“In countries descending into authoritarianism, one of the first things to go is the right to assemble.”
— Priya Parker, “The Art of Gathering”

  • Power Building/Weaving. Creating a network of our people will mean we know who and where our folks are when the inevitable harm reaches them and will be able to mobilize resources to reduce or avoid harm.

  • Narrative. We will begin to craft and document our narrative as the focused attacks on our communities require response from those who are most affected.

  • Mobilization. We want to make space for a broad set of Black trans identities and anchor towards our shared experiences in order to be more coordinated to mobilize.

  • Connection. We want to create an entry point for folks in community who may not have “movement homes” but represent the broad talents of Black trans experience; artists, youth, workers, etc.

 FAQs

  • We want to gather while we still can, while there is still some modicum of process that allows us to, despite identification document limitations, while we still can hold sanctuary in places and with people we know, and with safety and security in the foundation of this structure with allies who are willing to sacrifice alongside and in front of us. 

    Wellness centered, as the challenges we face have heightened negative outcomes for Black trans people, we will create a space of joy, rest, and comfort to help propel folks for the work ahead.

    • Black trans people are overly taxed; we are called to lead, with limited resources, in movements and for causes directly targeted at multiple intersections of our identities, and often under or unpaid. 

    • The focus is on individual Black trans people, who bring a whole host of connections and resources; on average the folks on the coordinating council represent 5 different organizations, coalitions, and formations. We aim to allow folks to show up in their fullest, personal capacities to lift some of the constraints of their roles.

    • We are siloed because of the demands on our experience and having connections points are critical to our collective coordination and even survival.

  • The space will be held and facilitated by seasoned allies so that all trans people will be able to participate without worry of safety/security, logistics, etc. 

    The Coordinating Council is made up of Black Trans people who believe in our collective power. They have advised on the structure and agenda of this convening and will hold the facilitators accountable to the needs of community and the outcomes set forth.

    Black Trans Family Reunion is being dreamed up by Ace Xavier Portis and is fiscally sponsored by Fortified Justice, a program of Blueprint NC, a 501c3, EIN: 27-2459538

  • Travel, transportation, lodging, and good food will be provided at no cost for all participants for the duration of programming.

  • Trained and affirming security will be provided and safety protocols will be in place.

Black Trans Family Reunion is fiscally sponsored by Fortified Justice, a program of Blueprint NC, a 501c3, EIN: 27-2459538