|
| Name: |
Christie Elan-Cane |
| Email: |
--- |
| Tel: |
0171 252 3583 |
| Address: |
37 Aland Court, Finland St, London SE16 1LA |
| Title: |
A World without Gender |
| Abstract: |
From a position outside the bi-polarised gender system I am forced to
challenge a system that excludes me.
Why is gender ingrained into the way society operates and why are there only two genders
(based on the physicality of the body) that have social validity?
Society is run on a basis that there is a strict division between the roles of male and
female, but why did the divisive gender system evolve through the physical differences
between the sexes? Why are individuals who are sexually ambiguous at birth given
non-consensual treatment to "make" them either male or female?
At present one has to declare whether one is male or female to gain access to all vital
services. The inability to do so excludes the individual on a scale unimaginable to any
other minority suffering discrimination in the 'democratic' world. It is fear of this
social exclusion that makes the individual unable to challenge the bi-polarised gender
system. |
| Name: |
Peter B Farrer |
| Email: |
--- |
| Tel: |
0151 427 6640 |
| Address: |
63 Salisbury Rd, Garston, Liverpool, L19 0PH |
| Title: |
Letters on Cross Dressing |
| Abstract: |
The presentation will be in three sections:
A) Summary of the newspapers etc. involved and how discovered:
The Englishwoman's Domestic Magazine (Doris Langley Moore);
Town Talk, The Family Doctor and Society (guessed that if had whipping
letters would also have tight-lacing);
Modern Society and Photo Bits (Havelock Ellis);
Bits of Fun (Press Directory).
B) Eight types of situation chosen and examples given of each:
1) Continuation of Petticoats (boy dressed as girl until 14);
2) Resumption of Petticoats (boy of 14 put into girls' clothes);
3) Girls' Clothes as Punishment (troublesome boy of 13 made to wear
girls' underclothing);
4) The School Play (mother makes son practice wearing girls' clothes);
5) Trying on Women's Clothes (boy of 14 caught by aunt);
6) Making a Pretty Boy (boy dressed up as girl "for the benefit of
the ladies");
7) Masquerade (young officer accompanies cousin dressed as woman);
8) Petticoat Government (wife compels husband wear female dress when
alone).
C) Progress.
Extracts published up to 1920: Still to review (publicity available
papers): London Life (1926 to 1941), The Sunday Chronicle (1927) and the Canadian Justice
Weekly (1949 to 1972). The difficulty is that the contributions become increasingly far
fetched. |
| Name: |
David Freedman |
| Email: |
dfresearch@c-freedman.demon.co.uk |
| Tel: |
0181-452 5720 0973-885236 (Fax by arrangement only: 0181-452 5720) |
| Address: |
11 Exeter Road London NW2 4SJ |
| Title: |
Transgender Roles in Modern Theater |
| Abstract: |
The talk will cover two areas of musical theater. It will look at the
trouser or breeches role in opera and at the Principal Boy and Dame in British Christmas
Pantomime.
When sitting in the theater watching an opera which includes a trouser role we are being
asked to accept that a woman singing in a high voice (either soprano or more often high
mezzo-soprano) is a viable, real man within the context of the piece - the roles I am
considering were not written originally for castrati - why were they written? We do not
find men in western opera singing the roles of women and yet we, as the audience, are
expected to accept this extraordinary situation, stretching our suspension of belief to
believe in these dramatis personae.
In the broad comedy of Christmas pantomime the Principal Boy is, again, a serious
(straight!) role, where s/he woos and wins the hand of the pretty young maiden. The Dame,
by contrast, is a broad comic, unreal role. Do we, as a culture, find it in some way
dangerous to accept a
man playing a woman but enjoy women being men? |
| Name: |
Miqqui A. Gilbert, Dept. of Philosophy, York University, Canada |
| Email: |
Gilbert@YorkU.CA |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
A Sometime Woman: The Limits of Social Construction |
| Abstract: |
The conceptual apparatus of Social Construction Theory [SCT] has played a
large role in the recent research in gender and transgender issues. The basic idea that an
individual need not be limited to a birth-designated gender based on apparent genital
identification finds support in the conception that gender is a cultural artifact
supported by historical, political and social institutions.
My paper applies SCT to the situation in which a cross dresser find him/herself. In this
case, as opposed to the transsexual who permanently adopts (or has always adopted) the
opposite" gender, the cross dresser treats gender as something that is put on and
taken off. The question is, can SCT support an activity of this nature? I argue that it
can, but that generalizations regarding cross dressing must be scrutinized in order to
determine if such a conceptual apparatus can apply. |
| Name: |
Stella Gonzalez-Arnal, Dept. of Philosophy, University of Hull |
| Email: |
--- |
| Tel: |
01482 465995
Fax: 01482 466122 |
| Address: |
Hull, HU6 7RX |
| Title: |
The Ambiguous Politics of Petticoating |
| Abstract: |
"Petticoating" is a form of cross-dressing usually practiced in
the context of heterosexual sadomasochistic encounters. The submissive in a petticoat
feels humiliated by having to dress as a woman and by having to behave as a woman.
Petticoating has all the ingredients of a straightforward politically incorrect form of
sexuality. It considers women's clothing and women's traditional occupations as inferior
and humiliating; reinforcing undesirable stereotypes by characterizing females as
submissive, passive, helpless and subservient. From a feminist perspective it is a
practice that should be avoided. I will argue that petticoating is a politically ambiguous
form of sexuality which can have positive readings. I claim that it can be educational and
therapeutical and that it can subvert our notions of masculinity and femininity. |
| Name: |
Jamison Green, President FTM International. |
| Email: |
jamisong@aol.com |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
The Art and Nature of Gender |
| Abstract: |
The prevailing framework for conceiving and discussing gender today is
social constructionism. The weakness of this predominantly feminist critique of gender is
that it is positioned firmly on a platform of opposition to a particular form or male
dominance, patriarchy, and without this grounding principle from which feminism flings its
barbs, its theories bear little relevance to individual experience of gender outside of
this context.
Aspects of gender ARE socially manipulated and culturally reinforced, but I believe gender
pre-exists social manipulation. Certainly gender IS used as a tool to oppress people, to
control who has power and authority, but its power symbols and their meanings vary across
time and between cultures. This observation, combined with introspection and observations
of children, lead me to propose that gender is a type of language to which everyone has
varying degrees of access. Our access to gender is equivalent to the power to speak,
rather than to the sound or meaning of the words themselves.
In this paper I explore the concept that gender is natural as well as social (artificial,
or art), and offer a new paradigm that I hope mitigates against the dominance and
oppression model of gender theory. |
| Name: |
Prof. Richard Green, GIC, Charing Cross Hospital |
| Email: |
--- |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
Fulham Palace Rd, Hammersmith, London |
| Title: |
Transsexual´s Children: Divorce and the Implacable
Spouse |
| Abstract: |
Divorcing male transsexuals are confronted by implacable resistance from
their spouse against continuing their parenting role. Mothers, mother's new male partner
and some psychiatric experts forge an alliance that ruptures the parent-child relationship
and ensures its slow death by denying contact. The mother's "implacable
opposition" to continuing transsexual parent-child contact is portrayed with such
intensity that the consequences of requiring contact are judged more damaging to the child
than effectively terminating the relationship. During the protracted period of litigation,
an even longer interval in the relatively short experience of the child, the
non-transsexual parent promotes a negative image of the transsexual parent (the Parental
Alienation Syndrome) and any positive images fade in the absence of continuing positive
experience. With no hard data demonstrating harm to a child from continuing direct contact
with a transsexual parent, and many anecdotal experiences of a positive nature, the time
is overdue for the transgender community to fight for parental rights with the same
intensity as other, more publicized, battles raging for equal protection and fair play. |
| Name: |
Julia Greenberg, Thomas Jefferson School of Law, San Diego |
| Email: |
julieg@tjsl.edu |
| Tel: |
619 297 9700 ext. 1507
fax: 619 296 4284 |
| Address: |
Thomas Jefferson School of Law, 2121 San Diego Avenue, San Diego, CA
92110, USA |
| Title: |
The Law´s Failure to Regognize Intersexuals and the
Transgendered: A View Through the Lens of Therapeutic Jurisprudence |
| Abstract: |
For many decades, the medical and psychological communities have
attempted to resolve the issue of how one's sex should be determined. Until recently,
however, legal authorities generally have been blind to the need to define the terms male
and female for legal purposes. Although the medical literature proves otherwise, the law
has generally operated under the assumption that sex is binary, fixed and unambiguous.
Although some jurisdictions have attempted to resolve the issue for transsexuals, the law
has largely ignored the existence of other intersexed conditions. Recent medical
literature indicates that millions of individuals are intersexed and have either ambiguous
or incongruent sex features.
Whether one is defined as a male or female has increased legal significance now that many
jurisdictions have adopted legislation that bans marriages between individuals of the
"same sex." These legislative enactments fail to define the terms male and
female so that determining who is now legally permitted to marry is ambiguous. In addition
to the ability to marry, how the law defines the terms "male,"
"female" and "sex" also impacts the ability to designate one's sex on
official documents, the ability to recover for sex discrimination under employment
discrimination statutes, the ability to participate in female professional sporting
events; liability under sexual offense criminal statutes, and the obligation/opportunity
to serve in the military and in combat.
A variety of factors could contribute to the determination of an individual's legal sex.
These factors include: chromosomes, gonads, external morphology, internal morphology,
hormones, phenotype, assigned sex, and psychological sex. In most individuals, these
factors are all congruent. However, for millions of individuals, these factors are
incongruent or ambiguous. For these individuals, the law must establish which factor(s)
will control.
This paper explores how the law should define the terms "male,"
"female" and "sex." It explains how these terms have been used in
varying disciplines and in western society and other cultures. It proposes that the law
reject the currently accepted binary model for determining sex and instead adopt a more
flexible approach that reflects the purposes society seeks to accomplish through its laws. |
| Name: |
Rosemary Grimshaw, Research Nurse, GIC, St James, Leeds |
| Email: |
--- |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
Medicine Wheel Cottage, Great North Road, South Milford, Leeds, LS25 5LJ |
| Title: |
A Reflective Account of the Research Process: What it
was really Like |
| Abstract: |
This paper discusses my experience of acting as
clinician/researcher/participant in a post-graduate pilot study. The study sought to
examine the potential contributions of a specialist nurse to clients who attended the
Leeds Gender Identity Unit. Sadly a lack of support meant that further research was
unethical as clients emotional needs would have been expendable.
The preliminary report of this research was published in the Gendys 1996 conference
report. (Clegg et al 1996). I knew the clients, not as respondents, but as individuals.
The role I played within the clinic meant that I was able to develop as a reflective
practitioner by learning about client needs from the individuals with whom I worked. We
had a history together before the study had started.
Constraints forced us to adopt a reductionist approach to analysis, and only partial data
was used to prepare the co-authored paper which did not have the capacity to reflect the
relational depth which had developed between the clients and myself. This reflective
account will tell the story of the research by treating all narratives as data to
demonstrate a continuity between past, present and future. |
| Name: |
Judith Halbestram |
| Email: |
jhalberstam@ucsd.edu |
| Tel: |
212-213-8603 |
| Address: |
Univ. of California, San Diego |
| Title: |
Illegible Bodies: The Life and death of Brandon Teena |
| Abstract: |
The murder of Brandon Teena in rural Nebraska in 1991
has prompted an outpouring of narratives about this transgender subject's life and death. With two
mainstream films in the offing, an independent video making the rounds of queer film
festivals, numerous newspaper stories, a novel and a mass market true crime book already
in print, this story already commands an enormous amount of both queer and mainstream
attention. In this paper, I attempt to make sense of the narratives produced in the wake
of Brandon Teena's murder about gender, class, murder and desire. |
| Name: |
Ira Haraldsen, Alv Dahl, University of Oslo, Psychiatry Dept. |
| Email: |
guttormh@cmgm.stanford.edu |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
Psychiatry Dept., Women Wellness Clinic, Stanford University, 94305-5546,
CA, USA |
| Title: |
The Psychpathology of Patients treated for
Transsexualism |
| Abstract: |
Transsexualism has for a long time been associated with severe
psychopathology even after treatment with sexual reassignment surgery. To examine more
closely this postulate, we distributed the Symptom Checklist-90 to 80 Norwegian patients
with gender dysphoria, transsexual type, and compared their scores with the mean of 83
patients with personality disorders and with the scores of 973 healthy adults.
Method: All patients were assessed by structured interviews for axis I and II, DSM III and
IV. The healthy adults were screened for mental disorders and found well. The scores of
the SCL-90 R dimension in the three groups were evaluated statistically using ANOVA
method.
Results: The TS patients showed significantly lower mean scores on all SCL90 R dimensions.
Conclusion; Our study did not confirm that patients treated for transsexualism had severe
psychopathology. In fact their SCL90 mean scores did not differ significantly from those
of the healthy adults, and their scores were significantly lower than those of patients
with personality disorders. |
| Name: |
Dr. Michaal Haslam, MA, MD, FRCP, FRCPsych |
| Email: |
--- |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
PO Box 129, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 1JR |
| Title: |
Gender Paradoxes |
| Abstract: |
The awareness - internally - of gender is a subtle and distinct
perception from that of sexuality. Gender is seen as a dichotomy. Society is not geared,
in Western Europe, for the in-between.
What constitutes masculinity and femininity? To what extent is this determined by
environmental and family influences (identification), and to what extent by predetermined
innate genetic influences. Are these features world-wide?
How is gender dysphoria manifested? Are there genuine separate categories in this
expression, or are all the current subdivisions and supposed differences spurious? What is
the basic problem?
Is the medical model of disease and diagnosis leading to treatment in gender dysphoria
meaningful or useful? Why has society such a problem in coming to terms with the
in-between? Why are such citizens rights so often so difficult to establish?
Identify the problems that the in-between faces. There is pressure from both client and
society to move from the in-between state to one or other side of the dichotomy - usually
to that side incongruent with the anatomy.
What evidence is there that an incongruently processed brain is present in the bodies of
such people, and why is this such a source of dissatisfaction. The brain presumably has to
dominate over the body.
If we make that assumption, then what is best to be done to help and who should do it?
(1). Prevention - Issues.
(2). Alter the brain - currently impossible.
(3). Alter the body - How? Discuss. |
| Name: |
Mr. Simon Huges, Social worker, Humanitas Working
GroupTranssexualism - Gender Dysphoria |
| Email: |
Gert Master & Petra Klene, kle-mast@wxs.nl |
| Tel: |
020 523 1100
Fax: 020 622 7367 |
| Address: |
Sarphistraat 4, Postbus 71, 1000 AB Amsterdam |
| Title: |
Male Groups in the Netherlands: Specific Assistance to
Woman-Man Transsexuals and Homo Groups |
| Abstract: |
In the Netherlands a number of self-help groups have been successfully
active specifically for woman-man transsexuals. During the past two years all activities
associated with the transformation of woman to man have been concentrated in the Working
Group Transsexualism- Gender Dysphoria .
The need has emerged here to form specific coming-out groups for homosexual transsexuals,
woman-man transsexuals who appear to be homosexuals as a result of their sex reassignment.
Information and psycho-social assistance for woman-man transsexuals, in both
medical-surgical and social areas demand specific assistance methodologies which differ
essentially from the familiar assistance methods for man-woman transsexuals. |
| Name: |
Katherine Johnson, Doctoral Student, Social and Applied Psychology Group,
Middlesex University |
| Email: |
k.johnson@nw.mdx.ac.uk |
| Tel: |
0181 362 6654 |
| Address: |
Social and Applied Psychology Group, Middlesex University, Queensway,
Enfield, EN3 4SF |
| Title: |
How can we study Transsexual Identity? |
| Abstract: |
Traditionally, transsexualism has been theorized within the "Medical
Model' (Kando, 1973), which involves the collection of biographical and in-depth
psychological data, followed by a period of analysis, classification, diagnosis and
etiological theorizing (Ekins, 1997). In this paper a shift in focus is proposed, away
from the cause of transsexualism, towards the study of transsexual identity. Before
crucial questions such as 'what does it mean to be a transsexual?' can be asked, it is
important to justify the methodological approach that is employed in the study of
transsexual identity. A critique of two methods, Participant Observation utilized by Bolin
(1998), and Grounded Theory employed by Ekins (1997), is offered, before presenting the
merits of a discursive approach. It is argued that Discourse Analysis (Potter &
Wetherell, 1987; Hollway, 1989) permits the notions of subjectivity, self and identity to
be explored in such a way that enables us to address the complexity of a transsexual
identity. A greater understanding of the experience of being transsexual can only be of
benefit, if we are to see transsexuals accepted as valid and valued members of society. |
| Name: |
Mrs. Petra C. Klene, Policy Officer 'Transsexualism' and Social Worker.
Humanitas Working GroupTranssexualism - Gender Dysphoria |
| Email: |
Gert Master & Petra Klene, kle-mast@wxs.nl |
| Tel: |
+31 020 523 1100
Fax: +31 020 622 7367 |
| Address: |
Sarphistraat 4, Postbus 71, 1000 AB Amsterdam |
| Title: |
Fifteen Years of Nationwide Psycho-Social Self-help for
Transsexuals, Transgenders and their Family in the Netherlands: A
Historical Survey of the Working Groep |
| Abstract: |
In 1983 Petra assumed supervision of a modest group of transsexuals of
either sex who did not feel conformable in mixed groups of transvestites and transsexuals.
A squat in Amsterdam was the first alternative accommodation. It was a conscious
counter-flow against the pressuring medical and psycho-social hegemony in the regular
assistance sector which, when it came to the genuinely essential matters, such as
psycho-social assistance during the real-life test, more or less backed out. Assistance
was provided by the nationwide Humanitas organization, which employed volunteers,
ex-transsexuals and their partners and parents, and is largely financed by the government.
A close working relationship grew up with the Gender Team of the Free University of
Amsterdam. During the past 15 years we have, in line with our emancipation policy for
transsexuals, been responsible for a stream of publicity in Dutch society about
transsexualism. From a position of total obscurity, transsexualism has acquired a measure
of tolerance in the Netherlands. |
| Name: |
Name: Anne Kroon, Doctoral
Student, department of Sociology, Uppsala University |
| Email: |
ann.kroon@soc.uu.se |
| Tel: |
46 18 471 1505
Fax: 46 18 471 1170 |
| Address: |
Box 821, S-751 08, Uppsala, Sweden |
| Title: |
Bodily Gender: The Interelations of ´Sex´and ´Gender´in
the Psychiatric Discourse on Transsexuality |
| Abstract: |
The paper is an attempt to analyze the inter-relations of "sex"
and "gender", or "body" and "gender identity/role", in
psychiatric accounts of transsexuality. The paper focuses the pre-SRS body and its
functions for the credibility of the transsexual's gender performance, especially the
(asymmetrical) evaluation of female and male bodies. The psychiatric assessment is aimed
at ensuring the transsexual's claimed gender, but is here also understood as a
"gender gate-keeping", operating on a more subtle social level. The specific
empirical frame-work is the Swedish psychiatric assessment of transsexuals, drawing from
published psychiatric literature and Ph.D. dissertations, reports and evaluations from the
Swedish National Board of Health. It is suggested that the psychiatric assessment is based
on an assumption of a necessary correspondence between "inside" - gender
identity - and "outside" - the body and gender performance, often evaluated in
accordance with stereotypical and hegemonic gender norms. Delineating the different
criteria that meet the bodies of FTM and MTF transsexuals when evaluating what is called
the transsexual's pre-SRS "bodily conditions for living in the opposite
sex-role", the paper uses the analytical term "bodily gender" in order to
understand the body's task to signal that the carrier "inside" is a
"true" and "proper" man or woman. |
| Name: |
Alex Lawrence and Nat Moneypenny, FTM Network |
| Email: |
ac.l@virgin.net |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
Well Being – A Different Approach to the Ongoing
Treatment of Transsexual and Transgendered People |
| Abstract: |
Currently treatment offered to transgendered people is based on the
theory that they have a psychological problem. Recent research suggests that sex
difference in the brain could explain transexualism as a physiological not psychological
disorder.
In the UK transexualism is treated mainly within mental health budgets, with reference to
medication and surgery made only after seeing various mental health professionals. Post
surgery, this also applies.
This workshop, run by two FtM men with varying experiences of the NHS proposes a cheaper
strand of counseling and support. Dealing with social and emotional issues around
transitioning, from the assumption that the 'client' is probably dealing with the
ramifications of a birth defect and not stigmatize them as mentally ill. Support by
trained individuals would cover the real issues e.g.; family/work and sexual
relationships; friendships; sexuality; physical changes; self-image; rehabilitation. These
are currently presented to the medical profession, and helplines. Stresses felt by the TS
person often falls heavily on those closest to them, disregarding the crises they suffer
around their own identity.
The workshop aims to raise awareness of needs and profile possible provision. |
| Name: |
Tracey Lee, University of Warwick |
| Email: |
--- |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
Two Way Traffic: Critical Reflections on Researching
FTM´S Negotiations of Maleness, Masculinity and Manhood. |
| Abstract: |
Does the FTM trans-sexed body conform to conventional norms of sex,
gender and sexuality or does it contend the natural status of these norms? Through social
research in progress concerning FTM maleness, masculinity and manhood this question and
the frameworks in which it has been discussed will be problematised. |
| Name: |
Catherine Little, Senior Lecturer, School of Law, Manchester Metropolitan
University |
| Email: |
c.little@mmu.ac.uk |
| Tel: |
0161 247 3073 |
| Address: |
Hathersage Rd, Manchester M13 0JA |
| Title: |
Transsexuals: Police Cultures and Equal Opportunities |
| Abstract: |
to come |
| Name: |
Claire McNab, Press For Change |
| Email: |
claire@siberia.demon.co.uk |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
Get Your Hands out of My Genes: Trans People and the
Perils of Scientific Research |
| Abstract: |
A polemical and political analysis of the risks posed to trans people by
research into the origins and causes of transgenderism, examining in particular the
discourses of researchers into brain structure and genetics, and the potential uses and
abuses of research findings. Drawing on the historical experience of research into the
body, with particular reference to 20th century experiences of Social Darwinism, eugenics,
and the politics of fertility.
Research into the origins of transsexualism has provided an important counter to the
prevailing psychological explanations of the basis of transgender expression, and may have
been critical to some key legal cases. However, it does not liberate trans people from the
presumption that as deviant people, their abnormality can be tolerated only if its origins
are proven and unavoidable. Research into causes of transgenderism is not merely an
extension of colonial discourses which objectify and disempower trans people; it carries
with it severe threats, including the screening of prospective parents and testing of
fetuses to prevent the birth of trans children (already proposed by researchers in the
field), and it threatens to create new hierarchies of "proven" and
"unproven" trans people. Such research should be resisted, and transgender
rights championed as a fundamental freedom and a reflection of human diversity. |
| Name: |
Trey Maurer, CFLE, Sexuality Consultant and Trainer, Maureen Kelly,
Director of Education and Training, Planned Parenthood of Tompkins County |
| Email: |
lmaurer@epix.net, maureen_kelly@ppfa.org |
| Tel: |
607 277 4352 |
| Address: |
336 S Geneva St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA |
| Title: |
Trans-relations: Parts, Passions and Safer Sex |
| Abstract: |
What are the new possibilities and realities of being in a relationship
as or with a transperson? This interactive, informational discussion/workshop (facilitated
by a couple pondering this very question themselves) will explore the many dimensions of
relationship building and maintenance. Coming out (to the world and each other),
negotiating sexual experiences as identity emerges, and negotiating safer sex can all be
more challenging to such partners, yet potentially more regarding as well. Both the
transperson's perspective and the partner's perspective will be examined, with particular
emphasis on ways clear communication and mutual respect can enhance (or unleash) passion
and power. Important tips for maintaining good sexual and overall health, and for
obtaining quality healthcare - taking care of one's trans-self and/or trans-partner - will
also be discussed. The facilitators are experienced sexuality educators, with over 21
combined years educating about issues including sexual health, relationships, safer sex,
sexual orientation, and gender identity. |
| Name: |
Norrie May-Welby, Information and Support Worker, The Gender Centre |
| Email: |
swop@rainbow.net.au, neuter@cat.org.au |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
The Transgender Response to HIV / AIDS in Sydney |
| Abstract: |
In the late eighties, a survey by a Sydney inner city health service
found that a quarter of its transgender service users were HIV positive. Transgender
community leaders initiated a national survey to look at HIV risks and transgender
lifestyles. This survey was carried out principally by transgender academics, and the
results used by transgender lobbyists and transgender community workers to achieve social
change.
Several community organizations receive government funding to serve significant
transgender sub-populations, and most of those organizations employ openly transgender
workers. Transgender people active in politics successfully campaigned for legislative
change, perhaps most significantly inclusion in Anti-Discrimination legislation, which has
opened the way for service provider- and employer-targeted education by transgender
community workers and transgender trainers.
Sydney is not only unique in being the focal point of the Australasian transgender
population, it's also unique in it's ten year history of peer based, peer driven, and
government supported initiatives, and has one of the least legally restrictive sexwork
environments in the Western world. The author, an openly transgender community worker and
sex worker for the last decade, takes a look at what difference this has made in the
context of HIV/AIDS and related diseases. |
| Name: |
Norrie May-Welby, Information and Support Worker, The Gender Centre |
| Email: |
swop@rainbow.net.au, neuter@cat.org.au |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
Workshop: Ultra Sex |
| Abstract: |
A workshop that looks at the origins and practical implications of sex
divisions and fixed gender roles. This entertaining and informative workshop incorporates
performances by the presenter, norrie mAy-welby, a transgender community worker active in
the gender/transgender field for ten years, and the author of "A Brief cartoon Guide
to Gender and Transgender" (which will be distributed at this workshop). |
| Name: |
Valmai Mewett, Psychologist, Co-ordinator of the Sexual Assault and
Sexual Abuse Service , Torquay |
| Email: |
panderic@aol.com |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
The Transgenderist and the Family – A Bridge of
Understanding for the New Millenium |
| Abstract: |
The interaction between the transgenderist and the family may often
reflect complexity, confusion, egocentricity, malignancy and sometimes placidity. Research
into the needs and the concerns of the transgendered family have been limited and
sporadic.
The conceptual framework of the family may remain or be violently shattered. If it is
maintained there are many relationship issues to be addressed. One major issue is the
title and role within the family unit following the gender reversal of a member. This is
critical in families with children. Another looming issue is the notion of the continuing
marital status of husband and wife if a change to the birth certificate is imminent. An
ongoing research program into this area identifies the prominent needs and concerns
relating to family issues and presents suggestions and recommendations to enable the
family and transgenderist to develop coping strategies.
Current survey results will be presented at the Conference. |
| Name: |
Stan J Monstrey, Department of Plastic Surgery and Urology, University
Hospital, Gent with P.Hoebecke, K. Van Landuyt, P.Blondeel. P.Tonnard. G.Matton. |
| Email: |
stan.manstrey@rug.ac.bg |
| Tel: |
32 92 23 82 29
Fax: 32 92 40 38 99 |
| Address: |
Dept. of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, B 9000,
Gent, Belgium |
| Title: |
Phalloplasty in Female to Male Transsexuals: The Radial
Forarm Revisited |
| Abstract: |
Purpose: Microsurgical free-flap phalloplasty with a radial forearm flap
is generally considered as state-of-the-art in penile reconstruction. However, relatively
few series on free flap phalloplasty in female-to-male (F-M) transsexuals have been
published, all of them reporting an extremely high complication rate (up to 100%). The
purpose of this study was to evaluate the personal modifications in technique we made over
the last years in order to improve our results.
Material/Methods: From 1993 till 1995 thirty-two phalloplasties were performed in F-M
transsexuals. Pre-operatively, all patients were extensively screened and followed by the
different specialists of the Gender team in our hospital.
Results: Surgical complications included: total flap failure (0%), partial necrosis (6%),
compartment syndrome in the lower leg (3%), urinary constricture (9%), urinary fistula
(55%, most of which closed spontaneously over time). All patients had protective and
erogenous sensibility.
Conclusion: With increasing experience, several modifications have been introduced in our
technique which all have contributed to the relatively low complication rate in this
series compared to the literature. A detailed description is given of our current
technique: preoperative care, positioning of the patient, the dissection of the
flap,
performing the vascular and nerve anastomoses, postoperative management and the handling
of possible complications. |
| Name: |
Stan J Monstrey, Department of Plastic Surgery and Urology, University
Hospital, Gent with P.Hoebecke, K. Van Landuyt, P.Blondeel. P.Tonnard. G.Matton. |
| Email: |
stan.monstrey@rug.ac.bg |
| Tel: |
32 92 23 82 29
Fax: 32 92 40 38 99 |
| Address: |
Dept. of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, B 9000,
Gent, Belgium |
| Title: |
Refinement of the Inverted Penile Skin Vaginoplasty in
Male to Female Transsexuals |
| Abstract: |
Purpose: The inverted penile skin flap is a traditionally used technique
to reconstruct the vagina in male-to-female (M-F) transsexuals. The most common
complication of this technique is shrinkage of the neovagina. To increase the depth and
the diameter of the newly created vagina, we developed a custom-made silicone mold (length
17 cm. width 3 cm.) with a soft silicone outer surface and a hard inner core containing a
central air and fluid evacuation.
Material/Methods: We compared two groups of 12 M-F transsexuals who underwent a
vaginoplasty with exactly the same technique. The newly created vagina was filled with a
petroleum jelly tampon in the first group and with the silicone stent in the second group.
Early and long-term results were evaluated (mean follow-up: 36 ms in group I and 21 ms in
group II).
Results: Removal of the petroleum jelly was experienced as very painful in all 12 patients
of Gr I while the silicone stent could be easily removed and reintroduced without pain in
al Gr II patients. On long-term follow-up, the mean depth of the neovagina was 9.8 cm
(ranges: 6.2 - 13.7) in Gr I compared to 12.2 cm (ranges: 8.7 - 17.5) in Gr II. The
complication rate was similarly low in both groups: sloughing of the penile skin or
vaginal fistula were never observed.
Conclusion: With the use of this custom-made silicone mold the preoperative and
postoperative wound care after vaginoplasty in M-F transsexuals was greatly facilitated.
more important, the mean depth and the mean diameter of the neovagina were significantly
increased. A possible explanation for this phenomenon is the maximal distension of the
inverted penile skin flap, whose most distal part survives more like a full thickness skin
graft. An additional advantage of this inexpensive (190$) silicone stent is its usefulness
in postoperative vaginal dilation. |
| Name: |
Surya Monro, Doctoral Student, Dept. of Sociological Studies, The
University of Sheffield. |
| Email: |
s.c.monro@sheffield.ac.uk |
| Tel: |
0114 222 6475
Fax: 0114 276 8125 |
| Address: |
Dept. of Sociological Studies, Elmfield, Northumberland Rd. Sheffield,
S10 2U |
| Title: |
Genderlove and Genderfreedom: Towards an Emancipatory
Politics of Trans/gender |
| Abstract: |
This working paper reports on findings from doctoral research concerning
Transgender/transsexuality (TS/TG) and emancipatory gender politics. I utilized feminist
and empowerment methods in conducting research with TS/TG activists, community leaders and
others.
Trans problematises gender and sexual orientation binaries. Transgender people change sex
physically and/or socially and T experience includes non male/female as transition stages
and in some case as intersex or androgynous identities.
The problematisation of binaries posed by T people has important implications for sexual
politics. Politics based on binaries dissolve when biological sex becomes mutable and
gender roles more fluidly constructed. this fluidity epitomizes the poststructuralism of
Judith Butler. However poststructuralism is shown to be limited, since findings underline
the importance of gender as a means of communication and show some T people to experience
it as innate. Moreover, gender is central to social structure, and findings demand
structuralist analysis of gender inequalities.
This research explores the conflicts and possibilities occurring within Transpolitics and
how these relate to other politics of gender. Struggles rage between feminists, queer and
TS/TG activists and within TS/TG communities, where needs to assimilate clash with needs
to challenge a deeply transphobic and heteropatriarchal society. 'Gender Freedom' calls
for the recognition of diversity, agency, non harm and equality. |
| Name: |
Sam Dylan More |
| Email: |
more@fhi-berlin.mpg.de |
| Tel: |
752 66 39 |
| Address: |
Ottokarstrasse 12, 12105 Berlin |
| Title: |
Gender as (Native) Language of Self-Expression and
Communication |
| Abstract: |
Basis of the presentation is a linguistic definition of gender-identity:
This term shall be axiomatically defined as a person's preference for a certain pattern of
communication and self-expression. Language - the tool of communication - shall be defined
in a broad context, including not only words but also body-language and (body)aesthetics.
Starting from this point, main focus is questioning and exploring the intrinsic
difficulties of establishing and maintaining a functional interaction when transgender
elements are added to the gender-pattern of communication. These difficulties do not
involve only active (also legal) discriminations, but especially subconscious assumptions
which are taken as valid and are not questioned by the communication-partner of the
transsexual. They originate in the existence of socially accepted and commonly learned
communication patterns between adults for only two genders. Language-patterns which vary
from those or consist of a merge of these binary communication patterns are prone to
misinterpretation. They are read as blurry, as 'mixed messages' or as the inability or the
hesitance to make a clear-cut decision. Subsequently the nontransgendered
communication-partner may be confused, irritated or even feel offended. In order to escape
the disadvantages of this situation, society both allows and indirectly demands a physical
change e.g. surgical procedures. Quite contradictory, active discrimination and a removal
of several civil rights is usually additionally part of that procedure. This combination
is possible as transition to a more coherent presentation is also the goal of most
transsexual men and women and can be understood as tool to enable a more functional
communication.
However the extent of this transition, the archived adaptation and the willingness to
submit oneself to a surgical intervention varies from person to person and so does - not
necessarily depending on the degree of passability - society's acceptance. Too often
stigmatization and prejudices are based singularly on the knowledge that in some time in
the past a transition has occurred. As our society predominately defines gender on the
basis of the genitals which were present at birth, transition is encountered with
fundamental disbelief. Changing that approach could lead to more acceptance of transsexual
citizens. Perceiving gender as language has its advantages in this situation and could
reduce discrimination and its origin: the fear of non-transsexual people that the
transition is a reversible, non-stable or pathological behavior which cannot be trusted on
as a basis for civil communication. Society, however, has a relative uncomplicated
approach to both the phenomena of 'genuine' bilinguality or the right of citizens to their
own native language. Parallels can be also drawn to the formation of dialects and the
acquisition of second (foreign) languages. Perceiving gender as communication preference
could therefore reduce the stigma and help towards the goal of a future understanding of
transsexuality as a normal variance of human expression. Limitations of this approach,
however, exist and are demonstrated on the example of the difficulties of western people
exhibit when dealing with people from Asiatic cultures.
|
| Name: |
Tracie O'Keefe, BA, N-Shap, Adv Dip Thp., MCRAH |
| Email: |
katfox@easynet.co.uk |
| Tel: |
0171 439 1995
Fax: 0171 439 3536 |
| Address: |
Suite 412, Triumph House, 185/191 Regent St, London, W1R 7WB |
| Title: |
The Application of Ericksonian Therapy to Sex and
Gender Dysphoria and Realignment Treatment |
| Abstract: |
Throughout the last 30 years the opportunities for people to present
themselves to Gender Identity Clinics and private practitioners for Gender and Sex
realignment treatment has increased dramatically. Initially on considering this
information one would think that many more of the people who are presenting with sex and
gender dysphoria, would be taking up the opportunity to have treatment. However as we now
move forward into a new era and set of attitudes towards the availability of such
treatments, and shifting social perceptions of sex gender, and sexuality change, we need
to look more closely at the clinical situation constructs that influence the decisions of
those who present themselves as having trans-identities.
With the use of Ericksonian, permissive, personal-centered psychotherapy I have found the
reverse effect to be true with the people who present themselves to my practice. Far from
an increase in the percentage of people who present with sex and gender dysphoria going
onto full realignment treatments, I have found a decrease.
Examining the way Dr. Milton Erickson, the American psychiatrist and hypnotherapist worked
with his patients we are able to move the responsibility of testing for the validity of
genuine transsexualism onto the person presenting and away from the clinician. |
| Name: |
Dr. Zoe-Jane Playdon |
| Email: |
zoe-jane@easynet.co.uk |
| Tel: |
0171 692 3130 |
| Address: |
University of London |
| Title: |
Transsexualism in the New NHS |
| Abstract: |
The paper takes transsexualism as a case study for considering the
implications of the White Paper 'The New NHS', the Green Paper 'Our Healthier Nation' and
the Calman Report on postgraduate medical education.
It considers issues such as:
-Clinical Governance;
-a primary-care led service;
-multi-professional working and learning;
-the use of sauce-economic factors in measuring health outcomes;
-the quality of teaching;
to ask how current patterns of healthcare for transsexualism might be required to develop
in the future to meet government's new demands. |
| Name: |
Jay Prosser, Leicester University |
| Email: |
100723.2563@compuserve.com |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
Transsexuality, Autobiography, Photography: In the
Field of the Refernt. |
| Abstract: |
A slide show of photographs that appear in transsexual autobiographies.
My commentary works as a succinct introduction to some of the key concepts of my book (now
out!) -- the specific contribution transsexual narratives to the field of gender studies
Done at Cornell; Cuny; Stanford, UC San Diego this summer. |
| Name: |
Katherine Rachlin, Ph.D. |
| Email: |
Dr Kitten@aol.com |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
Factors Which Influence Consumers´Decision Regarding
Female-to-Male Genital Reconstructive Surgery |
| Abstract: |
This research attempted to explore the decision making process in people
who had considered female-to-male genital reconstructive surgery (GRS). Results indicated
that in adults the attitudes and decisions concerning altering sex characteristics were
multi-determined and that such wishes and actions had to do not only with gender identity
but with available resources, technology and individual life circumstances.
Subjects were 20 people between the ages of 21 and 50 who had been born and socialized as
female and had considered having GRS to make their genitals appear masculine and more
congruent with some aspect of their gender identity. Subjects were recruited from people
who had attended a support group for female-to-male (FTM) transsexuals in New York City
and also from participants in a FTM Conference in San Francisco. Measures - A
questionnaire was designed to explore subject demographics, what surgery subjects had or
were considering, which options they had rejected and what the major factors in their
decision had been.
? People rated contact with other FTM's and information from within the
FTM community as the most important factors influencing their surgical decisions. This was
true regardless of age, sexual orientation, or relationship with a partner.
? Medical and mental health professionals were rated as less influential
than peers.
? The majority of respondents (60%) had rejected phalloplasty and 10%
rejected metoidioplasty as an acceptable surgical option. Most reported that they did so
because the present technology was in some way inadequate or because of cost.
? None of the individuals in the sample rejected GRS because they were
satisfied with their own body.
? Sexual preference was well distributed: 60%(n=12) preferred women as
sexual partners, 30% (n=6) preferred both men and women as partners and 10% (n=2)
preferred men.
Discussion - Subjects varied in age, length of time in relationships and surgical
decisions. They all had in common some degree of GID and contact with the FTM community.
Data confirmed that contact with peers, in person or through writing, influenced their
opinions and decisions regarding surgery. The impact of professional service providers may
have figured small in this sample because of the access to other resources. Results
illustrate that it may be important for professionals to work cooperatively with community
and peer support services. Results also challenge the expectation that FTM's will request
GRS (phalloplasty in particular) and identify some of the numerous reasons why trans-men
may not undergo GRS. The incidence of FTM's who elect other options over phalloplasty, and
the needs of "Non-op" or "non-phallic" men have diagnostic, medical,
legal, and socio-political implications. Additional analysis of results, limitations of
this sample and recommendations for future research are also discussed. |
| Name: |
Elizabeth Riley, co-ordinator of The Gender Centre, New South Wales |
| Email: |
gender@rainbow.org.uk |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
Invisibility Versus Visibility: The Road to Transgender
Empowerment |
| Abstract: |
This paper will seek to address the issues of invisibility vs. visibility
for transgender people. It will explore the process of empowerment and success through
self acknowledgment, which refutes the notion of the desirability of 'passing'.
The paper will make comparisons between the externally imposed medical model and its
disempowering effects on transsexual identity and the new commitment to self determination
gaining increasing strength in transgender identity. It will examine the reasons behind
the improving standing of transgenders in the NSW community.
Using our experiences as a model the paper will demonstrate the processes followed in the
past two years to facilitate the acceptance of transgender people into mainstream NSW
society. It will look at specific networking strategies which have proved successful in
raising the general communities' awareness of the social injustices facing transgenders
and the methods employed to gain the support of people across those networks. It will also
explore how this has been catalyst to steadily increasing levels of consultation with
attendant high levels of acknowledgment and respect that we have previously been denied. |
| Name: |
Tom Reucher, Association du Syndrome de Benjamin |
| Email: |
pdavid@pasteur.fr |
| Tel: |
33 145 68 86 14
Fax: 33 1 42 73 22 40 |
| Address: |
Institut Pasteur, 25 Rue Du Dr Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France |
| Title: |
Dysfonctionnement Medicause et Juridiques Autour de la
Question Transsexualle en France |
| Abstract: |
to come |
| Name: |
Mr. Michael Royle, Miss Sarah Muirhead Allwood |
| Email: |
--- |
| Tel: |
01273 720217
fax: 01273 220919 |
| Address: |
The Hove Nuffield Hospital, 55 New Church Rd, Hove, BN3 4BG |
| Title: |
A Retrospective Two to Four Year Post-operative Result
in Male to Female Transsexual Surgery |
| Abstract: |
to come |
| Name: |
Dr. Barbara Schaff |
| Email: |
bschaff@nw80.cip.fak14.uni-muenchen.de |
| Tel: |
08151 12592
fax: 08151 918394 |
| Address: |
Institut Fur Englische Philologie der Universitat Munchen, Schellingstr.
3, 80799 Munchen, Germany |
| Title: |
Radclyffe Hall´s ´The Well of Loneliness´as an Early
Example of Transsexual Autobiographical Writing |
| Abstract: |
Since the seventies transsexual and homosexual autobiographical writing
seems to abound and has indeed created a quite substantial sub-genre of autobiographies
with its own stereotypes and patterns. But in the early days of sexological research when
Havelock Ellis, Kraft-Ebing, Hirschfeld and Freud had made their first steps towards a
non-pathological definition of homosexuality and transsexuality, Marguerite Radclyffe Hall
published her - partly - autobiographical novel "The Well of Loneliness" (1928).
This book is not only interesting because it marks the beginning of transsexual
literature, but because it takes up and discusses the theories of the leading sexologists
of the time. In my paper on Radclyffe Hall's novel I will show that there is no clear
differentiation between homosexuality and transsexuality yet, but that in the way she
constructs her hero Stephen Gordon, the novel must certainly be read as a transsexual
novel. The novel's main figures are always either ultra masculine or ultra feminine and
Radclyffe Hall leaves no doubt that gender and sexual orientation are inborn and not
socially constructed and the gender roles are never problematized or questioned. The
common feature of transsexual literature, the never doubted standards of a gendered
society, the clear-cut boundary between male and female gender which the transsexual needs
to transgress by changing his or her sex, is persistent in Radclyffe Hall's novel. But as
in her time there were no surgical methods yet available to adapt her sex to her gender,
Stephen Gordon has to learn to live, though painfully, as an invert and recognize her
inversion as fate. |
| Name: |
Dr. Jurgen Schaff, Kreisklinik Dachau - Indersdorf GmbH, Germany, with
Hans Bucher MD, Stefan Gras MD and Stefan Kerscher MD. |
| Email: |
bschaff@nw80.cip.fak14.uni-muenchen.de |
| Tel: |
08131 76 266
fax: 08131 76 210 |
| Address: |
Kreisklinik Dachau, Postfach 1409/1420, 85204 Dachau, Germany |
| Title: |
A New Concept for Phalloplasty with Free Osteocutaneous
Fibula Flap |
| Abstract: |
The advantages of free flaps for phallopasty in female to male
transsexuals are well known (Song 1982, Biemer 1988, Byun 1994). The most used procedure
is the radial forearm flap. The disadvantage of this flap is the necessity of a stiffener.
For this, a penis prosthesis is mostly used, which has a high rate of infection and
perforation. By using the osteocutaneous fibula flap these problems can be avoided. This
flap was first described for this use by Sadove (1993). In the last 5 years 12 patients
underwent this method in our clinic.
The urethra was formed with the anterior vaginal flap for the pars fixa and simultaneously
a split skin graft preformation of the ofc-fibula flap for the pars pendulans was done.
The microvascular transfer followed 3-6 months and the final urethra anastomose 3 months
later. With this method we could find a significant decrease of the rate of urethral
fistulas and stenosis.
In this paper the procedure will be demonstrated, the results are presented and discussed. |
| Name: |
Prof. Gerda Siann, University of Dundee |
| Email: |
g.siann@dundee.ac.uk |
| Tel: |
01382 345033
Fax: 01382 345029 |
| Address: |
University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 4HN |
| Title: |
Interpretations of Difference |
| Abstract: |
Psychological research and theory in the area of gender has historically
focused on differences, initially labeled as sex differences, latterly as gender
differences. The perspective on difference as measured by psychometric tests and scales.
Rejecting this perspective my own research conducted with three social groups ( students,
industrial workers, and members of five professions) focuses on gender differences in
values and social attitudes, particularly in the sphere of family life and work.
In this paper I will be contrasting the two perspectives in the context of the theoretical
debate of essentialism versus social constuctionism. I will also be arguing that current
structural social changes in employment patterns and family life are leading to the
diminution of gender differences in social values but that for most people gender, however
interpreted, remains a core component of their personal identity. |
| Name: |
Dr. Francois Sironi |
| Email: |
--- |
| Tel: |
33 1 49 40 68 51
Fax: 33 1 49 40 68 01 |
| Address: |
University Paris 8, Centre Georges Devereux, 2 Rue de la Liberte, 93526
Saint Denis, France |
| Title: |
Has Psychology Something to Say about Transsexuality? |
| Abstract: |
For God's sake, what are the psychologists doing? Where are the academics
and the researchers in clinical psychology hiding?
Although the concept of transsexuality has now existed for many decades as a specific
category of persons who, precisely, "break through" the categories of gender,
what is striking, despite this, is that the dominant theories, models and practices in
psychology haven't been modified at all by what we have learnt from what transsexual
persons have to teach us about human psychology, but most of all, about our (mal)practice.
Confronted with a highly modern problem, the medical sciences (endocrinology or surgery
for example), decided to take up the challenge (although with difficulties). Yet as
regards to, for instance, human sciences, the psychologists have a deplorable tendency to
confine the transsexual person(s) within obsolete models of thinking, considering
transsexuality as an individual, intra-psychic problem. This attitude leads to
pathologization. Actually, it is the theories themselves with which they consider
transsexuality that induces psychological suffering.
At the Center Georges Devereux (University Paris 8), we created a transsexuality research
group. Since January 1997, we have received transsexual persons with whom we try to
develop innovative ways of practicing. The group is composed of psychologists, students,
medical doctors and representatives of transsexual associations in France. We also work in
common with the entire network that surrounds transsexual persons.
We will expose our work and our methodology focusing on the following points:
- To not discriminate the knowledge of the transsexual persons themselves, considered as
"experts".
- To consider them as a group, not isolated as single "psychologically suffering
individuals".
-To analyze the psychological theories and "therapeutical models" through which
they have been thought and handled to date. |
| Name: |
Khartini Dinan Slamah, Director, IKHLAS, PINK TRIANGLE, Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia |
| Email: |
ikhlas2@hotmail.com |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
Developing Effective HIV/AIDS Programs for Transgender/Transsexuals
Working as Sex Workers. |
| Abstract: |
Issues: HIV/AIDS Education & Awareness to transgendered sex workers
community.
Projects: A transgendered program targeting the transgendered transsexuals sex workers
reaching out to transgendered community at brothels, back lanes, streets and homes of
transgendered / transsexuals sex workers. In-house, house, retreat and peer educator
workshops is also carried out. This is followed up by meetings among peer leaders who come
together to prioritize issues and action. Media orientation discussion to highlight issues
and to sensitize the public about transsexuality.
Results: Outreach is an effective method of reaching out to the transgendered /
transsexuals sex workers communities. "Fun"/retreats workshops allow them to
consider and discuss behavior change. Peer educators allow for information dissemination
to take place in a non confrontational manner. Increasing numbers of transgendered sex
workers are determined to use good quality condoms . Increasing numbers of transgendered
sex workers switching from oil based antiseptic lubricants to water based lubricant.
Issues of discrimination and abuse prevented sex workers from taking concrete steps in
ensuring that their work place and their self were safe from HIV.
Lesson Learned: Although the community was considered difficult to reach in AIDS
prevention and care. It was found that the methods of empowerment, peer education and the
creation of a
safe space were effective in bringing about behavior change. Rights of
transgendered/transsexuals could not be ignored in ensuring behavior change. |
| Name: |
Kai Chris Somers xxy MACE, BEd (Melbourne), Hons. Dip. Creative
Photography (UK), Member of IFJ, AJA, ASA. Postgraduate research student at: The
University of Western Australia. |
| Email: |
epicene@student.ecel.uwa.edu.au,
t.mckenna@cowan.edu.au |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
International Foundation for Androgynous Studies Inc |
| Abstract: |
The world's first INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION FOR ANDROGYNOUS STUDIES Inc.
has been established to promote knowledge and understanding of "intersex" and
transsexuals/transgendered persons, gays, lesbians, bisexuals and all those who exist
uneasily in a society which has naturalized divisions between males and females, sex and
gender, the queer and the normal. It encourages research into related aspects of
endocrinology, pediatrics, surgery, psychiatry, clinical and social psychology, genetics,
education, law, politics, human rights and history. It investigates gender identity as it
is largely constructed through the physical appearance, external genitalia, reproductive
organs, chromosome count, facial hair, hormonal balance, voice, sexual preference or
social practices. Consequently it opens for further inquiry the whole question of gender
(and sexuality) and to what extent those who do not fit current expectations, even when
filling in official forms, are made invisible and powerless. It allows androgynous persons
to share their stories with each other and the public.
A major international Visual and Performance Art exhibition "THE HIDDEN GENDER"
is planned where a number of highly creative and committed visual and performance
artists/writers/ poets/thinkers/film-makers/multi-media from the traditional and modern
technological arts will exhibit works focusing on gender issues related to the
androgynous/epicene people of the world. |
| Name: |
Kai Chris Somers xxy MACE, BEd (Melbourne), Hons. Dip. Creative
Photography (UK), Member of IFJ, AJA, ASA. Postgraduate research student AT: The
University of Western Australia., Ms. Delphine MacFarlane, Doctoral Candidate University
Western Australia, Mr. Tarquam McKenna, M Ed, MA, M ArtTh (ECU), Doctoral Candidate
University Western Australia. |
| Email: |
epicene@student.ecel.uwa.edu.au,
t.mckenna@cowan.edu.au |
| Tel: |
Tarquam: +61 8 9201 9335 (home), + 61 8 9370 6207 (office) |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
Workshop and Address: ´Unseen Genders´ |
| Abstract: |
The covert silencing of any person (mentally or physically) allows
society to imagine that they have eliminated the individual's difference; but in truth
that individual is further at risk of estrangement and oppression. A designated 'no place'
within society leaves a person un-addressed, without a location or terms of reference.
This form of gender oppression through hegemonic invisibility is a painful experience for
persons deemed invisible. There is, in fact, an unknown number of genders. Those that are
culturally visible, male and female, are given identities as they are known to
"exist". Those that are not visible in terms of acceptable cultural constructs,
for example "intersex" and others of mutable gender, do not exist. The 'unseen'
genders are those who are unimagined and unknown by most people, as is sexuality. The
invisible genders are people who by definition are alienated. Alienation is suppression
and oppression; forced compliance and containment of the individual. The incitement to
tell the stories of alienation and to break the silence will be our focus. Let us move
from a place where once we found it easier to prefer the occasion of being derogated to
the one of not being addressed at all (Butler) to a place where all genders are visible. |
| Name: |
Dr. Susan Stryker |
| Email: |
mulebabyxx@aol.com |
| Tel: |
---- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
North American Transgender Activism 1966-1998 |
| Abstract: |
A brief overview of efforts by transgendered people to form advocacy and
self-help organizations in the United States and Canada, beginning with the transgender
riot at Comptons's Cafeteria in San Francisco in 1966, and progressing through the
formation of Transgender Nation, Transsexual Menace and Gender PAC in the 1990s. The
presentation will touch on the relationship of activism by queer-identified transgendered
people working in academe to the emergence of transgender studies as an academic field.
Includes slides. |
| Name: |
Dr. Susan Stryker |
| Email: |
mulebabyxx@aol.com |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
---" |
| Title: |
Lou Sullivan |
| Abstract: |
An overview of and commentary on the life and works of Louis Graydon
Sullivan, pioneering advocate of FTM's and transgendered people who are homosexually
orientated in their self-identified genders. presentation coves excerpts from his
childhood and adolescent journals that express his sense of self, discussion of his
participation in gay male culture as a woman, the process of his transition from female to
male and the obstacles he encountered from service providers, his subsequent activism on
behalf of FTMs, gay and lesbian transsexuals, and on AIDS issues in the transgendered
community. Includes slides. |
| Name: |
Louis H Swartz, Ph.D., LL.M, R.N. Associate Professor of Law, School of
Law, State University of New York at Buffalo. |
| Email: |
lswartz@acsu.buffalo.edu |
| Tel: |
716 645 3010 (office) 716 691 6872 (office)
fax: 716 645 2064 |
| Address: |
State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14228, USA |
| Title: |
Legal Implications of the New Ferment Concerning
Transsexualism |
| Abstract: |
Can (and should) some version of transgender liberation triumph over more
familiar policy alternatives (namely, deference to medical authority, piecemeal legal
accommodation, non-recognition, and central regulation of sex reassignment) as the
dominant legal response to transsexualism in Common Law countries, such as the U.K., U.S.,
Australia and New Zealand? This paper provides some of the wherewithal for answering that
question. Reference is also made to the development of a somewhat diverse transgender
cultural movement, and to activism within that movement possibly affecting future social
and legal policy concerning transsexualism.
To liberate means to free from restraint. Transgender liberationism refers to a number of
action programs aimed at reducing, eliminating, or reshaping social and legal restraints
on individuals with respect to their defining or expressing their own gender or sex
identities. Included in our discussion are proposals that sex reassignment surgery should
be available upon request, that transsexualism should no longer be classified as a
psychological disorder, that individuals should be free to define and express their own
gender (or sex) identities without regard to criteria imposed by others, that a wide array
of gender (or sex) identities should be ignored and if possible completely done away with,
and that transsexuals should be encouraged to "come out" and should renounce the
goal of "passing".
The paper discusses the elements of the classical medical model of transsexualism, now
under considerable attack, and the rationale for piecemeal legal accommodation, which has
been the dominant mode among favorable responses to transsexualism in the countries
mentioned. Other familiar legal policy alternatives are also documented. The paper
concludes with a tentative assessment of each of the alternatives discussed. |
| Name: |
Dr. Ashley Tauchert |
| Email: |
a.tauchert@exeter.ac.uk |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
School of English & American Studies, University of Exeter, UK |
| Title: |
Beyond the Binary: Fuzzy Gender and the Radical Centre |
| Abstract: |
Within the disciplines of the Humanities and Cultural Studies, gender is
often discussed in the context of 'binary oppositions'. There has been a shift in the last
ten years or so to deny the category of gender as anything other than a mystification of
the illusory 'Real'. In the work of Judith Butler, this shift has generated an argument
that corporeal 'sex' as we experience it (male and female) might be itself the symptom of
the discourse of 'gender'. This paper will position itself in the 'radical centre' between
the reification of 'gender' as an immanent condition, and the 'deconstruction' of 'gender'
and 'sex' as yet another binary opposition, which tends towards the postmodern de-centered
subject. I will demonstrate that there is a middle way between oppressive gender
reification, and the free-play of the subjective signifier; that this 'radical centre'
offers feminist agency that can answer the accusations of biological essentialism or naive
universalism, and offers an account of 'gender' that is neither 'binary' nor chaotic. |
| Name: |
Melanie Taylor, York University |
| Email: |
mat103@york.ac.uk |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
54 Church View, Brompton, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL6 2RD |
| Title: |
True Stories: Orlando, Life Writing and Transgender
Narratives |
| Abstract: |
My paper demonstrates several compelling links between Virginia Woolf's
Orlando (1928) and transgender life-narratives. It examines Woolf's treatment of opposing
versions of the truth in Orlando, and whilst recognizing a marked difference in the style
and tone she adopts, suggests that the issues raised are common to experiences that inform
the narratives of many transgender men and women. These include: the scientific and legal
enforcement of a dual system of sex and gender; the role of story-telling in challenging
boundaries of "who we have been told we are"; the way that rituals of confession
and science combine in producing discourses of truth; and the tensions that operate
between inner and outer realities. In presenting this comparison, a variety of transgender
narratives are considered but the main focus is provided by a selection of autobiographies
written by transsexual women. By offering this new interpretation I demonstrate that,
seventy years after its publication, one of the pivotal questions that Orlando poses lies
at the very heart of transgender narratives - a question best framed by Woolf herself when
she asks in a different, but similar context: "But what is 'oneself'? Is it the thing
people see? Or is it the thing one is?" |
| Name: |
Lindsay Turner, Women's' Studies, Lancaster University |
| Email: |
l.turner@lancaster.ac.uk |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
The Scramble for Cultural Property and the Collision of
Communities |
| Abstract: |
This paper will be looking at the contemporary challenge of Transgendered
scholarship and activism to lesbian and gay studies, feminist theory and queer theory. I
will argue that part of this debate involves a struggle over cultural property. I will
look at the point of overlap between the lesbian and gay community and the 'gender
community' and argue that this is a site of contention. I will do this by examining
figures who are claimed as dyke icons and therefore lesbian's cultural property. This
appropriation involves the conflation of gender expression and sexual identity that elides
gender identities. I will also discuss the embrace
of Transgender by queer theory and feminist theory and argue that it is partial and
conditional. I suggest that 'Transgender' is used as a trope to demonstrate gender in a
framework of performance. This confines gender to an economy of desire and embraces but
displaces a Transgendered subjectivity |
| Name: |
Drs. Arie van der Ven, Gender Identity Support Services for Transgenders,
Beacon Hill Multicultural Psychological Association, Boston MA |
| Email: |
Vanderven@aol.com |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
A Visual Model for Transgenderism as a Process of Self-discovery |
| Abstract: |
The growing diversity in the transgender community prompted GISST to
produce a visualization of a dynamic and multi-dimensional model of transgenderism. this
model has been successfully used as a psycho-educational tool, for (self) assessment,
planning and decision taking, both in individual and group therapy settings. The model
visualizes the interaction between 5 individual dimensions of transgenderism
(self-labeling, self-presentation, gender role, sexual role and body work) 3 relational
dimensions (family/significant other, TG world, Non TG world), and two situational
dimensions (personal finances and surrounding culture). The model offers the client an
opportunity to assess and evaluate his or her current position on all these dimensions,
and to develop step by step strategies for change. The model does not require the client
to self-identify as transsexual, transgenderist or cross-dresser, as these terms imply a
desirable treatment outcome. Instead the attention of the client is focused on a process
of self-discovery and incremental change with many possible outcomes. This model aims to
provide the client with a cognitive map that adds complexity and individual choice over
and beyond the choices implicit in any one dimensional male-female continuum. During the
presentation its use in individual and group therapy situations is explained. |
| Name: |
Drs. Arie van der Ven, Gender Identity Support Services for Transgenders,
Beacon Hill Multicultural Psychological Association, Boston MA |
| Email: |
Vanderven@aol.com |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
Who would You like to be in Two Years? |
| Abstract: |
Over this workshop TGs ask each other simple questions, putting the
answers together in a visual, multi-dimensional model for change in Transgenders.
This model shows us how a few personal elements of our transgenderism (self-labeling,
self-presentation, gender-role, sexual role and body work) shape our individual
transgenderism, in interaction with some relational dimensions (family/significant other,
TG world, Non TG world) and situational dimensions (personal finances and surrounding
culture). This way we get a "bigger picture" of how we stamp our own very true
brand of transgenderism on overarching, simplifying identifications as cross-dresser or
transsexual. This "bigger picture" also helps us to locate our ambivalence and
bottlenecks for change, and to make plans for the future. |
| Name: |
Dr. Borys Vornyk, Kiev Sexology Research Center |
| Email: |
vornik@un.kiev.ua |
| Tel: |
--- |
| Address: |
--- |
| Title: |
Integrative Concept of Sexual Identification Disorders
Genesis |
| Abstract: |
Proposed integrative concept of sexual identification disorders genesis
is based on studies by many scientists and own data, considering multiformity and
complexity of mechanisms of sex determination (from genetic to psychological and social).
A thorough collected data analysis served as a base for own concept, as well as a systemic
approach based not only on the directly related to sexuality concept of brain sexual
differentiation, sexual identification process and disotogeneic concept of psychosexual
orientations disorders, but also on the evolutional biological theory of sexual dimorphism
and on the etiological approaches having a valuable potential to discover logics and
mechanisms of sexual identification disorders genesis.
Ontogeneic periods from conception to sexuality formation completion served as a core for
the concept.
Unconditionally, it is impossible to exclude probable minor lesions on a genetic level or
during formation and development of a fetus and brain sexual differentiation. But they
cannot be proven having opportunities of the modern science. A genealogical analysis also
does not exclude or confirm this, since the incidence of various inherited deviations in
people with sexual identification disorders is not higher than in common population.
A certain role, as it can be seen from the study and which coincides with other authors'
opinions, could be assigned to different pathogenic influences during gestation and labor
in mothers of such patients. These influences are incapable to change physical sex
determinants that cause sex itself, but they can serve as a base of the twisted perception
by an individual of sociopsychological determinants that provide certain forms of sexual
behavior. |
| Name: |
Mrs. Hennie Visscher, LL.M, Lawyer, . Humanitas Working
GroupTranssexualism - Gender Dysphoria |
| Email: |
Gert Master & Petra Klene <kle-mast@wxs.nl> |
| Tel: |
020 523 1100
Fax: 020 622 7367 |
| Address: |
Sarphistraat 4, Postbus 71, 1000 AB Amsterdam |
| Title: |
Pros and Cons of Transsexuality Legislation in the
Netherlands |
| Abstract: |
Since 1960, when more or less lega/illegal gender-changing treatment and
operations first started, there has been a storm of protest and scandal in the medical
world about this terrible interference which God's creation and portrayal of mankind. It
was legally dubbed an 'evil act' but 'unfortunately' no criminal punishment had been
devised for it. Since gender-changing treatment had never before been considered, it never
prompted the passing of legislation. It took 20 years and three interim governmental
recommendations, ranging from extremely negative and rejective to scientifically founded
and positive to achieve the amendment which made it possible to alter the original birth
certificate. Transsexuals who want to change their sex are prohibited among other things
from reproducing and must be unmarried. Through the registered partnership arrangement
that went into force 1 January 1998, it is now possible for married transsexuals to
officially divorce and enter immediately into a registered partnership and continue nearly
all the rights and obligations of the marriage, such as pensions, parental authority over
children, etc. |
| Name: |
Jan Wickman, M.Pol.Sc, Åbo Akademi University, Department of Sociology |
| Email: |
jwickman@abo.fi |
| Tel: |
tel. +358 2 2154 571
fax. +358 2 2154 808 |
| Address: |
Gezeliusgatan 2 A, 20500 Turku, FINLAND , home: Sirkkalankatu 16 aB 24,
20500 Turku tel. +358 2 251 34 70 |
| Title: |
Cultural and Medical Discourses on Transgenderism as
Resources in Community Discourses |
| Abstract: |
The paper considers, through a case study in Finland, the potential and
willingness of transgenderists to conceptualize gender variance as a political issue.
A qualitative investigation of the discourses/debates in the Finnish transgender community
publications (pamphlets, newsletters) and a trans e-mail list supplemented with interview
material shows divided opinions and contradictory motivations. These can be seen as
connected to the relationships between community discourses on one hand and medical
discourses, which reflect the values of the majority culture, or cultural-political
discourses that criticize the dominant gender system, on the other.
Transgenderists' alliance with the majority culture and its values means acceptance of
both the gender binary and the medicalisation of transgenderism. From this point of view
transsexualism and other forms of transgenderism are categorically distinct phenomena.
Allying with the critics of the heterosexual matrix leads to questioning the gender binary
and rejecting a patient role. In this view transsexualism, transvestism, gender blending
etc. are considered variations of a wider transgender phenomenon. The two strategies
resist different forms of marginalisation, the status of a 'freak' (a social outcast) and
that of the 'sick' (a mental patient with no power over his/her destiny). |
| Name: |
Michelle Wilson, Solicitor |
| Email: |
106752.2145@compuserve.com |
| Tel: |
01483 773428 (also fax) |
| Address: |
PO Box 171, Woking, Surrey, GU22 7FY |
| Title: |
Civil Rights for Transsexuals: A Legal Overview |
| Abstract: |
to come |
| Name: |
Dr. Philip Wilson, Dept. of General Practice, University of Glasgow, and
Clare Sharp and Jackie Gregan(Scottish Needs Assessment Programme), Dr. Susan Carr
(Glasgow Centre for Family Planning and Sexual Health) |
| Email: |
gpsa18@udcf.gla.ac.uk |
| Tel: |
0141 632 6310 (surgery)
Fax: 0141 636 1180 (surgery) |
| Address: |
Dr. Philip Wilson, The Surgery, 148 Battlefield Rd, Glasgow, G42 9JT |
| Title: |
The Prevalence of Gender Dysphoria and Transsexuality
in Scotland: How Many Cases are Known to General Practitioners? |
| Abstract: |
Population estimates of the prevalence of transsexuality vary from 1 in
2,900 to 1 in 11,900 (male-to-female) and 1 in 8,300 to 1 in 30,400 (female-to-male). We
are not aware of reported data on the prevalence of gender dysphoria.
Almost all residents of Scotland are registered with a general medical practitioner (GP).
GPs have knowledge of many transsexual patients in their care, since they are generally
responsible for making referrals and for prescribing. We describe the results of a survey
of all 1073 general medical practices in Scotland requesting numbers of patients who are
transsexual or who have gender dysphoria. The response rate was 73%.
A total of 218 male-to-female patients with gender dysphoria were identified, of whom 54
(25%) were taking hormones pre-operatively, and 73 (33%) were post-operative. The
remainder were either not in treatment, or were receiving psychological therapy. Of the 55
female-to-male patients, 11 (20%) were taking hormones pre-operatively and 22 (40%) were
post-operative. The approximate population prevalence for gender dysphoria and
transsexuality derived from questionnaire responses was 1 in 18,500 for male-to-female
patients and 1 in 71,000 for female-to-male patients.
Of the 273 patients identified, 85 (31%) had become known to their GP within the preceding
12 months. This finding concurs with Dutch data suggesting that increasing numbers of
transsexual patients are becoming known to health services. |
|
