This year’s celebration offers comedy, education and powerful reminders of resistance
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGES BY TRANS+ HISTORY WEEK
At a time when trans+ rights and visibility are being threatened globally, the second annual Trans+ History Week (THW) comes as a breath of fresh air. Taking place from 5-11 May, this week-long celebration provides a platform and space for trans+ people and allies to remember the incredible trailblazers of the past, and how their fight can inspire us today.
With the backdrop of the UK Supreme Court’s ruling on the definition of the term “woman”, which has already seen trans women excluded from some single-sex spaces, THW is a blazing reminder that trans people have, and will always be, a monumental part of history.
Working with QueerAF’s Launchpad Programme, this year’s THW will see a special podcast recording with Star Wars actor Abigail Thorn and Sex Education’s Anthony Lexa on 6 May. THW have also organised a special comedy fundraiser on 9 May, bringing together an all Trans+ line-up of comedians to help support the community. Around the country, keep your eyes out for a series of public installations celebrating trans+ lives and stories from throughout history. You can also learn more about this year’s THW by taking a look at their landmark Trans+ History Week Workbook which has already been downloaded by over 1,000 people.
Founder of THW Marty Davies said: “Too many conversations are still being had about us, without us and in ignorance of both our history and the issues that shape our lives today, like healthcare, housing, and safety in public space. Trans+ History Week exists to change that. By centring Trans+ stories and storytellers, we’re not just reclaiming our past, we’re building the power and visibility our community needs to shape the future.”
On 30 April, Kate Osborne MP led an Early Day Motion in Parliament recognising THW and urging other MPs to show their support for the initiative. Speaking about THW, Kate said: “Trans+ History is too often invisible or ignored […] I will do all I can to ensure our Trans+ community know that there are a significant number of politicians that will defend their rights, champion their history and the significant role they have always and will always play in our society.”
Trans+ History Day (6 May) commemorates the 92nd anniversary of the Nazi raid on the world’s first trans clinic. For more information, programme details and downloadable resources, visit wearequeeraf.com/transhistoryweek/
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