Help students develop not only understanding, but acceptance of and compassion for their fellow human beings by exploring the definition of transgender and the experiences of transgender people.
Anchor Text
Andrews, A. (2014). Some assembly required: The not-so-secret life of a transgender teen. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.
Supporting Texts
In this TED Talk, TED Resident and digital storyteller Jackson Bird provides viewers with “a starter pack of trans knowledge.” He highlights some of the prevalent reactions and misconceptions that he and many other transgender people face and provides an etiquette guide of sorts by addressing gender-affirming surgeries, the issue with pronouns, and the public bathroom debate. A short, engaging introduction to some common transgender issues.
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Bird, J. (2017, June). Jackson Bird: How to talk (and listen) to transgender people [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.ted.com/talks/jackson_bird_how_to_talk_and_listen_to_transgender_people#t-371759
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American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Answers to your questions about transgender people, gender identity, and gender expression. Retrieved from http://www.apa.org/topics/lgbt/transgender.aspx
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Presented as a series of collapsible questions and answers, this website from the American Psychological Association is a resource for understanding the term ‘transgender.’ Questions address topics like the relationship between gender identity and sexual orientation, the numerous identities “under the transgender umbrella,” and the discrimination that transgender people face. There are also suggestions for ways that one can support transgender people and resources for further learning. Ideal informational text for a jigsaw activity or other peer-supported learning activity.
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“Transparent” is a celebrated portrait series by photographer and author Demetrius Fordham. Intended “to highlight and celebrate the diversity within this community and help spread understanding,” Demetrius presents striking black and white portraits of transgender individuals from across America alongside their voices and stories. A thought-provoking visual look at the many manifestations of transgender and the related intersectionality of gender identity with other identities (i.e. parent, person of color).
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Fordham, D. (n.d.). Transparent: A portrait series. Retrieved from https://www.demetriusfordham.com/transparent/
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Fort, P. (2017, November 7). Election of transgender lawmaker in Virginia makes history. NPR. Retrieved from https://www.npr.org/2017/11/07/562679573/election-of-transgender-lawmaker-in-virginia-makes-history
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This news article from NPR covers the recent triumph of Danica Roem, a transgender woman who has been elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. The win is noteworthy as Roem is the first transgender person to be elected to a state legislature in the United States. A specific, high-profile example of discrimination (albeit overcome) that illustrates the pervasiveness of transgender issues and bias and the effects that such prejudice can have.
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Actor Andrew Garfield plays the role of a young person struggling with gender identity in the music video for “We Exist” by indie rock band Arcade Fire. Powerful visuals and simple yet haunting lyrics capture and maintain attention and supply a substantial amount of material for a teacher-led unraveling activity or discussion.
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Arcade Fire [ArcadeFireVEVO]. (2014, May 16). We exist [Video file]. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/hRXc_-c_9Xc
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