Community Forum on TG Issues In Philadelphia

Bridges To Coalition


Reported by Lee Etscovitz
Transgender Forum Roving Reporter


Strength through union was the focus of a recent gathering in Philadelphia, PA designed to establish a new set of political and social goals for the local TG community.

Under the banner, "Bridges to Coalition," and with the sponsorship of 24 groups, over 200 people listened to a total of seven speakers address the long-range goal of helping TG/TS people move towards their own identities and voices, gain improved access to local services, and have a space where non-TG/TS Philadelphians, especially from the gay, lesbian, bisexual community, can be educated about transgender issues.

The speakers presented such topics as: Violence and Discrimination Against Transgendered People, Where is the Rage?, Education, Health Issues and Civil Rights, and Political Activism.

With the aim of helping to build new lines of communication and cooperation among oft-competing groups and organizations, Leslie Feinberg, nationally known author of STONE BUTCH BLUES and TRANSGENDER WARRIORS, was keynote speaker on "How to Build Bridges."

Ms. Feinberg, speaking with the same passionate spirit characteristic of her writings, reviewed transgender history and the recent emergence of a TG rights movement. Her presentation was received with a standing ovation. It was in the spirit of shared purposes and collaborative change that all the speakers made presentations and were well received.

This ground-breaking event was held on Sunday, June 2, 1996 at The Friends Center in Philadelphia, only a few blocks from Independence Hall. The two-hour program also included a brief TG memorial service and was concluded with a question and answer period. Then an hour-long reception, including food, information tables from local TG/TS groups, networking, and book-signing by Leslie Feinberg, allowed everyone to meet informally.

One of the organizers, who was also an inspiring speaker, later said, "This is only the beginning. We have a lot of work to do. And we'll do it!"


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