No Apology Necessary : Celebrating Masculinity
Lukas Walther, Zander Keig, Julian Melson
Many trans people feel that there is no distinct, definitive line between genders. Numerous others find, however, that we’re perceived as having crossed a line once we are fully recognized as male. Many of us living as male for several years experience unjustifiable targeting for being the embodiment of patriarchal culture. This shows up in accusations of misogyny and in demands that we become the model man, apologize for our masculinity, or deny any claim to manhood at all. How do we come to terms with our own maleness in light of feminist messages that men are the enemy? What happens when we seek to empower ourselves as whole human beings and are judged as trading oppression for privilege? How easy is it, really, to be a man in this culture? Having overcome many hurdles to live authentic lives, often at great personal expense, how do we deal with being criticized and objectified yet again?
In this two-part discussion with break-out groups, we will share our experiences as we’ve explored these questions and our answers/non-answers that have come out of this process. Ultimately we hope to answer the question: In what ways can we and/or do we truly celebrate and embrace our masculinity?
Note: This closed session is for transmen who have, for at least several years, been fully, easily, and intentionally recognized as male and masculine.
Seven-Year Itch
Zander Keig, Patrick Callahan
Many years have passed since you physically transitioned, and the impact it had on job, family, relationship, medical issues, and the like has faded a bit into the past. What’s going on in your world now? Your gender may no longer be an issue in most of your personal relationships, but where does it pop up? Are you back in the dating pool with no idea how to begin? Reentering school, and the financial aid administrator wants to know why you aren’t registered for selective service? Are you living stealth or out? Where do you disclose your gender, and where do you find it to be irrelevant?
Note: The focus of this workshop is on people who are five or more years post-transition. All are welcome to listen, but we ask that you respect the intent to create a focused conversation relevant to this particular subset of the trans community.
