfully do so.

Presenters

Carla Pena

Director of Training, Professional Development, Gender Spectrum

Friday July 15, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

Education, Parent Support

11:15am PDT

TherActivist: They/ Them/ Theirs (documentary screening and talkback)

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

TherActivist: They/ Them/ Theirs documentary screening & community conversation workshop will embrace the core values of Identity, Intersectionality, and Inclusion. TherActivist: They/ Them/ Theirs book and documentary project shines light on the intersections of identity, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging; gender expression and social justice activism against the backdrop of anti-Black racism, anti-LGBTQIA violence, and social exclusion. A combination of Black Lives Matter, LGBTQIA+ rights, equity and more! The TherActivist embodies a “therapeutic activism” approach, while servicing and empowering people of color, LGBTQIA+ communities, and marginalized populations.

Presenters

Dana Johnson

Community Activist, Queer Author & Filmmaker, TherActivist

Dana TherActivist Johnson, MSW (They/Them/Theirs) is a masculine of center gender non- binary community activist, Author, documentary filmmaker, DEI&B specialist, and Professional Development trainer. Dana’s an Author and Filmmaker of the memoir, TherActivist: They/ Them/ Theirs... Read More →

Khalid White

Blkmpwr (Black Empower), LLC.

Khalid White, EdD (He/Him/His) is an award-winner in the fields of Education, Film and Literature. He is an African American Studies Professor at San Jose City College. A career educator, Khalid began teaching in CA public schools in 2005. As an entrepreneur, Khalid owns the multi-media... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

Intersectionality, Legal/Advocacy

11:15am PDT

Families in Transition: Supporting Trans Patients

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

Navigating transition involves not only endocrinologists and the patient, but PCPs,
pediatricians, gynecologists, urologists, nurses, physicians assistants, and every other
staff member that will interact with the patient, as well as— potentially— parents and
guardians. How do I talk about risk of pregnancy with my trans masculine patients? How
do I tell my patient’s parents that their trans child is safe with me and my team? What
are the common mistakes that I haven’t prepared for, and how can I make sure my
office is as affirming as possible?

Hear from a panel of transgender and nonbinary folks and their parents as they share
about navigating their identities with their medical providers. This is an opportunity for
folks to learn about how all providers (not just those providing gender affirmation
treatment) can help their trans and nonbinary patients feel safe, seen, and supported in
their practices.

Presenters

Kathie Moehlig

Executive Director, TransFamily Support Services

Kathie Moehlig is the Executive Director of TransFamily SupportServices, and a leading professional on supporting transgender/non-binary youth andtheir families. A tireless advocate for the LGBTQ community, she was named “Woman ofthe Year” by California Assemblyperson Todd Gloria... Read More →

Evan Johnson

Friday July 15, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

Medical

11:15am PDT

Understanding Code-switching and Masking in Multiple Marginalized Communities: BIPOC, Trans, and Autistic Experiences

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

Presenters from a variety of backgrounds will highlight how "code-switching" and "masking" become a form of survival and self-care, helping BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent people live authentically and tell their stories. This session will feature the voices of BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent mental health providers, talking about their lived experiences and how to support self-discovery, commitment to self-care, and survival in a world still learning about BIPOC, the gender spectrum and neurodiversity. This session presents strategies for incorporating self reflection, artistic forms of expression and/or embracing the geeky into our work with BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent youth in an effort to help affirm who they are and guide them in finding their voice.
(Advanced)

Presenters

Lorran Garrison

School Psychologist, Little Brainstorm

Lorran "Lorraine" Garrison (she/her), is a mother, wife, and co-author at Little Brainstorm. She is a school psychologist and regularly speaks on the topics of neurodiversity, disability, and BIPOC needs at ComicCon International; California Association of School Psychologists; Gender... Read More →

Perry Clark

Owner/LMFT, Untangle and Grow Counseling

Perry Clark grew up in Santa Clara, Ca, and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. He graduated from the Institute for Transpersonal Psychology in 2014, with an MA in Psychology: Counseling Psychology. After receiving his license he opened his private practice, “Untangle... Read More →

Damien Oliver

Tiki Inacay

Tiki Inacay has a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Currently, Tiki is a psychologist in training at Alliant International University in the Clinical Psychology PhD. program and has ten years of experience working... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

Mental Health, Intersectionality

11:15am PDT

Clinical Considerations When Working with Parents of Transgender / Non-Binary Children

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

Parents of Trans*/NB children experience significant emotional distress, secondary stigma related to trans negativity, and feel reluctant to seek support outside their immediate family due to fear of rejection. These negative psychological states are problematic due to the fact that no matter the age of the Trans*/NB loved one, parental support is one of the most important protective factors reducing risks of depression, anxiety, substance use and suicide.

As a result, therapists working with the Trans*/NB population should be knowledgeable of the psycho/social/emotional factors that contribute to parental distress, understand the reasons why parents should also be a focus of treatment, and be familiar with different treatment approaches and appropriateness depending on whether parents are accepting or unaccepting of their loved ones Trans*/NB gender.

This workshop provides an overview of the parent transition experience and how clinicians can best support that journey.

Presenters

Linda K. Reeves

LMFT

Friday July 15, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

Parent Support, Mental Health

12:45pm PDT

Self Care Session 2.1: Breathe Out, Shake It Off

Limited Capacity seats available

Presenters

Kali Alexander

Friday July 15, 2022 12:45pm - 1:30pm PDT
TBA

Self Care

12:45pm PDT

Self Care Session 2.2: Joyous Existence

Limited Capacity seats available

Presenters

Aiano Nakagawa (they/she)

Friday July 15, 2022 12:45pm - 1:30pm PDT
TBA

Self Care

12:45pm PDT

Self Care Session 2.3: Intuitive Doodles

Limited Capacity seats available

Presenters

Michele Hatchell

Associate Director, Welcoming Schools

Friday July 15, 2022 12:45pm - 1:30pm PDT
TBA

Self Care

1:45pm PDT

Supporting Young Children’s Gender Development

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

Do you feel ready to talk about gender when young children ask questions or bring it up? How are children developing their own gender identity? How can we support children to grow and expand across all domains of development during this process? We will explore how to create inclusive school communities where all children are supported to grow and expand in their authentic gender selves. Participants will take home tips and strategies to attune to children in their gender journeys, respond to moments of gender bias as they arise in our programs, and connect to the ever expanding understanding of gender diversity. This presentation is geared toward caregivers, teachers and administrators at all levels of the profession who wish to support gender diversity in their programs.

Presenters

Nathanael Flynn, MA

Gender Justice in Early Childhood

Mitali Purkayastha

Friday July 15, 2022 1:45pm - 3:00pm PDT
TBA

Early Childhood/Elementary, Understanding Gender

1:45pm PDT

Safe at School: A Parent's Panel and Discussion

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

We know how influential a supportive school environment is on the well-being of our
trans and nonbinary students, but what does that actually look like in practice? Once
you’ve got the basics down, where do you go from there?

The experience of every trans person is unique, so we aim to help equip you with
stories from our community that are there to provide answers and education. Join us to
hear directly from a panel of trans and nonbinary students and their parents about what
their schools have done wrong, what they’ve done right, and what they wish they had
known when they started their journey together.

Presenters

Kathie Moehlig

Executive Director, TransFamily Support Services

Evan Johnson

Friday July 15, 2022 1:45pm - 3:00pm PDT
TBA

Education, Parent Support

1:45pm PDT

A Case Study for Trans-Affirming Ritual and Learning: They Mitzvah or B'nai Mitzvah

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

Core milestone rituals can be a way that spiritual communities honor individuals and connect them to community, history, and the sacred. In many traditions, these milestone moments are often arranged with a binary and cisgender framework. When this is the case, rather than moments of affirmation and connection, these rituals can be barriers for transgender and nonbinary individuals. In this workshop, we will use the Jewish emerging adult ritual of B’Mitzvah to explore questions, tools, and innovations to make these rituals (both religious and secular) gender-affirming and celebratory of participants of all genders. Folks of all faiths and/or no faith welcome.[Advanced]

Presenters

Jackie Maris

Chicago Education & Training Manager, Keshet

Jackie Maris (she/her) is a queer, South African Pisces who has worn various facilitator hats throughout her career in education and community-building. She served as madricha (camp counselor) and Rosh Chinuch (Head of Education) with Netzer South Africa, taught as a cheder teacher... Read More →

Rakhel Silverman

New York Education and Training Manager, Keshet

Rakhel Silverman (they/them) is Keshet’s New York Education and Training Manager. They double majored in Religious Studies and Sociology at Bryn Mawr College. Rakhel then served in the Avodah Jewish Service Corps in DC, working as a Community Organizer at Jews United for Justice... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 1:45pm - 3:00pm PDT
TBA

Faith

1:45pm PDT

How We are Filling Sex Ed Gaps Among Intersectional Identities

Limited Capacity filling up

Feedback Survey

In the last few years a lot has been happening socially that has impacted the way we live, the way we work, and the way we interact. Our job as sexual health educators has not been the exception. As we move forward, we’ve had to reflect not only on our successes, but also on the things in need of work. That includes:

How we incorporate an intersectional and inclusive approach into the classroom, especially when addressing LGBTQ+ youth populations
How we make sure that we are using a trauma-informed lens
How we are building and sustaining our team
How we build partnerships with our community (LGBTQ+ orgs; parents of children with disability; Faith Communities; Black, Latinx, and people of color; Spanish speaking communities; etc.)

(Advanced)

Presenters

Myr Olivares

Bilingual Health Educator, Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast

Myr Olivares Bonilla, CHW (they/elle; she/ella) is a bilingual health educator at Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast, based in Houston, Texas. They are a sexual health education content and curriculum advisor and creator. Prior to working with PPGC, Olivares was a youth representative... Read More →

Janece Gough

Education Program Manager, Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast

Janece Gough is a proud member of the Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast Education Department and serves as the Education Program Manager. Since her start with PPGC in 2016, she has helped build systems and partnerships that have become critical elements of the current operations of Education... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 1:45pm - 3:00pm PDT
TBA

Intersectionality, Education

1:45pm PDT

Pursuing Surgical Congruence Measures

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

For many young people, the idea of changing their body to more fully represent their internal sense of self is a critical part of achieving gender congruence. Frequently, their assumption is that modifying their bodies will address any and all aspects of dysphoria they may be experiencing; when this does not end up being the case, it can be devastating. For the adults in their lives, the prospect of pursuing gender congruence through an affirming surgical procedure can be fraught with uncertainty and fear. Even the most affirming of caregivers are challenged by the idea of their child undergoing gender affirmation surgery. What role can providers working with youth and families play in navigating these difficult questions? What factors should be considered when coming to a decision about pursuing surgical congruence measures? How does one support a young person to have realistic expectations? What does it look like to help the caring adults understand why such a path is so critical for that young person's sense of self? Come listen to a panel of experienced surgical providers discuss how they have worked with youth and caregivers to think about these and many other important questions.

Presenters

Thomas Satterwhite, MD

Plastic Surgeon, Align Surgical Associates, Inc.

Thomas Satterwhite is a plastic surgeon who specializes in transgender surgical congruence and serves as a Diplomate on the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Biology with honors and later Medical Degree at Stanford University in Palo... Read More →

Min Jun, MD

Angela Rodriguez, MD

Angela M. Rodriguez is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, practicing at Align Surgical Associatesin San Francisco. Dr. Rodriguez has an extensive career in Plastic and Craniofacial surgery. Sheunderwent training at Stanford and Harvard university. Prior to Gender Affirming care, DrRodriguez... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 1:45pm - 3:00pm PDT
TBA

Medical, Mental Health

1:45pm PDT

The Speech-Language Pathologist's Role in Working with Trans and Nonbinary Youth

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

There is not one way femininity or masculinity looks or sounds. This is an interactive workshop on how gender-affirming voice and communication services may help trans, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming youth embody voice and communication skills that are affirming, authentic, and help build self-confidence.

Jordan will talk about the complexity of modifying one’s voice based on his client’s desires, rather than perpetuating stereotypes or pushing a cis-centric focus on how someone’s voice should sound. Jordan will teach participants voice exercises related to pitch, resonance, intonation, and breath support. He will also cover topics like the effects of testosterone on the vocal folds and counseling activities he incorporates in sessions with his clients.
(Advanced)

Presenters

Jordan Jakomin

Speech-Language Pathologist, Jordan Ross Communication

Jordan Jakomin (he/him), is a queer speech-language pathologist and gender-affirming voice coach. He's the owner of Jordan Ross Communication, an online private practice dedicated to making voice and communication training safe, affirming, and empowering for trans, nonbinary, and... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 1:45pm - 3:00pm PDT
TBA

Mental Health

1:45pm PDT

Guided Improvisation for Advocacy, Community, and Liberation

Limited Capacity seats available

Feedback Survey

Shake up your conference experience with some interactive learning and laughter! In this engaging workshop, we will play (that’s right, play!) icebreaker and improv games to practice thinking quickly on our feet and working as a team to explore gender, power, self-advocacy, and collaboratively building the kind of future that we want to live in. This is an opportunity to share your unique and authentic contributions with a group of individuals looking to do the same. You will be asked to participate in the activities, but you are certainly welcome to attend the event and simply watch, listen and laugh. This event is meant to be fun and low stress. All you need to bring is your lived experience and desire to learn.

Presenters

Jesse Greenfield

MPH

CHES

Friday July 15, 2022 1:45pm - 3:00pm PDT
TBA

Understanding Gender, Mental Health

3:15pm PDT

Closing Keynote - Challenges to Providing Gender Affirming Care to Transgender Youth in the Era of Misinformation

Our time together will conclude with Dr. Ximena Lopez sharing her experiences as a pediatric endocrinologist working with trans youth Texas. Dr. Lopez has legally challenged the state's attempts to restrict her ability to provide the necessary medical care for her patients. Reflecting on what that experience has been like and how she maintains her focus and positivity in this challenging context, our Closing Keynote will give Symposium attendees an inspiring sense of possibility as they too seek the do this critical work regardless of the contexts and challenges we all face. Our last session will send all of us into the weekend and beyond ready to redouble our efforts in support of the transgender and other gender expensive young people we have dedicated ourselves to serving....

Presenters

Dr. Ximena Lopez

Associate Professor of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Growing up in Spain and Mexico, Ximena Lopez, M.D., spent a great deal of her time hospitalized for severe asthma. That experience informs her daily work as a physician.“I was impressed by the physicians who took care of me, and I have wanted to be one ever since,” she says.Dr... Read More →

Friday July 15, 2022 3:15pm - 4:30pm PDT
TBA

General Session

TBA

Don't Forget To Leave Your Feedback

Wednesday August 31, 2022 TBA
TBA