Below is a listing of workshops from the 2011 conference.

6 Secrets of Successful Support Groups - Tom Limoncelli

Whether you are an attendee or a facilitator this workshop will supercharge your group! Learn better ways to do publicity, get more repeat attendance, get people to talk when nobody will (and get someone that talks too much to chill), and spread the work around so you have less to do. Some of the tips will surprise you! This workshop will be a mix of lecture and Q&A. Tom has 15+ years experience facilitating support groups.

 

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.

 

 

Ageism, Isolation, and Inclusion: Transgender Aging Issues - JM Sorrell

Participants will understand how ageism in LGBT communities reinforces the isolation felt by older adults and fosters a climate of apprehension and segregation, and you will learn ways to support transgender older adults.

 

 

Art Space

Come express your creativity in our open art space on the second floor.  We'll have all kinds of art supplies to allow you to tell your story, share your ideas or just have fun.  All are welcome to participate, regardless of perceived artistic ability.  There will be space provided to show your creations as well, so don't be shy.  Join us in creating a work of art that transcends boundaries!

 

 

Artists & Performers Panel - Jawn, Jawn's Doll Jenn, Kelli Dunham, Lorelei Erisis

Our communities have a rich artistic tradition.   Panelists will speak about and share examples of their work.  They will also discuss how their work is influenced by their gender and sexuality.   They may also discuss historical and cultural influences on their work.  This panel is for visual and performance artists.  There will be another panel on Sunday of writers.

 

 

Arts Politic: Expressions of Sexual Outsiders - Alex Bettencourt

Whether considered obscene or classic, art dealing with gender, sex, and 'abnormal' sexual desires has long been a controversial topic. From Tom of Finland to Anais Nin, we'll survey the works of artists who have broken out of the box of 'acceptable' and examine the historical and political ramifications of their work. Come view art in a variety of mediums and apply your own analysis. 18+.

 

 

Ask The Professionals - Aimee Bouchard, Eunice Aviles, Kelli Dunham, Melissa Kaplan, raycho

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!  Professionals on the panel include experts in law, mental health, healthcare and public health.

 

 

Auntie Kate - Kate Bornstein

Youth focused workshop.    Teens and young adults only, others are welcome to observe.

 

 

Author Reading and Discussion: Nina Here nor There - Nick Krieger

"Nina Here Nor There: My Journey Beyond Gender" is the new groundbreaking memoir that explores the middle ground between man and woman. Join author Nick Krieger for a reading and discussion. Nick will share where his memoir fits into the contemporary transgender conversation, provide insights into his writing and publishing process, and share the challenges faced and opportunities available for writers interested in going beyond the binary. As part of the presentation, there will be a Q&A. This event will be both entertaining and thought provoking, and geared to writers and readers alike.

 

 

Author Reading: TAKE ME THERE: Genderbending Erotica with Tristan Taormino + Special GuestsTristan Taormino

Come see editor Tristan Taormino read from her newest anthology, Take Me There, a groundbreaking collection of transgender and genderqueer erotica. TBC headliner Kate Bornstein will be joining Tristan on stage to read her story from the book along with other special guests appearances!

 

 

Basic Rope for Every Body - Lord Percival

Join us for an interactive workshop on using rope for play with all sorts of bodies.

 

 

Being Both: Co-gendered in a Mono-gendered world - David

Gender is, for those of us living or working in the frontiers of sexual change, a kind of present day tower of Babel. There would seem to exist a nearly infinite variety of "gender", and yet we often seem unable to agree on any of it. Perhaps not surprisingly, the variety of trans*identifications revolves around our willing push-back on a binary system: we are either male or female or neither. Why do expressions of trans* align with either one or the other or 'none of the above'? In a world where the spectrum of trans*experience is potentially so broad, why do we so often define it in terms of this either-or?

This open discussion begins with my own experience of my gender and my sexuality, of how my sense of self is embodied in being BOTH male AND female at the same time, and has led me to self-identify as co-gendered. It is at once an exciting and lonely place to be, and has raised a lot of questions for me as I move along this path. My purpose here is not to constrain or define, but rather to foster a spirited discussion about what it means to be trans-anything, and how our own complicity in being who we are may inadvertently reinforce a binary code while disallowing the many forms of trans*expression.

 

 

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?

 

 

Bi/Pansexual Panel - Ian Rose, Mark Rheault, MJ, Ron Suresha

 

 

Birds of a Feather - Activism

An opportunity to meet & greet other activists.  Share your projects and meet others who are also trying to change the world.

 

 

Birds of a Feather - New to TBC

First time at TBC?  Looking to make some friends?  Not sure what to expect?  Come meet other first-timers and get to know one another.  Conference staff will also be available for all your questions.

 

Birds of a Feather - Parenting & Families

Come share the joys and challenges of raising a family, or just being in one.  Children are welcome to attend.  This meet & greet is open to all, including queer parents and parents of queer children.

 

 

Birds of a Feather - Professionals

By popular demand!  Mental health workers, doctors, lawyers, and any other professional that serves our communities are encouraged to attend this meet & greet and networking event.  Gain resources throughout the northeast and beyond, meet your colleagues and share ideas.

 

 

Birds of a Feather - Soldiers & Veterans

A meet & greet for soldiers and veterans to celebrate Veteran's day and discuss issues of serving or having served in the military and being part of our communities.

 

 

Birds of a Feather - Teens and Young Adults

A meet & greet just for teens, young adults and students.  A chance to talk about what is happening in your school or community, how to handle family life and other issues relevant to being young.

 

 

Bisexuals In Mixed Orientation Relationships - Living Fabulous - Mark Rheault

Living life as a bisexual in a mixed orientation relationship or marriage where one partner is bisexual and the other is straight presents a wide variety of issues and challenges. Building on the enthusiasm from our previous Pathways to Success workshop this session will feature a review of the complicated dynamics of mixed orientation relationships with an eye towards positive outcomes. We will emphasize the benefits of building an authentic healthy relationship that features open communication and acceptance of the bisexual partner. We will examine everything from coming out to those around us to some of the key elements of the process that lead to success.

There will be time to share stories by others in mixed orientation relationships as we can all learn from those who have traveled this journey with us. Participants will take away a greater understanding that mixed orientation relationships can be positive rewarding successful relationships for everyone involved. It doesn’t just get better it gets fabulous.

 

 

Born this Way: A Diva's Guide to Embracing Confidence - The Red-Headed Diva

As indviduals who lead an "alternative" lifestyle, we are often asked, "when did you become like this"? It's an odd question, as many of us were born this way. It's a part of who we are, and nothing or no one can change that. This workshop will take a look at how to embrace the feelings we were born with. It will help us understand why we feel amazing, and how we should always feel that way no matter what path we are led down. Through interactive discussion we will learn how to handle negativity, outside influence, and fear of what other might think. We will talk about what makes us feel fabulous, and the little secrets that help you feel like your inner diva has been embraced. 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, or just need that extra push to get going in the right direction, please join me for this important talk.

 

 

Closing Ceremonies

Join us in closing the conference with a ceremony. We will do a short Transgender Day of Rememberance Ceremony, announce the 2012 TBC Chairs and a few other activities. This is a great chance to meet up with your new friends from the weekend and say goodbyes.

 

 

Communication and Coping Skills for the Ups & Downs of Love & Life - MJ

Is communication within your relationships difficult? Do you struggle with irrational thoughts about life or love? Are you standing in the way of your own happiness? If any of these ring true for you, please come and share as MJ goes over "I" communication, a written way to hash out your irrational thoughts and just an overall view of how you can be better for yourself and the others you care for. Attendee participation seriously encouraged. Bring a pen.

 

 

Create Your Own Workshop

Several class slots have available rooms for Create Your Own Workshops.  These are first come, first served spaces to hold that panel, workshop or discussion that is missing from the weekend.  Whiteboards, flipcharts and markers are available.  Several of these have become classes the year after their debut, so don't be shy!  Share your ideas with the rest of the conference!  Sign-ups are available at the Information Table.

 

 

Dance Party with DJ Purple

Saturday night social dance. Enjoy some great music with friends!

 

 

Embracing A Both/And Identity in an Either/Or World - Robyn Ochs

Having any sexual orientation or gender identity comes with its own baggage, there are particular issues faced by people who identify as bisexual, pansexual, genderqueer, or who use other labels that defy an either/or interpretation of the world. Together we will examine these issues and devise strategies to proudly "be all that we can be." Double session

 

 

Emergency!  Planning for Unplanned Healthcare - Kelli Dunham

Bisexual, Pansexual, Transgender, Genderqueer, Intersex, Kink/BDSM, Polyamorous and other communities traditionally underserved by our health care systems are often particularly—and understandably-- wary of seeking emergency care, even when care is badly needed. In this interactive workshop, genderqueer nurse and comic Kelli Dunham walks participants through a visit to the emergency room, presenting information about general ER infrastructure and leads participants in brainstorming and role playing ways in which they can be empowered to facilitate relatively positive endings to various ER scenarios. Also included will be a discussion of picking an ER buddy and developing a written ER plan.

 

 

Event Feedback - Ian Rose & Laurel Pickard

What did we get right this year at TBC? What could we improve so that TBC 2012 is even better? Have an idea for a perfect panel? Come talk to the 2011 and 2012 Con Chairs and tell us your thoughts in this informal session. This is also a great opportunity to find out more if you would like to join our organizing team for next year.

 

 

Exploring Dynamics and Trans/Cis Relationships - Wintersong Tashlin

There are unique internal and external challenges and joys in relationships between transgender people and cisgender people. While everyone's experience is different, there are common themes that crop up from within and without in this situation. Together we will look at some of the internal processes, communication strategies, experiences of and in community, distinctive dynamics, and more, that are sometimes found these relationships, with an eye towards being healthier, happier and more understanding partners.

 

 

False Dichotomies and Privilege - Kate Bornstein

 

 

Femme Visibility: Peek-A-Boo I see you! - MJ

I came up with the idea for this class while watching a performance piece by Ivan Coyote called "To all the Fierce, Beautiful, Full Bodied Femmes Out There...". Once I composed myself after being so touched by his words, I felt as though I can't be the only Femme out there that feels this way, admittedly invisible. This class isn't so much a "teaching workshop" but a facilitated group discussion of how we cope in society with our families, our health care providers, our lovers and last but not least our own community that often look right over us due to presentation. How heteronormative presentation/priviledge can work for us and against us. What we do to feel good about ourselves when we are continually "coming out". Ideally, I'd like this class to be limited to 20 participants. 18+.

 

 

Friday Night Comedy Show - Kelli Dunham

Kelli Dunham is an award-winning genderqueer ex-nun nerdcomic and author as well as a registered nurse with more than a dozen years of experience in community health. Kelli's comedy has been seen at colleges, clubs, and pride celebrations nationwide, on Showtime Network and the Discovery Channel and once—just once—at a livestock auction. Her humorous health presentation Queer Bodies Queer Selves is a particular college favorite. Kelli really wants to connect with you, so you can find her on every social networking platform known to humans (facebook, twitter, livejournal, youtube, tumblr) as KelliDunham.

 

 

Gender Improv 1 & 2 - 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!!!!

 

 

Genderqueer/Genderfluid Panel - Chavela, Cicely, Etana, Lisa Jacobs, Mark Rheault

According to Urban Dictionary, “Gender Fluid is a gender identity best described as a dynamic mix of boy and girl. A person who is Gender Fluid may always feel like a mix of the two traditional genders, but may feel more boy some days, and more girl other days.  Being Gender Fluid has nothing to do with which set of genitalia one has, nor their sexual orientation.”  A related term, Gender Queer is described as “People who do not fit within the traditional 2 gender role of Male or Female. This may be someone who feels they have some of both genders or someone who feels they have no gender."  TBC’s Gender Fluid panel seeks to provide an opportunity for discussion and Q&A by those who not identifying as transgendered, but also don’t feel they fit within a binary gender system.  Panelists will speak from a wide range of perspectives and be open to questions from the audience.

 

 

Gender Variant Neologisms - Widow Centauri

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 mainstream usage and about the perception of gender variant language within the LGBTQQIIK & GQ community.

 

 

Getting On the Radar: Where We Fit In to the World of Public Health - raycho

Ever feel like the health care system doesn't even know you're there, much less how to deal with you? Is your answer to a lot of yes/no public health issues "does not compute"? Wondering why you rarely see yourself reflected in public health campaigns, surveys or programs? This workshop, presented by a bisexual, poly, disabled, fat public health professional (yes, those do happen!) will cover basic information about the realities of data collection, funding, politics, and education as they affect public health in the U.S. The workshop will have a systemic, population-centered focus rather than concentrating on individual health care. Questions are welcome!

 

 

Growing Up Queer, A Child and Parents Perspective - Wintersong Tashlin and Ellen Meyers

Wintersong came out to his parents when he was thirteen years old (1993). In this workshop, Winter and his mom recount their mutual journey through his (very) queer adolescence and beyond. What struggles did they share, and what were more personal? How do their memories and experiences of the same periods compare? Where did each of their visions of the future come to fruition, and where did the train of life jump a track (or three)? And what can their shared experience offer other families, regardless of age?

 

 

Happy Hour Burlesque

Happy Hour Burlesque is happy to return for their third year at Transcending Boundaries Conference. For the few years Happy Hour has taken their sideshow cabaret to conventions, conferences, and concert halls. Shows may include bellydance, flag routines, humor, drag, skits, music, bad taste, and of course, panties.

 

 

Homelessness, Substance Ab/use, Mental Wellness Concerns, & Trans*/GNC/Intersex-Identified Folks - Liam Bechen

Homelessness, addiction, mental wellness concerns, and the intersections of these challenges are often a silent and stigmatized experience for the trans*/GNC/intersex communities. Navigating shelters segregated by sex and gender can make finding safety and support amidst homelessness challenging. Lack of inclusive mental wellness and substance ab/use systems and providers that fail to understand the additional lens of trans*/GNC/intersex identity can make accessing these systems tricky and, at times, invalidating. This workshop will focus on creating safe(r) space for youth and adult homeless and formerly-homeless trans*/GNC/intersex-identified folks to discuss their experiences as well as special considerations for adult trans*/GNC/intersex folks experiencing homelessness, poverty, housing instability, substance abu/se, and/or mental wellness concerns as identified by these communities themselves. Providers in these systems are welcome to attend and listen to these stories, but this space is primarily designated as a safe(r) space for individuals from these communities to talk openly about our experiences.

Interfaith Service - Alex Solomon, Amelia Stehn - Please join us for an inspiring service of contemplation and celebration. Take the theme of "Beyond the Binary" to heart as we transcend our multiple faiths to share with each other through words and ritual. This service will be led by Hospitality Director Alex Solomon and presenters of many faiths, and is open to all, regardless of religion or spiritual persuasion. Even those with no spiritual impulse will find meaning in this community gathering.

 

 

Intersex Issues in Social Health and Politics - Raven Kaldera

How does the conundrum of intersexual identity fit in with the various facets of gender politics and activism? How does it figure as a social health issue, or as an issue of feminist and progressive politics? More to the point, what can we actually do about the problems of intersex people, without seeing them as theoretical justifications, colonizable poster children, or circus freaks? This workshop will discuss practical possibilities for all of us.

 

 

Intersex Simularities amd Differences with Transpeople - Elder A. Vickie Boisseau

This workshop will exploring the social, legal, and medical issues faced by many intersex people, as well as the similarities, and differences between intersex and transgender people, as well as a look at the medical profession, and how they've handeled us.

Most useful for: Providers, Practioners, students, doctors, or anyone who wants to learn about intersex.

 

 

Kabbalat Shabbat - Amelia Stehn

Kabbalat Shabbat is the Friday night service in Judasim. It's based somewhat in the mystical tradition of Kabbalism, and all are invited to join us for some singing and praying. Prayers in Judaism are often sung, so even if you're not very familiar with them, you can still hum along! doors will be closed at 10 minutes after start time; we politely request that people do not enter the room once the doors are shut.

 

 

Kink/BDSM Panel - Jawn, Jawn's Doll, Laurel Pickard, rabbit, Wintersong Tashlin

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"?  What’s SSC and is that the same thing as RACK?  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! 18+

 

 

Kinky Feminism - Nicole Sullivan

Feminism has often presented itselfs as anti-kink. This class will explore the reasoning behind those beliefs and ways to break them down and bring more visibility to the role of kinksters in the movement. There will also be some focus on problematic aspects of kink in terms of feminism.  18+.

 

 

LGBT Youths and Issues of Bullying - Eunice Aviles

When we don’t fit into a “social category”: LGBT youths and issues of bullying.  Tools for mental health providers to empower these individuals to prevent and deal with the biopsychosocial consequences of bullying.

 

 

Living Polyamory - Sheri Stevens

Living Polyamory will encompass the day to day challenges, joys, and upheavals of opening your hearts and lives to more than one person. We will talk about how it can affect family, children, friends, work and events. This discussion will include audience participation to explore a selection of different situations in order for us all to learn and grow in our convictions and lifestyle.

 

 

Loving Two In One: Sex and Relationships with Transgendered Lovers - Raven Kaldera & Joshua Tenpenny

It takes a special kind of person to be in a relationship with a transgendered person. We're complex people with a lot of special needs, but we're worth it. We'll explore what it takes to date, love, and commit to people who are more than just male or female. This workshop is for anyone of any gender who loves, lusts after, or embodies the sacred Third.  18+.

 

 

Making Open Relationships Work - Tristan Taormino

Do open relationships really work? How do people create nontraditional partnerships that are loving and lasting? Tristan Taormino, relationship expert and author of Opening Up, shares some of the key principles that can help your open relationship(s) succeed. She'll discuss common issues and problems-from "new relationship energy" and time management to jealousy and agreement violations-and ways to address and resolve them. Tristan will offer tips on communication, negotiation, and boundary setting, as well as how to cope with change. Learn how to get to the root of jealous feelings and transform them by embracing the concept of compersion. Whether you're a newcomer or veteran to the world beyond monogamy, come discover strategies to help you nurture and grow your open relationship(s).

 

 

Masters And slaves Together (MAsT) Open Meeting

 

 

Navigating Parenting in Poly Relationships In The Real World - Kelsea Dunham

This discussion will focus on parenting while in a poly relationship, with topics including, but not limited to: Navigating poly relationships, Scheduling, What to tell the kids?, How much information do you give to other parents/friends of child/non-partners?, How do you stay safe while navigating these waters?

 

 

Navigating Poly - Wintersong Tashlin

There are many forms of polyamorous relationships, each with their own challenges and joys. This practical workshop is designed to give people concrete tools for navigating the rocky shoals of various poly structures, while also helping to expand ideas of what forms of relationship dynamics are out there.

 

 

No Straight Lines: Drawing Sexuality and Gender in Comics - Katie Diamond

For the creation of "Transcension,” a chapter in Gender Outlaws: The Next Generation, Diamond teamed up with the fiery talent of Boston-based drag/burlesque performer Johnny Blazes (www.johnnyblazes.com) to create a collaborative comic about Blazes’ experience discovering hir “genderqueeritude,” and the process of accepting one’s trans identity as a growing, changing experience of gender and the world.

In her talk, Diamond dissects the process she went through to create the succinct and rich visuals for telling Johnny’s story, and the various struggles and triumphs of what it means to represent gender and sexuality in two dimensions. Years of study and experimentation have given Diamond the tools to fully examine and create artistic methods that allow for subtly and intrinsically altering readers’ perspectives on culturally taboo topics such as transsexuality, transgenderism, sex, and sexuality.

 

 

On Dichotomies That (No Longer) Jail Me - maymay

Dichotomies, a set of things that are exclusive of an opposing set of things, are useful but are also necessarily polarizing and can often be disempowering. In this light-hearted slideshow, maymay will help you recognize which dichotomies are useful and which are not. Using a mix of personal and historical storytelling, he'll reveal how society is filled with many more dichotomies than you may have thought, especially when it to comes to sexuality. You'll learn how to instantly spot false dichotomies, gain some tools for breaking out of them, and explore why breaking these binaries can be personally empowering. After the slideshow, stick around for an interactive Q&A.

 

 

One-on-One Time - Ellen Meyers, Eunice Aviles

One on one time will be available on a first come - first served basis with some of our wonderful presenters.  This is a great opportunity to ask your burning questions or get some resources in a more private setting.

 

 

Our Liberation!: Using Interactive Theater to Untangle Oppressions - Holly Richardson and Out Now/Quest: Chino Rios, Mikeli Hall, Jae Varzeas, Stickii Gadson, Jen Higgins

The workshop we are proposing for the conference is entitled “Our Liberation!: Using Interactive Theater to Untangle Oppressions,” created and implemented by the QuEST project.  QuEST (Queer Empowerment through Solidarity and Truth) is the political arm of Out Now, which Out Now youth leaders formed to address the violence in our communities.  We are currently focused on developing “Our Liberation!” This project uses Theater of the Oppressed techniques in which the audience and presenters work together to strategize and disrupt incidents of oppression.  Theater of the Oppressed calls on participants to re-imagine the roles of actor and spectator, merging them together to create spect-actors.  With the increased attention being paid to peer abuse and harassment and how it contributes to increased rates of suicide among LGBTQ youth, we believe that our Theater of the Oppressed workshop has great potential to empower our audiences to intervene and stop oppressive and violent behavior among peers that has its roots in racism, homophobia, and other oppressive systems.

 

 

Panel of Awesome: The Future of Our Community - Kate Bornstein, Lorelei Erisis, Raven Kaldera, Robyn Ochs, Tristan Taormino

Come join previous Transcending Boundaries keynotes and some other past presenters speak on what the future of our communities look like.

 

 

Photography for Every Body - Jawn & Jawn's Doll

Some people can't help but look great in pictures. For those of us who don't, there are some simple tips and tricks you can use to make yourself look fantastic! In this workshop, we will explore how to pose to accentuate your best features, look at some psychology behind "masculine" and "feminine" poses, and go through the basics of lighting and model releases. This workshop is for models and photographers alike, and will be interactive. Bring your cameras!

 

 

Plenary Luncheon

Lunch will be served on Saturday. Please join us for a wonderful moment of community. Kate Bornstein will give her keynote speech, and as time allows a community meeting will be held, allowing groups and individuals to share their projects and resources.

 

 

Popping the Queer Cherry: Sex and Virginity Beyond Heteronormativity - Aida Manduley and Liam Stansen

When discussing virginity, all those who don't fit neatly into a heteronormative box usually get left out. In fact, for a society so focused on "doin' it," we rarely talk at length about what "it" really means! In this interactive workshop, we will explore how queer sexuality in its broadest sense--with the variety of identities, practices, and bodies it encompasses--challenges and complicates ideas of sex and virginity. We will also discuss how we can begin to articulate definitions of these terms that are inclusive of a wide spectrum of people and practices, paying attention to why these issues and questions even matter. 18+.

 

 

Polyamory Panel - Micah, raycho, Sheri Stevens

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.  Maybe you’re already practicing polyamory, but you’re running into issues.  If describes you, then come to the Poly Panel and get some answers.  Several practicing poly folk will take questions and provide their unique perspectives on consensual non-monogamous relationships. Who sleeps where?  How do you come out as poly to loved ones? What if your partners  don't get along? What's NRE?  What’s it like to parent in a polyamorous family?   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.

 

 

Radical Dirty Talk: Using Active Consent to Enhance Your Sex Life - Parks Dunlap

Radical Dirty Talk is a workshop focusing on how to utilize active consent as a tool to enhance your individual sexual experiences. The information included in the workshop pulls from BDSM culture and radical sex publications. Using the idea that communication is key to having your needs fulfilled, and a way to combat the rape culture we exist within. Topics such as substances and sexuality, how to set/respect boundaries, and how to discuss consent with partners will be addressed.  18+.

 

 

Religion and Spirituality: 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

 

 

Safe/Ward - Etana

This is an interactive, hands-on workshop for community members and leaders looking to understand and address sexual, physical, and emotional abuse within communities that practice BDSM/kink and alternative sexualities/relationships. Created by Kitty Stryker and Maggie Mayhem of San Francisco, this workshop will look at the culture of entitlement that exists and permeated BDSM/alt-sex space, and work towards a culture of consent. By actively taking a stand against abusive behaviors and learning how to hold ourselves accountable, we can act to reduce the frequency of predatory actions. This is our community - this is our problem.

 

 

SALACIOUS Party

 

 

Self Care for Activists - Robyn Ochs

"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. Double session

 

 

Spirituality Panel - Alex Solomon, Amelia Stehn, Fire Tashlin, Sara

Historically (and even currently (witness the influence of “The Christian Right”)) many churches have not always been the most welcoming of places for folks of “alternative” genders or sexualities.  The reverse is sometimes also true.   Many of us have experience dissonance or even exile when trying to remain true to our various gender and sexuality identities while still getting our spiritual needs meet.  Panelists will speak about how their spirituality interacts with their various identities.  Along the way questions that may be explored include:  What spiritual paths and religious traditions have always been more welcoming to Queer folks?  What movements are afloat to make “traditional” churches more welcoming? What do various religious texts really say about homosexuality?  Can you be kinky and X? Can you be poly and X?  Panelists will speak from a wide range of perspectives and be open to questions from the audience.

 

 

Substance Abuse and Sexual Minorities - Alex Bettencourt

Substance abuse and addiction is a skeleton in the closet of LGBTQI and sexual outsider communities. Recent studies and surveys show that the rate of substance abuse and addiction among us is rising and is at a current all time high. How can we address and support our friends and chosen family who are struggling with these issues? What can we do at our events and parties to support an environment without substances? We'll explore what substance abuse and addiction looks like, how it specifically affects our population, how we can seek treatment for ourselves and our friends, and what specific things might stand in our way of doing so. Come for a frank discussion about sensitive issues from a substance abuse professional. Open to all, no late admission.

 

 

Telling Stories: Winning Trans Rights Community Driven Media and Public Education - Gunner Scott and Maddie Collins

This workshop will educate transgender people and our allies on how to advocate, represent, and speak for themselves in the media and how to create community driven media and public education. We will also update participants on status of the Transgender Equal Rights legislation on State and Federal levels. The goal of community driven media is to broaden the public’s perception of the trans community, our families, friends, and allies. The workshop includes tips for talking with media, creating your own media, and a discussion about MTPC’s multi-media public education campaign entitled “I AM: Trans People Speak” In the second part of this workshop, you will learn how you can participate, in making your own video, written story or audio piece for the “I AM: Trans People Speak” campaign. This campaign was created to educate the public about the lives of transgender youth, adults, families, and allies in order to reduce the amount of misunderstanding, stigma, discrimination, and violence that transgender people face and to advance equality and access. We will also provide assistance on how to use this project to benefit media makers on their own reporting on transgender issues and individuals.

 

 

Toys for Every Body - Sarah Lemons

Does the world of dildos, buttplugs, vibrators and bullets make you confused? Do you know the difference between silicone and cyberskin when shopping for a new toy? I'll be leading you through different types of toys from inexpensive to luxury with examples for every body type. Get to see all kinds of toys without the pressure to purchase and fun ways to incorporate them into your bedroom or play party regardless of gender.  18+.

 

 

Transcending and not Transcending Boundaries:  Shopping, Caution and Beyond in the Poly/Counselling/Healthcare Interface - Linda Marks, Emily Page and Bill Slaughter

Let's talk about psychotherapy/counseling/psychiatry and polyamory. -who work in the mental health field in the Boston area--will give brief introductory information on this topic.  Then the rest of the workshop will be an interactive discussion about looking for and taking part in counseling with a focus on poly--including suggestions, experiences and cautions on shopping for a therapist/doctor. Come talk with us!

 

 

Transcending Boundaries Primer - Widow Centauri & Lorelei Erisis

An improvizational lexicon and welcome to the Transcending Boundaries Conference.  Get a humorous take on the words and phrases you'll be hearing throughout the weekend from stand-up comedienne Widow Centauri and improv artist Lorelei Erisis.

 

 

Transgender Panel - Chuck Fellows, Kate Bornstein, Lorelei Erisis, 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. The Trans panel provides a forum for the questions you normally aren't comfortable asking. Several trans folk 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.

 

 

TransSex: A Facilitated Discussion - Tristan Taormino & Colten

How does your gender impact your sex life? What kinds of sex are you having, not having, or wish you were having? How can you better negotiate physical and emotional boundaries, safer sex, BDSM, and fantasies? This is a safe space for transpeople, partners of transpeople, and allies to talk about sex in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Come share your challenges, triumphs, issues, and tricks, and let’s figure out some of the ways we can create satisfying, empowering sex lives.  18+.

 

Veteran's Day Ceremony

Please join us as we take a few moments to thank the individuals in uniform who have served in the military. All are welcome to attend.

 

 

Visualizing Sexual Self-Identity; Gender's Big Bang - maymay

Man and women: that's it! Or is it? In 1948, Alfred Kinsey suggested that there were gradations in sexual orientation, breaking the stranglehold of a heterosexist society on the validity of sexual experience. Shortly thereafter, gay people and (to a lesser extent) bisexual people began entering public awareness, no longer forced into the invisibility of the closet. However, notions of sexual orientation are still tied to being either "a man" or "a woman." What if you're neither? Today, transgender individuals are on the forefront of challenging the gender binary. Going far beyond a simple scale like Kinsey's, new theories suggest that the shape of gender may actually look like multiple scales, a colorwheel, or even a "gender galaxy." In this session, join maymay as he takes you on a trip "across the universe" to literally see the sights of sexual self-identity. With a slideshow featuring visualizations of theoretical gender models, he'll showcase the vast diversity of human sexual self-identity both within and beyond either sexual orientation or gender identity alone. We'll explore the "final frontier" within ourselves, and boldly go where no man, no woman, where NO ONE has gone before!

 

 

What Kind of Leader am I - Bendyogagirl

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. We all do. 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.

 

 

Why Bisexual/Pansexual Organizing Matters: Implications of the SF Human Rights Commission Report - Lisa Jacobs

The San Francisco Human Rights Commission LGBT Advisory Committee released a report in 2011 on "Bisexual Invisibility: Impacts and Recommendations." This groundbreaking report revealed that bisexuals/pansexuals suffer higher incidents of health problems than gays and lesbians, suicidality rates in bisexuals are far higher than for lesbians or heterosexuals, and identified the paucity of services that specifically address bisexual needs. In this workshop, we'll discuss the implications of this report and brainstorm how it can be used to strengthen bisexual/pansexual activism.

 

 

Writers Panel - Chuck Fellows, Katie Diamond,Nick Kreiger,and  Tristan Taormino

Our communities have a rich literary tradition. Panelists will speak about and share examples of their work. They will also discuss how their work is influenced by their gender and sexuality. They may also discuss historical and cultural influences on their work. This panel is for writers. There will be another panel on Saturday of visual and performance artists.

 

 

Writing: Empowering Your Pen - Nick Krieger

Writing is a scary and liberating process, and a great tool for self growth and social change. Many of us dream of writing a personal essay, opinion piece, novel, or a blog. But few of us actually begin. Today is your day. This is a workshop about you: your stories and your experiences, in your own words. Part discussion and part hands-on, we’ll briefly discuss the importance of telling our unique stories, as well as the challenges of writing outside categories, boxes, and binaries. We’ll explore some of the obstacles to sitting down with a pen and paper, and through a few short structured writing exercises begin to unleash our own creative spirits. Finally, we’ll conclude with some tips to keep you writing after the workshop ends. - Please join us as we take a few moments to thank the individuals in uniform who have served in the military. All are welcome to attend.