Below is a listing of workshops from the 2010 conference.

 

100 Things You Can Do To Keep Sexual Freedom Alive - Raven Kaldera

Want to make the world a sexually freer place? Find out how! It's not just for activists any more - no matter who you are, you can do a few things on this list and add to the Work of Sexually Healing The World. This is a fun and innovative workshop that is also inspiring.

 

 

Aleister Crowley And The Abolition Of Boundaries - Beth Kimbell

Aleister Crowley, poet & priest, “Wickedest Main in the World”, was not a devil looking for some fun. He was a prophet & forebear to those who would be free. He did not work just so we may play, but for all to have true freedom in the pursuit of their Will. His aim was the Great Work, self-perfection & the uplifting of humanity. Should we not be able to conclude our own path, to act in accord with the dictates of our soul? Polyamory, gender-bending, trying the limits of body & mind, his path of initiation united sexuality with spirituality, aiming every act at Liberation, & he was vilified, that we may know the strength to defend these rights & the purpose of so-called base needs. Heralding the New Aeon, when we will not be slaves to the religions of restriction nor have our lives dictated by our neighbors’ morals, he became the Great Beast, bringer of Light & Gnosis. Come hear of the methods he used, the scandals he knew, & how he became 73rd of the Greatest 100 Britons of all time.

 

 

Art And Science Of Kissing - Marah Fellicce

Have you noticed that the world of kissing has significantly diminished? Kissing can be a wonderful and intimate experience.  In  an age of instant popcorn, let’s slow down, back off the hurry and talk about kissing.  During the workshop participants learn about the science, history and culture of kissing. We discuss what makes or breaks a kiss, and collaboratively create a top ten things that make a great kiss. Along the way you’ll learn about some scientific research regarding kissing as well as some fun historical facts.  Kissing as a practicum is offered in the extended version of this workshop, which includes:  “kiss yoga” – exercises to further enhance non verbal communication skills.  The kiss workshop is not intended as a pickup scene, and it is open to all gender expressions, and orientations.  A partner to kiss is not required for this workshop, but also, without a partner, kissing is not guaranteed.  The audience for this workshop is anyone who is interested in learning more about their own kiss style and about kissing in general. There’s rich and meaningful history surrounding the kiss. Participants in the class get to be a part of it!

 

 

Asexuality 101 - Ashley LeClerc and Lev Malkis

What is asexuality?  What are the varied, personal definitions of asexuality? Do asexuals want relationships or families?  How do asexuals negotiate intimacy  and sex in relationships with asexual or sexual partners?  How do asexuals define and experience attraction, arousal, and intimacy?  This panel discussion seeks to provide an introduction to asexuality and the asexual community.  The discussion will explore the questions above and others through the personal experiences and reflections of the panelists.  Audience members are encouraged to participate in the discussion with questions and comments for the panelists throughout.

 

 

Ask A Kinky Person - Moderated by Jawn's Doll (jenn), Panelists: Jawn, MJ, rabbit, Lord Percival

Why do you like to be spanked? How can you wear that rubber dress? What does it mean when you say you're a "slave"? If you're a dominatrix, does that mean you're like Lady Heather on CSI? And what's a furry? If you've ever wondered about any of these questions, or have any questions of your own, now is your chance to ask them anonymously to a diverse panel of kinky people.  Questions will be gathered prior to the panel and during introductions, then answered honestly by our panelists. No topic will be off limits! This presentation is for attendees over 18 years old. If you would like to submit questions to the panel leader before the session, you can e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

 

 

Ask A Poly Person - Moderated by Ian Rose, Panelists: MJ, Melissa, Esh, Ray

Maybe you didn't know  polyamory existed until you happened upon an article or saw a video clip. Perhaps you have questions but are unsure of when and how to ask. You're probably wary of offending or prying. Fortunately, you can come to Ask a Poly Person and get some answers. Several practicing poly folk will take  questions and provide their unique perspectives on consensual non-monogamous relationships. Who sleeps where? What if your partners don't get along? What's NRE? Is it wise to merge that many google calendars? Bring your inquiries and an open mind! Questions will be gathered prior to the panel and during introductions, then answered honestly by our panelists.

 

 

Ask A Trans Person - Moderated by Lorelei Erisis, Panelists: Tasha Rose, rabbit

The best way to learn about life as a transgender person is from a transgender person, but we all know you can't just walk up to someone and start asking personal questions. "Ask a trans person" provides a forum for the questions you normally aren't comfortable asking.  Several transfolk will be speaking about their experiences in an open non-judgemental atmosphere. Topics may range from sexuality to surgery to interacting with society and everything in between.  Questions will be gathered prior to the panel and during introductions, then answered honestly by our panelists

 

 

Ask The Professionals - Moderated by Michelle Wexelblat, LICSW, Panelists: Aimee Bouchard Esq., Alex Solomon, Bendy Yoga Girl, Rev. Matthew 

There is no agenda for the panelists- it is what the attendees of the panel bring to ask that will be the discussion.  Bring your questions!

 

 

Bedtime Stories - Cecilia Tan

Selections of erotic tales of gender, sexuality and adventure.

 

 

Being That Person - raycho

We all know that person, and many of us have been that person.  You know, the one in the front row with their hand up, always reminding everyone about that group of people inadvertently (we hope) left out?  This discussion is for all of us who are "that person", the one always bringing up access issues, gender issues, race issues, whatever - we've got issues!  At least the people who always wind up with our hands in their faces might think so.  We'll discuss what it's like to be "that person". Do we get taken seriously, or dismissed as just having a pet cause?  Do we become the point person on an issue, or do we get treated like Exhibit A?  Do our voices help to gather others like us and allies, or do we get singled out? How does being "that person" affect us and our identities?  Are we a positive force for change?  And most importantly, where are we all going on our day off - or will we ever get one?

 

 

Beyond Trans 101 For Gay, Lesbian, Bi, & Allies - Gunner Scott

Often LGBQ activists are called upon to explain the “T” in LGBTQ, but not everyone has the same understanding or may feel able to address the issues facing the transgender community. Transgender individuals deal with a myriad of issues some similar to LGBQ people and some significantly different. The LGBTQ communities have always been historically linked, but transphobia, homophobia, and biphobia has been used to try to keep these communities separated. This workshop will address the following questions: What does it mean to be transgender; where do transgender people fit into the larger queer/bi movement for rights, access, and recognition; and how to be an effective ally to transgender communities. All are welcome.

 

 

Bisexuals In A Mixed Orientation Marriage: Pathways To Success - Moderated by Mark Rheault

This presentation explores a variety of issues faced by individuals in a mixed orientation marriage where one spouse is bisexual and the other is straight. Our focus will be on the evolution of the relationship in a marriage where the bisexual starts the relationship deep in the closet with their partner not being aware  of the same sex attraction. The revelation of same sex attraction ten, twenty, thirty or more years into the marriage often results in a crisis where couples must redefine their entire marriage dynamic.  The first half of the workshop will feature an overview of the nature of mixed orientation marriages and  their evolution from the secret no one must know into a healthy relationship that features open communication and acceptance of the bisexual spouse.  We will examine why a bisexuals same sex attraction often becomes an issue later in the marriage.  We will look at the difference between self disclosure and discovery and the impact on trust.  We will discuss common pathways and solutions that lead to successful mixed orientation marriages and we will examine some of the issues associated  with these various paths. Finally, we will discuss a variety of resources for help and support for both the bisexual spouse and the straight spouse.   The second half of the workshop will feature a sharing of stories by others who have traveled this journey out of the closet to their spouses as we can all learn from  those who have traveled this  journey with us.  [Some topics to be shared by our panelists include:  When did you become aware of your same sex attraction? Why did you become involved in a traditional heterosexual relationship?, How did you came out to your partner?  What were some issues faced in the  early days after disclosure? What  has worked and what did not as your mixed orientation marriage has evolved? What is your relationship like today and where would you like it to be tomorrow?,  and Things you know today you wish you had known then.]   It is our hope that participants will take away a greater understanding that mixed orientation marriages can be rewarding, successful relationships.

 

 

Breadcrumbs: Keeping Your Online Identity Safe - The Red-Headed Diva 

Everywhere we go today, technology follows.  The onslaught of Social Media has exploded over the past few years, and it rapidly changes before our eyes.  Even in alternative lifestyles we have Social Networks that allow us to be ourselves in and express who we are and who we'd like to be.  For many, maintaining a balance of privacy and anonymity (our breadcrumbs) with our lifestyle is an important factor.  Every social media expert has been buzzing about privacy online and how easy it is to be private with your social media accounts.  But is it?    This workshop will take a hard look at the dirty truth of social networking, and how your trail of breadcrumbs can lead to full exposure of your privacy.  It will teach you that you can effectively maintain your privacy and how to avoid loopholes that may expose more information than you're willing to share.  We will look at some real-life case studies of individuals who thought they were private by using an alias for their alternative lifestyle but were easily discovered through their real identity with just a few small clues.  We'll do a hands-on experiment to help you see how safe you really are and conclude with simple, easy tips to guarantee your safety, privacy and anonymity.  This workshop is open to anyone who has the desire to maintain even an iota of privacy online. It's also for those who think they are already very private online - after this talk, you'll be thinking twice!

 

 

Broken Rocks - Chuck Fellows

FTM poetry and prose of love, lust and life.  A collection of work based on all body types and many, many genders. This stuff will make you laugh, want to cry, hold on to the ones you love  and maybe even give you food for thought.

 

 

Bucking The Binary Of Gender & Orientation: Living In The Grey - Aiden Fyre

Between the black and white binaries of sex, gender, and orientation lie pioneers living in the grey.  Labels like “Queer”, “Pansexual”,“Genderqueer” and “Transgender” transcend the binary... but what do they mean? Wish you could ask without offending someone? Want to explore the concepts of sex, gender, and orientation in a safespace where the only wrong question is the one not asked? Whether you left the binary behind years ago or are curious about learning (but were too afraid to ask), come join us as we delve into the grey in this judgment-free workshop about gender, orientation and living in the undefined.

 

 

Building Support For Transpartners - Sarah Lemons

Building support for transpartners revolves around providing an outlet of support for those in relationships with individuals who are transitioning. In some instances being the partner of a transgender individual can be overwhelming. Finding a support group can help foster healthy relationships and allow all involved in the transition to feel supported and understood. This discussion will be based on the techniques to create successful grassroots supports groups in your own area to allow support for those individuals who may not have services available.

 

 

Chaotic Kiss:  Transgender Issues In Comics - MKT Productions

Chaotic Kiss is the break out transgender comic from MKT Productions that has been touring New England for the last six years. There are transwomen here at all stages of transition, and this comedy-drama has opened the eyes of many people outside the LGBT community to the ups and downs of living transgendered. Michelle Pinard, the artist and writer for CK, will be hosting a presentation on the characters, plot, and the reception her work has recieved.  Also, Michelle will speak about gender issues in Japanese comics/animation. Following the presentation will  be time for Q&A. Check out the  first five issues online at www.chaotickiss.com.

 

 

Come As You Are: Gender Presentation And Body Image In Queer Space - Alice Leibowitz

How do you dress in a space like Transcending Boundaries? Are you more relaxed or more self-conscious about your appearance than in the outside world? More gender conforming or gender variant?  As transgender, genderqueer, and even gender conforming people, we make decisions every day about how we present our gender. In an accepting space like Transcending Boundaries, we should be able to relax. But do we?  At TBC 2009, several participants mentioned that they police their gender presentation more here than in the outside world. What is it about a space where you can be yourself, whoever you are, that puts more pressure on some of us?  Come explore these questions and share your own unique experience at this interactive discussion and workshop. 

 

 

Coming Out Kinky - Scott and Princess Kali

Are you just starting out in kink? Have you finally decided to let the people around you, or even just your close friends or relatives know about your kinky life? Need helpful suggestions or guidance on how to do so? You have questions? We have suggestions....

 

 

Conference Feedback

Do you have ideas for next year's Transcending Boundaries Conference?  Did you enjoy what you saw this year? What would you change?  Would you like to be involved?  Come to our feedback session to voice your opinions with next year's TBC staff!

 

 

Common Sense In Kink Relationships - Tala Thera

With the explosion of the internet and books on kink new submissives are flooded with conflicting and confusing information. This discussion will relate common sense points to keep in mind during the beginning stages of a kink relationship. This class includes lecture and discussion.

 

 

Creating, Keeping And Living In A Family - Mistress Sly

The dictionary describes a family as two or more people who share goals and values, have long-term commitments to one another, and reside usually in the same dwelling place. We will discuss what constitutes a leather family and how family pertains to us in the wonderful world of BDSM.  Our family units are combinations of Tops, Masters, Mistresses, Dommes, Doms, subs, bottoms, slaves and however else we may be labeled, but once we live together as a unit, we are a family.  Come explore that concept and talk about what works, what doesn't, how we came together, and how we've handled individuals leaving our family. After talking about some of the foundations of our family, we'll take questions from the audience.

 

 

Creature on a Quest - Lee Harrington

“For I stand before you, a creature on a quest… for within each question there it stands, this word, quest.” Thus begins Lee Harrington’s one man show, which begins as an academic lecturer, travels backwards and forwards through men’s leather culture, sex work, happy heterosexual marriage as a woman, to being a genderqueer teen and gender unsuspecting child, and ends with audiences pondering the nature of gender, happiness, and relationships. Quest with Lee as he opens up his soul, his heart, his body, and his tales, walking at your side into the center of love. This show contains non-explicit nudity and adult themes and is rated R.

 

 

Dressing Without Fear - Jaida

There are many dressers out there, and dresser-wanabees, who are trapped by their fear of being outed while exploring.  Many of them are resigned to the fact that it is too risky to try this at all. Others travel to the few stores that cater to CD transformations. These stores have great value in the community but the markup on clothes can be prohibitive, and they don't often encourage the girls to gain confidence and start shopping in mainstream stores. What I have found is that consignment stores and stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army can be liberating to CDs. This presentation will be an introduction to using Goodwill and Salvation army as a CD to buy clothes that look incredible on you and don't break the bank, how to get comfortable dressing and do it on the 'cheap' and tricks I have learned along the way to maximize your Goodwill CD experience.

 

 

Embracing Your Inner Diva: Cool Confidence Created - The Red-Headed Diva

Everyone has an inner diva - that feeling of excitement and satisfaction we get when we do something that makes us feel amazing.  More often times than not, we have a difficult time letting out our diva.  We are affected by negativity, outside influence, and even fear of what others might think.  Why do we constantly sacrifice feeling fabulous?  This talk will help you understand how to channel your inner diva in every situation so you can feel your best all the time!  The Red-Headed Diva will share her trade secrets on this topic, starting with the one tool you need to feel fabulous: confidence.  She will share expert tips and tricks on how to constantly build your confidence and feel comfortable in every situation, including ones where negativity may be an influence. Participants will take away valuable resources and exercises they can begin using immediately to begin building their confidence.  This lecture is open to anyone who has ever felt the desire to squash a negative situation with a positive, "I am fabulous" attitude while keeping true to the person you are.  If you have ever felt like an outcast, misunderstood, defeated, or without hope, please join me for this important talk.

 

 

Empower The Bi Movement - Moderated by Cecilia Tan, Panelists: Lisa Jacobs, Robyn Ochs, Ian Rose, Alice Leibowitz, Tom Limoncelli

At last year's TBC we asked the question "Are we still invisible?" In other words, is the bisexual movement still necessary? The answer was a resounding yes. Although the past two decades have seen great strides in increased bi visibility, we are still fighting an uphill battle for inclusion. Come hear from bisexuality activists about what they've done and are still doing to prevent erasure and speak up for bisexual validation. Examples will be given, stories will be told. Bring us your examples to share, as well! We'll build a "to do" list of ten vital steps you can take to increase bi visibility in your world and the world at large.

 

 

Female Friends, Woman Love, And Bachelorettes: Queer Femininities In Female Homosexual Magazines Of The Weimar Republic - Stephanie Skier

This workshop will introduce participants to the vibrant queer print media (newsletters and illustrated magazines) that existed during the Weimar Republic period in Germany, from the 1920s until the Nazi seizure of power in 1933. Looking at selected photographs, drawings, and brief texts (in English) from three Berlin-based queer women’s magazines from 1924-1933 will form the basis for a discussion about queer femininities in the Weimar Republic. Topics of discussion regarding this print culture include: the use of the terms “homosexual,” “bisexual,” “transvestite,” “bachelorette,” “friends,” and “love”; the issue of marriage; censorship and anti-sodomy laws; differences and collaborations between men’s and women’s homosexual organizations, and the uses of queer histories in contemporary politics.  No history background necessary!  All are welcome!

 

 

Fine Conversation 101 - Marah Fellicce

A new workshop to cover finer points of conversation/flirting and how to be a good con guest.  I've found that after my kissing workshop, a lot of people ask me about the prelude to kissing just talking with someone else, and getting to a point where kissing might actually happen.  This is not intended to be a class about hooking up, rather an interactive workshop on carrying on the successful banter and lost art of conversation that is useful in any situation.

 

 

Fixed Or Fluid:  Spiritual Identities And Gender - Dani 

Shulamith Firestone’s formally introduced the fact that there are at least five human sexual identities.  I argue there are far more, that our sexual and spiritual identities are increasingly more diverse and fluid.  Numerous authors deconstruct natural determinist standpoints reiterating phallocentric or homophobic beliefs often drawing on scientific facts and nature as evidence for diversity.  Discussing gender in conjunction with transgressive conceptions of spirituality, point will be made of both the timely and unavoidable necessity for accepting gender fluidity and diversity in our society.   The Ecofeminist conception that socially constructed forms of oppression are intersecting and must be addressed simultaneously will constitute part of the discussion.  We will think beyond naturalistic or goddess mythology, though. We will discuss cognitive and conceptual frameworks including my own research on learning in children, metaphor, and gender diversity vying for a metaphor beyond postmodern power theories.  Methodologies for praxis, as well as theory, will be the forefront of the workshop.  The workshop will include lecture and presentation components but is designed for discussion and interaction. Creative writing and interactive activities are also part of the workshop.  ALL ARE WELCOME TO THE WORKSHOP.  I strongly encourage teachers, social workers, scientists, philosophers, and health care workers to attend.

 

 

Gender Performance Through Improve - Lorelei Erisis

Second City trained improviser and “Miss Trans New England” Lorelei Erisis will share and discuss insights about gender as well as the basics of improv and how it can be used to enrich your own relationships and personal presentation.   This is a hands-on workshop that will explore the performative aspects of gender using the techniques and tools of improvisational acting.  Participants will have the chance to stretch their legs, open their minds and get up on their own feet to learn some basic games and exercises.   No improv or acting experience is necessary, (though experienced performers are welcome too!) just the willingness to try something new and have a little fun.  Come ready to play!!!!  

 

 

Gender Variant Language - Widow Centauri

There is little awareness in the mainstream regarding trans-issues.  One of the major issues surrounding the lack of awareness is the issue of what to call transgender people.  The problem is that the English language is lacking terminology to define and discuss gender variant folks in ways that are neither offensive nor awkward. Given the limitations of the binary-based vocabulary available to us in this culture it is important to assess the use of several gender-variant neologisms (GVN) that have begun to circulate in the transgender community, such as zhe, hir, grrrl, boi, and hiz.  This presentation covers the issues surrounding the gender binary, in the structure of the English language, and the politics of identity that present themselves through this binary. My research questions focus specifically on the perception and performance of gender. I answer some preliminary questions about the potential for a gender-neutral pronoun to gain regular usage.

 

 

Happy Hour

Happy Hour Burlesque is a sideshow cabaret based in Western Massachusetts.  They regularly perform at conventions and can be followed on Facebook and YouTube.

 

 

Intersex 101: Similarities And Differences Between Intersex And Transgender People - Elder A. Vickie Boisseau

Elder A. Vickie Boisseau AIS, Activist/speaker with Mass Transgender Political Coalition will present a workshop exploring the social, legal, and medical issues faced by many Intersex people, as well as the similarities, and differences between Intersex and Trans people. 

 

 

Intersex Panel Talk - Moderated by Elder A. Vickie Boisseau

This is your opportunity to ask various Intersex people questions about being intersex, and how they see the world, as well as their intersex condition, and how it affects their day-to-day lives. 

 

 

Multi-Faith Service

Please join us for an inspiring service of contemplation and celebration.  Take the theme of "Intersections" to heart through words, ritual, and silence.  This service will be led by our Conference Chaplain, and is open to all, regardless of religion or spiritual persuasion.  Even those with no spiritual impulse will find meaning in this community gathering.

 

 

My Family Member/Friend Is Changing, What Do I Do? - Michelle Wexelblat, LICSW

This is a chance for people who have others transitioning around them (either gender, sexual orientation, lifestyles, etc.) to ask questions or get information on what they can expect, what are their emotional rights, tips on how to manage.

 

 

Negotiating For Needs - Jawn's Doll (jenn)

When entering into any kind of relationship with another person, a negotiation occurs. We agree on what names to use, what pronouns we prefer, how close to get, where we can be touched, and so on. But how much of these negotiations are for what we want vs. what we need? How much thought have you given to what your basic needs are, and how you get these needs met?   This class will use Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs as a model to help you determine what your basic needs are as a person, and which needs can and can't be compromised. We'll also discuss what might happen if some needs aren't met, and how you can compensate for that. 

 

 

Parallels And Intersections In Transgender And Disability Experience - Moderated by Bet MacArthur

Three panelists discuss the ways disability experience and transgender experience mirror one another. The discussion will include psycho-social theories of diversity, personal experience of a trans person with a disability, and a political analysis of the controversies involved in introducing the two oppressed communities to one another.

 

 

Polyamory Predicaments - Valerie White

Living polyamorously, and, more significantly, parenting while poly, is often fraught with difficulties.  It may be true that "life's a beach, and then you die", but if you're poly, it can be a ROCKY beach.  Dealing with partners, authorities, families of origin, schools, children . . .  all present special challenges when your life involves multiple partners.   This workshop will provide useful information for polyfolk.  Bring questions, bring  answers--let's share our wisdom and experiences as we discuss polyamory predicaments.

 

 

Queer/Lgbt Disability Visibility, Rights And Action - Cynthya BrianKate

This will be an open discussion of issues/topics relating to Queer/LGBTI and Disability.  This includes what it’s like to be L,G, B, T, Intersex or several of the above and disabled, and/or being the partner or friend of someone who is; perceptions of Queer/LGBT people in disability communities and disabled people in the LGBT community; the need for visibility of the intersection of these worlds; sensitivity/consciousness-raising; fighting for rights on both fronts and action/activism.

 

 

Queer Sex: Sexuality Beyond The Binary - Aiden Fyre

For some of us, the binaries of male/female and gay/straight don't fit. Identifying as, or finding ourselves attracted to, persons not following traditional gender expression can place us in unfamiliar territory. What do our identities and attractions mean about us? How do we approach our lovers with sensitivity? Building on our understanding of sex, gender and orientation, come join us for a discussion about how queer identity can affect our sex and relationships in this judgment-free class.

 

 

Religion / Spirit Builder And Breaker Of Boundaries - Rev. Matthew

Throughout history, religion has often played the role of enforcer of boundaries, particularly in regard to gender and sexuality, no more so then today. Yet, at the same time, religion has often been one place in which those boundaries are torn down, from ancient cultures that saw intersexed people as shamans because they transcended gender to modern day churches that are ordaining openly trans people and taking leading roles in fights for justice on issues like same-sex marriage and gender identity, to clergy who are exploring what it means to offer commitment ceremonies for polyamorous couples and groupings.  This workshop will examine the role that religion has played in the construction and deconstruction of boundaries, looking in particular at the boundaries that surround heterosexuality and monogamy.  It will also look at the distinctions between religion and spirituality, and examine the many ways that spirituality, whether individual or in community, can be a powerful force in challenging boundaries. Lastly, we will look at the role that religion plays in the political and social debates around these issues, how to counter religious arguments, and where religion is emerging as a powerful ally.

 

 

Reverend Reacharound

Reverend Reacharound is an irreverent folk-punk-cabaret duo based in Worcester, MA.   Influences include:  The Vaselines, Frank Zappa, and Beat Happening.

 

 

Rituals Of Transcendence - Rev. Matthew

As we move across and between boundaries, ritual can play a powerful role. A formal sacred moment to signify a new identity, the particular step by step manner of slipping into drag, the burning of something signifying the past which has been transcended or a communal affirmation of boundaries overcome- ritual is often central to the work of transcending, or re-affirming anew, boundaries.   In this workshop we will explore those rituals, both sacred and secular, and talk about how we can craft rituals, both individually and as communities. 

 

 

Rope For All Bodies - Lord Percival  

Join us for an interactive workshop on using rope for play with all sorts of bodies and identities. This workshop is 18+. 

 

 

Sade And Masoch:  A History Lesson - Stephanie Skier

What could it mean when someone identifies as a sadist or as a masochist? What are the historical backgrounds of these terms "sadism" and "masochism" and how do those histories inflect their meanings in contemporary BDSM? This class will introduce and highlight key details in the biographies of the Marquis de Sade (1740-1814) and Leopold von Sacher-Masoch (1836- 1895). The class will also trace the coinage and multi-lingual etymology of the terms "sadist" and "masochist" from 19th-century sexology through contemporary sex-positive culture, with an emphasis on the often neglected regional, political, and class contexts. This class is based in part on the presenter's original research.

 

 

Self-Care For Activists - Robyn Ochs

Returning to TBC 2010 by popular demand! This year in a special two-session block.   "If I don't do it, it won't get done right (or not at all...)"Have you ever felt overwhelmed, unsupported, exhausted by your activism? Let's come together to brainstorm strategies for taking care of ourselves while changing the world.

 

 

Sex Work 101 - Mary Wheeler

Sex Work 101 will discuss the wide variety of sex work people engage in. We will discuss certain risks associated with sex work with a specific focus on street based and survival sex work.  Included in the presentation will be a brief discussion of Rhode Island, Canada and Nevada regulations in regards to sex work.

 

 

Strategies For Everyday Activism - Wintersong Tashlin

What kind of subtle decisions do we make in our everyday lives that constitute a kind of activism, and how can we implement these decisions more effectively? From the conscious choice to mention the gender of a partner, to choosing to hold someone's hand in public, or “accidentally” revealing to a homophobic store clerk that yes, some queers do carry a concealed firearm. In this class, we will talk about how we can advance the place of LGBT people in the everywhere through the tiny ripples we make as we move through the world. 

 

 

Time Management For Activists - Thomas A. Limoncelli

Tom applies the techniques from his popular time management book to the field of grass roots organizing and activism.  * Get more done.  Be more relaxed. * Turn chaos into routines. * The secret trick to getting other people to do work for you. * Feel less guilty when you don't finish absolutely everything. * Feel more organized, more confident. *Spend more time on the important stuff, ignore the petty stuff.  Tom says, "If I had more time I could get all my housecleaning done, and fight the Radical Right, and legalize same-sex marriage, and protect queer youth in every school, and save money by cooking at home, and cure AIDS. The problem is that I don't have enough time.  The problem is that we, as a community, don't have enough time.  We're always too busy to have enough time. Good time management can make all the difference!"   Tom Limoncelli is the author of the popular book "Time Management for System Administrations" (O'Reilly).

 

 

TraniWreck - MC Heywood Wakefield (Boston), Johnny Blazes (Boston), Madge of Honor (Boston), Maggie Cee (Boston), Jonathan Bitchman (NYC), Billy Burg (NYC)

TraniWreck is an all gender, all genre variety cabaret show. A rawkus rabble rousing exhibition of genderbending irreverence; Drag, Burlesque and Performance Art. Since 2004 TraniWreck has been bringing the best over the-top, boundary-busting talent to the stage. We're excited to be performing at Transcending Boundaries! Check us out at http://www.truthserum.org

 

 

Transcending Boundaries Primer - Widow Centauri & Lorelei Erisis

An improvizational lexicon and welcome to Transcending Boundaries

 

 

Transgender, Third-Gender, Intersex And Queer/Lgbt  Spirituality - Cynthya Briankate

This workshop will explore Transgender/Third-Gender/Intersex and Queer/LGBT Spirituality.   This includes the idea that Trans/Third-Gender/Intersex/Queer/LGBT people can be spiritual.  In many ancient cultures we were seen as healers, teachers, shamans, witches and holy people, and still are in some places, or have reclaimed our places as such in our modern practices.  Most cultures have myth and legends of gods and heroes who were Queer, LGB, Transgender, ThirdGender, Intersex or somewhere between male and female, and many of these stories have been rediscovered.  I will cover much of this and can also speak to my own experience as a transgender-identified intersex Shamanic Witch, Spirit-worker and psychic vampire who has built a spiritual practice around my gender and my gender activism.

 

 

Transitioning With A Third Gender Identity - Raven Kaldera and Joshua Tenpenny

Let's think clearly about what physical transition means when it intersects with identity. Wondering whether to physically transition but held back because you don't have a solidly male or female identity? That doesn't have to be a barrier. Let's talk about the ambivalencies of shapeshifting your flesh when your identity is all over the place. Come with questions!

 

 

The Unintentional Closet - Wintersong Tashlin

It's a straight world out there. What effect does it have on our identities as queer people when we are in situations where the people around us make assumptions about our sexuality orientation or gender identity? Does it matter how the world outside our doors perceives us, or can we go through life knowing who we are without that external validation? In this workshop we will commiserate, discuss and strategize ways to live, work and play in a our broader communities, while still staying true to ourselves and maintaining the crucial balance between being out and getting ourselves in trouble.

 

 

What Kind Of Leader Am I? - Bendy Yoga Girl

Leadership isn’t something one does - it is a way of being, and all of us lead in some way.  You may not wish to be the Chairman of the Board, or the lord high mucky-muck of your volunteer run organization, but you *do* lead in some way. This class will introduce a concept of leadership beyond ‘the person in charge’, and will provide you with a set of tools to identify your Leadership Personality Type and the types of those with whom you collaborate.  Knowing how you and those around you lead can be a powerful ally in selecting people to work on teams and projects - and also in choosing roles for individuals.

 

 

What Labels Give Us, What Labels Take Away - Lee Harrington

Before many of us were born, we were given gender labels that set our life course in motion. In this discussion and personally explorative class, we will dive into looking at a variety of questions: What labels have you been gifted, inherited, chosen, been forced into, or run away from? How does your internal identity for yourself affect your outside identity and your interpretation of gender and sexual roles you play or fill? What power do your labels grant you for flirting, community exposure, personal interactions, group dynamics, and more? What do you lose by stating a specific label or expressing it physically at first meeting another individual? How are these labels all formed, and why don’t we just scrap them all? Labels can get us hot, labels can turn us off, labels drive us mad, and labels give us hope for claiming our own sense of self. Let’s challenge ourselves, look deep inside, then examine how it all affects the current communities we each play a part in.

 

 

Working With Trans Youth And Adults - Marisa Howard-Karp

Working with transgender youth and adults: what do (non-trans) health and human service providers need to know?  Transgender, gender-variant, and gender-questioning youth and adults have unique challenges when it comes to accessing health and human services. Yet many providers in these fields have no idea what these challenges are or how to support their clients in getting past them and accessing the services they need. Join us for a discussion on best practices in working with trans youth and adults, and air your questions, concerns, and fears. You’ll leave with concrete ideas and strategies for working with trans folks and for getting your colleagues prepared to do the same.

 

 

Writing Politics In The Bedroom - Cecilia Tan

You're writing erotica or fiction that includes a sexy scene. Being the activist that you are, you want to make sure what you write doesn't merely uphold a heterosexist paradigm or perpetuate a stereotype, right? But what do you do if what gets you hot is politically incorrect? How do you keep the words flowing and your reader interested without veering off into giving a lecture on safe sex, gender politics, or another buzzkill? Your readers are likely looking for some hot action, not a treatise on how BDSM can be an act of feminist empowerment (which it can!). This workshop for writers will outline the traps and troubles inherent in activist erotica, and teach techniques for balancing your need for real issues with your readers' need for fantasy fodder.

 

 

Yoga For Transcending Boundaries - Bendy Yoga Girl

An all-levels class for people of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels.  Let go of the boundaries of thin, fat, male, female, coordinated, bendy, etc..   Let's get together for an hour and transcend the boundaries of 'mine' and 'yours', of 'body' and 'mind'.  Yoga means union - to bring together, and what better way to transcend your own boundaries than let them go through mindfulness, breath, and simple stretches.

 

 

You'd Better Be Ready - Alisha Clarke

Often when transitioning, we focus on the immediate issues that arise, but fail to contemplate the more mundane issues of living and aging as a transperson. This will be an honest discussion of the lifelong challenges, barriers and joys as a transperson.  Having lost two dear friends to suicide, and one who transitioned back after GRS, Alisha feels strongly that more education and discussion is needed in this area.