2022 Gender Spectrum Family Conference: Full Schedule

8:45am PDT

Day One Settling In

Speakers

Yarrow Halpern

Manager of Online Programs, Gender Spectrum

Yarrow Halpern, BA, (who uses they/them pronouns) began their role at Gender Spectrum in June 2019. They graduated with Honors from Mills College with a BA in International Relations and a double Minor in African Diaspora Studies & Spanish. English was their second language, and... Read More →

Gender Spectrum

Saturday October 1, 2022 8:45am - 9:15am PDT
TBA

9:15am PDT

Conference Opening

Evaluation

Speakers

Yarrow Halpern

Manager of Online Programs, Gender Spectrum

Gender Spectrum

Saturday October 1, 2022 9:15am - 9:30am PDT
TBA

9:30am PDT

Opening Keynote

Evaluation

Sharing anecdotes from his childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, Cyrus will speak about his experience with gender transition in the context of family life. Discussing both the challenges and the joys of navigating transition in long-term relationships, Cyrus will offer his perspective on transition's capacity to transform and heal family systems. Situating his story within the larger context of trans politics, and the increased policing of trans children and families, he will highlight the unique role that parents and care-givers play in the larger struggle for trans rights, recognition, and collective liberation.

Speakers

Cyrus Dunham

Cyrus Dunham's writing on trans life, politics, and art has appeared in publications including The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Intercept, and Granta, among many others. He has reported widely on the impact of incarceration on trans and gender-nonconfomring people, participating... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 9:30am - 10:15am PDT
TBA

10:30am PDT

Beyond The Transgender Child: A Roundtable Discussion about Mental Health Concerns in Children and Teens

Evaluation

THIS SESSION WAS NOT RECORDED

Parents of non-binary and transgender children and teens frequently find that besides learning to understand and support their child's gender congruence, they are faced with questions about their children's mental health needs. Such conditions may include anxiety and depression (made all the worse by Covid-era isolation), as well as OCD, self-harm, substance use, suicidal ideation, disordered eating, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. In this workshop, we will discuss common co-occurring conditions, answer questions about how to begin to address these issues and find knowledgeable practitioners as well as advocate for your child's mental health needs. We will also provide space for parental voices and discussion.

Speakers

Rachel Pepper, LMFT

Rachel Pepper is the co-author of The Transgender Child: A Handbook for Parents and Professionals, which has just been published in a revised, expanded second edition, as well as editor of Transitions of the Heart: Stories of Love, Struggle and Acceptance by Mothers of Transgender... Read More →

Dr Kellen Grayson, PsyD

Dr Kellen Grayson is a psychologist who is currently the Clinical Director of the Bay Area based Pathways to Wellness, and Clinical Director of the Golden Gate Integral Counseling Center in San Francisco. His clinical specialties include trauma recovery and personality disorders... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am PDT
TBA

10:30am PDT

Getting It Covered: Navigating Insurance

Evaluation

Most transgender/non-binary folks and their families face many roadblocks as they move through transition. This is especially true when dealing with the health care system and the often daunting insurance plans. Denials are commonplace many trans folks and families don’t understand their rights. Finding the right provider can be troubling. In this session we will help 1 participates navigate the complexes of insurance coverage and medical transition. TransFamily Support Services has assisted hundreds of families to get their insurance to cover the medically necessary treatments, we will share our tools and tricks!

Speakers

Kathie Moehlig

Executive Director, TransFamily Support Services

Kathie Moehlig is the Executive Director of TransFamily SupportServices, and a leading professional on supporting transgender/non-binary youth andtheir families. A tireless advocate for the LGBTQ community, she was named “Woman ofthe Year” by California Assemblyperson Todd Gloria... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

10:30am PDT

Understanding the Exploration of Identity

Evaluation

This workshop goes through the nature of identity so as to transparently look within yourself, action items on how to navigate roadblocks in discovering yourself, and conflict management with presenting your true identity. Lilith Rose shares her own story of struggling with her own identity which led to her coming out as transgender and losing a large portion of her family, friends, and career opportunities. They will take you through practical actions you can take on a daily basis to instill a sense of pride and confidence in your authentic self.

ZOOM RECORDING: >> Click Here <<
PASSCODE: SA!C9sgV

Speakers

Lilith Rose

Executive Director, PFLAG San Francisco

After barely surviving a harrowing mental health crisis as a teenager, Lilith Rose (they/she), realized just how little effective advocacy was being done for youth in similar situations. They began communicating openly about their experiences and the actions they were taking to overcome... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

10:30am PDT

You Know, Sex: How We Can Talk about Sexuality, Bodies, and More with Kids Around Puberty

Evaluation

THIS SESSION WILL NOT BE RECORDED

Traditional sex education not only reinforces gender and sex binaries, it over determines what sexuality and relationships mean to young people. It is possible to do this differently, to offer sex education in a way that meets kids where they are at, and doesn’t tell them where they are heading.

In this session, award-winning sex educator and author Cory Silverberg will read from their newest book, You Know, Sex and offer ideas on how to respond to the questions we get, the ones we don’t, and how parents can take care of themselves in the process. There will be lots of time for Q & A, to discuss everything from consent and disclosure to pornography and power to reproduction and relationships, and more.

Speakers

Cory Silverberg

Raised in the 1970s by a children’s librarian and a sex therapist, Cory grew up to be a sex educator, author, and queer person who smiles a lot when they talk. Cory teaches and talks with young people, adults, and professionals across North America about gender, sexuality, disability... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am PDT
TBA

Level Beginner

12:00pm PDT

Self Care 1.1 Yoga

Evaluation

Speakers

KJ Ward

Saturday October 1, 2022 12:00pm - 12:45pm PDT
TBA

12:00pm PDT

Self Care 1.2 Heart-focused Meditation

Evaluation

Join this self-care session for a guided meditation where we will resource ourselves by cultivating the heart qualities of gratitude, lovingkindness and compassion, as a way to build our capacity to meet this moment and the challenges of our lives and lived experience.

Speakers

René Rivera

René Rivera is a meditation teacher, restorative justice facilitator, and leader, working and learning in all the spaces in-between race, gender, and other perceived binaries, as a queer, mixed-race, trans man. René teaches heart-centered, trauma-informed meditation, at the East... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 12:00pm - 12:45pm PDT
TBA

12:00pm PDT

Self Care 1.3 Embodied Self-Care

Evaluation

THIS SESSION WAS NOT RECORDED

Take a moment to care for yourself. Join embodiment educator, Aiano Nakagwa, for an introductory workshop exploring embodied self-care, self-care outside of capitalism, and the power of slowing down and tuning in. This workshop offers experiential, accessible, and practical body-based movement prompts that nourish our capacity to show up, be present, and live authentically. Explore how movement supports us in (re) establishing pathways and access to our body's deepest wisdom. No dance experience necessary. All bodies welcome.

Speakers

Aiano Nakagawa (they/she)

Aiano Nakagawa is a queer, non-binary educator, artist, and maker. They aim to support people in the process of uncovering the ways in which dominant systems of power manifest in the body while aiding in the recovery of one's innate, body-based wisdom and power. They teach both movement-based... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 12:00pm - 12:45pm PDT
TBA

1:00pm PDT

Imi (“I’m me!”) and other Non-Crisis Digital Support Resources for LGBTQ+ Youth

Evaluation

LGBTQ+ youth have disproportionately high unmet mental health needs when compared to their cisgender and heterosexual counterparts, and yet there is a dearth of non-crisis support resources designed specifically for and with them. Even when available, they may be inaccessible to teens due to negative consequences of being outed. That’s why CenterLink and the It Gets Better Project have collaborated with Hopelab to develop another tool, imi. It’s a science-backed mental health webapp offering interactive modules to learn coping skills, hear stories from members of their community, and explore resources designed to affirm LGBTQ+ identities and boost mental health. Each of these products have been co-created in collaboration with the LGBTQ+ youth community to help them cope with minority stressors on a regular basis. Join us to learn all about it.

Speakers

Justin Tindall

Justin has spent the past decade building a career around empowering LGBTQ+ youth. They joined the It Gets Better Project in 2014. With a Master’s of Public Health (MPH) in Global Health Promotion in hand and as a former educator, Justin expanded the organization’s Global Affiliate... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

1:00pm PDT

Influencia del Apoyo Familiar en la Autoestima de Nuestres Hijes Trans (Influence of Family Support on Self-esteem of our Trans children.)

Evaluation

THIS WORKSHOP WILL BE IN SPANISH WITH INTERPRETATION IN ENGLISH

ESTE TALLER SERÁ EN ESPAÑOL CON INTERPRETACIÓN AL INGLÉS

Workshop:
In this workshop, families are going to recognize the benefits of family support for the self-esteem of our trans children. We will talk about some of the causes of self-esteem problems and we will offer some suggestions on how families can help strengthen our children's self-esteem.

Taller
En este taller las familias vamos a reconocer los beneficios del apoyo familiar para la autoestima de nuestres hijes trans. Conversaremos sobre algunas de las causas de los problemas de autoestima y brindaremos algunas sugerencias de como las familias podemos ayudar a fortalecer la autoestima de nuestres hijes.

Speakers

Alexander Gonzalez

Community Educator, Somos Familia

Alexander (el) es un hombre trans originario de México. Se graduó dela Universidad de California Berkeley con una licenciatura en artes. Además es un educador comunitario de Somos Familia y organizador comunitario por más de 15 años.También es uno de los fundadores de Grupo... Read More →

Mónica Rodas

Family Organizer, Somos Familia

Mi nombre es Mónica Rodas, mi pronombre ella/she/her. Soy salvadoreña de nacimiento. Licenciada en Educación para la Salud con especialidad en en Salud Sexual. Trabajo como organizadora de Familias en Somos Familia. Soy una madre orgullosa de tres hijes, une que pertenece a... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Level Intermediate
Language Spanish

1:00pm PDT

Intro to Non-binary Identities

Evaluation

Non-binary identities are often assumed and portrayed as being narrow and suiting one narrative: androgynous, thin, and white. However, this misconception misses how diverse this identity is and what being non-binary can actually look like, such as some non-binary folks being feminine or masculine, using hormone replacement therapy, or using pronouns other than they/them.

An Introduction to Non-binary Identities will serve as a hybrid panel discussion to introduce parents and families to what non-binary means before having a Q&A panel with non-binary individuals who have taken different paths on their gender journeys. The intended outcome is for our attendees to leave with a greater understanding of non-binary identities and how to help their children feel supported. Before the panel Q&A, we will briefly cover the gender spectrum model, identity terms and pronouns, gender euphoria for non-binary folks, and tips on how to best support non-binary youth. At the end, we will share further resources for education and finding support.

Moderators

Yarrow Halpern

Manager of Online Programs, Gender Spectrum

Speakers

Gabby Fernandez

Gender Spectrum

Ryse Tottingham

Kaidyn Radford

Digital and Social Media Manager, Gender Spectrum

Kaidyn Radford (he/they) is the Digital and Social Media Manager at Gender Spectrum, a national nonprofit supporting gender expansive youth and their surrounding support systems. Kaidyn oversees all of the things posted on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter for Gender Spectrum... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

1:00pm PDT

Loving Our Trans Bodies - Non-Surgical Congruence Measures

Evaluation

For trans folks there can be a number of ways in which we can experience transition. Hormones and surgeries are wonderful options for many, though may not be accessible or even of interest to all trans folks. Join us for a space to discuss the many ways to have trans bodies and how to explore gender euphoria in all of them, from products that support gender confirmation, to resources for appreciating our trans bodies.

Speakers

Andy Duran

Educational Outreach Manager, Good Vibrations

Andy Duran is a fat, Blaxican, queer/trans activist and sexual health & wellness educator from Oakland CA. He is the Education Director for Good Vibrations and has been providing accurate and accessible sex information for nearly 20 years. Outside of work, Andy can often be found... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

1:00pm PDT

Making Gender Related Research Understandable: Critical Knowledge for Caregivers

Evaluation

Parents and other caring adults are often called to defend the rationale for respecting the rights of transgender and nonbinary children and teens. In settings ranging from social media to courts, contradictory information is cited related to transgender and nonbinary youth. It can be challenging to assess the validity of these claims, some of which have implications harmful to young people. This session will help participants assess, understand and respond to some of the most often-cited research used to block gender-inclusive initiatives such as so- called “rapid-onset gender dysphoria” and “desistance.” In addition, research on the positive impact of support from parents/caregivers, educators and other professionals, and peers will be highlighted. Come with questions and be ready to leave with some widely understandable research-based answers!

Speakers

Kim Westheimer

Director Research, Policy and Practice, Gender Spectrum

Kim Westheimer is the Director of Research, Policy and Practice for Gender Spectrum where she leads programming related to partnerships and research. Gender has been a recurring thread in her work: whether encouraging students to examine their own gender stories or developing systemic... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

1:00pm PDT

Top Surgery Info Session - Removal/Reduction

Evaluation

THIS SESSION WAS NOT RECORDED

Join us for an informational session on top surgery, removal and reduction options. Dr. Mosser will talk about quite a few aspects of masculinizing top surgery which is often called transgender mastectomy surgery. He will talk about patient goals and priorities, anatomic variations, and the choices that patients need to make in order to pick a surgery that matches their goals and bodies as well as possible. This will also include options for non-binary patients and anyone interested in top surgery. He will also talk about challenges for patients and their families who are seeking top surgery, such as the insurance approval process, and what aspects of the journey toward surgery are difficult for adolescents.

Speakers

Dr. Mosser

Scott W. Mosser, MD FACS is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon at the Gender Confirmation Center in San Francisco, CA. Working alongside Gender Surgeons Dr. Alex Facque and Dr. Ellie Ley, Dr. Mosser specializes in gender affirming top surgery and body contouring for the transgender... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

2:30pm PDT

'Are You OK?' - Documenting the Survival and Joy of Trans Youth Across America

Evaluation

Award-winning queer/trans identified photographer and author Jesse Freidin will present portraits and interviews from his national series 'Are You Ok?' which documents trans and nonbinary youth's reaction to anti-trans legislation across the country. Participants will learn how to create safe and affirming dialogues with their trans children around these difficult issues, while helping them see the power and activism of their own personal experiences. Through creativity, trans people and our allies can speak out and become our own saviors. This workshop will give you the tools to do just that.

Speakers

Jesse Freidin (he/him)

owner, Jesse Freidin Photographer

Jesse Freidin is an award-winning queer/trans identified professional photographer and author. His current series entitled “Are You OK?” addresses the dangers of the current wave of anti-trans legislation sweeping the country in a passionate attempt to erase stigma and elevate... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

2:30pm PDT

Being a Black Family Inside the Rainbow

Evaluation

THIS SESSION WAS NOT RECORDED

Gender minority children are present in every corner of the world. Their lived experiences will vary depending on the social construct in which they find themselves. Black families have increasingly accepted their gender minority children, but continue to face very real social, religious, and cultural resistance to full acceptance. The purpose of this workshop is to center Black families as we probe the myriad successes and challenges that Black families may experience along the journey of launching our wonderful gender minority children into safe, productive, and happy lives.

Speakers

Keisha Michaels (she/her)

Mom to a trans kiddo.

Stephen Chukumba

Agile Program Lead, Capital One

Saturday October 1, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

2:30pm PDT

Gender Affirming Surgery Decisions - Highlighting Patient, Parent, and Surgeon Perspectives

Evaluation

Making decisions about gender affirming surgery can feel exciting, overwhelming, scary and a multitude of other emotions all at the same time. In this session we’ll hear from a patient who had top surgery, a parent who has supported their child through surgery and surgeon Dr. Facque from The Gender Confirmation Center. We will touch on questions such as…How do you know surgery is the right decision? How as a parent/caregiver can I best support my child? What is recovery like? How do I prepare myself and my child? And so much more. Audience questions are encouraged!

Speakers

Jenna Redmond

Jenna Redmond is the Director of Family Educational Programming at Gender Spectrum and has been involved with the organization since 2014. They are non-binary, queer, and a parent to an energetic 4 year old. Jenna is passionate about social justice and creating online spaces and resources... Read More →

Dr. Alexander Facque M.D

Alexander R. Facque, M.D (he/him) is a board certified plastic surgeon with the Gender Confirmation Center of San Francisco, working alongside Dr. Ley and Dr. Mosser in providing excellent patient care and service to the transgender, gender diverse and non-binary community. He is... Read More →

Lynn Whitman

Lynn Whitman lives and works in Prescott Arizona with her husband and transgender teenager son. They recently took the trip to San Francisco for top surgery and are finding recovery to be a peaceful and healing process in more ways than one.

Saturday October 1, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

2:30pm PDT

Intro to Neo-Identities and Neopronouns

Evaluation

An Introduction to Neo-identities and Neopronouns” serves as an introduction to neo-identities and neopronouns. This presentation will cover basic terminology, the origins of neo-identities, and what role neo-identities and neo-pronouns play in gender creativity. We will also dive into how neo-identities and neopronouns are especially stigmatized within and outside of the LGBTQ+ community, and how you can advocate for your child at school and in public. Following this, we will have a Q&A and I will provide further resources to practice using neopronouns and to learn more about neo-identities.

Speakers

Naomi Cruz

Naomi Cruz, BA (they/them) is the Manager of Family and Educational Programming at Gender Spectrum, a national nonprofit supporting gender expansive youth and their surrounding support systems. Naomi oversees all of the parent/caregiver support groups at Gender Spectrum and assists... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

2:30pm PDT

Using Gender Support Plans

Evaluation

For many caregivers and educators, even the possibility of a young person announcing a change in their gender status at school seems overwhelming if not impossible. However, some transgender students are taking this courageous step and successfully doing so while remaining enrolled in their educational institution. What are the key elements of a positive experience? What preparation, training and conditions need to be considered as students and their families make the difficult decision to support a child's authentic gender in the classroom? After exploring key principles that must be considered when a student shares their gender with their school community, the session will present specific tools and resources for supporting a student to safely and successfully do so.

Speakers

Carla Pena

Director of Training, Professional Development, Gender Spectrum

Carla Peña is a queer, non-binary writer, educator, and activist. Committed to equity andsocial justice, they have focused their life’s work on LGBTQ+ rights, inclusiveeducation, youth work, and community organizing.Born and raised in Queens, New York (the unceded land of theMatinecock/Munsee... Read More →

Saturday October 1, 2022 2:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

3:45pm PDT

Day One Closing

Evaluation

Speakers

Yarrow Halpern

Manager of Online Programs, Gender Spectrum

Gender Spectrum

Saturday October 1, 2022 3:45pm - 4:00pm PDT
TBA

8:45am PDT

Day Two Settling In

Evaluation

Speakers

Yarrow Halpern

Manager of Online Programs, Gender Spectrum

Gender Spectrum

Sunday October 2, 2022 8:45am - 9:15am PDT
TBA

9:15am PDT

Day Two Opening

Evaluation

Speakers

Yarrow Halpern

Manager of Online Programs, Gender Spectrum

Gender Spectrum

Sunday October 2, 2022 9:15am - 9:30am PDT
TBA

9:45am PDT

BIPOC Families in Transition: Aligning the Heart and the Head

Evaluation

Families are a child's first introduction to the world. The BIPOC experience adds nuanced factors that add much joy and group affiliation. When a child begins a gender journey they take that family along with them. BIPOC families desire to celebrate their children and deserve the space and tools to participate in the fullness of that experience. If you are feeling overwhelmed in the transition, this course offers an island of hope that you are not alone. Come learn about this transition and adopt tools to add your unique cultural experience to the process.

Speakers

L. Frances Brown (she/her)

L.Frances Brown, MEd contends the intersectionality of her life experiences include Black Woman; Parent of a Trans Adult; Graduate of a Historically Black College and University; Registered Voter and School Psychologist formerly assigned to an urban school district. My career in... Read More →

Dr. Kimberly H. Lemite (she/her)

Dr. Kimberly H. Lemite, NCSP started as an elementary school teacher in NYC and Long Island NY. She graduated from Teachers College, Columbia University earning a PhD in School Psychology. She has worked in Henrico County Public schools and Chesterfield County Public Schools for... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

9:45am PDT

Fostering Resilience in Times of Uncertainty

Evaluation

Fostering Resilience in Times of Uncertainty is a workshop for caregivers who want to explore new ways of supporting their gender expansive youth in a safe and supportive environment. Learn what it means for you to embrace and advocate for your youth's gender fluidity in hostile environments, without losing track of yourself and your needs.

Through a mix of structured and unstructured activities, participants will be supported in exploring a wide range of themes with one another, including: parenting, gender, queerness, vulnerability, boundaries, codependence, life transitions, body liberation, chronic illness, intersectionality, anti-racism, and more.

Speakers

Laura Grossman, LMFT

Laura Grossman Therapy

Laura Grossman, LMFT (she/her/hers) is a white queer therapist in California, on unceded Ohlone land. She specializes in somatic therapy for queer and trans adults.Laura has a Master's degree in Counseling as well as in-depth training in Somatic Experiencing. She openly shares, however... Read More →

Lakia Wolfarth-Davis, LMFT

Lakia Wolfarth-Davis, LMFT (they/she) is a Black/African American queer therapist in California, on unceded Ohlone land. Born and raised in the Bay Area, they specialize in LGBT-affirmative therapy for queer and trans youth/adults.Lakia has a Master's degree in Marriage and Family... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

9:45am PDT

Introduction to the Neurodiversity Paradigm and Neuroqueer Theory

Evaluation

Given the high prevalence of ADHD and Autism within the LGBTQ+ population, there is a need to understand how these identities intersect. This workshop will provide participants with an introduction to the neurodiversity paradigm and neuroqueer theory. By providing an alternative to the medical model of understanding ADHD and Autism, this workshop will provide an avenue for considering ADHD and autism as social identities which can be positively integrated into a person’s identity. This workshop will review practices families can incorporate to affirm the integration of neuroqueer identities. Furthermore, this workshop will highlight particular stressors neuroqueer children and youth experience and provide strategies for supporting common issues such as: sensory sensitivities, alexithymia and interoception issues.

Speakers

Rebecca Minor (she/her)

Parent Coach, Clinician, Consultant, Gender Specialist, LLC

Rebecca Minor, MSW, LICSW is a queer, Jewish consultant and clinician specializing in theintersection of trauma, gender, and sexuality. As a Gender Specialist, Rebecca partners withtrans and gender-nonconforming youth through their journey of becoming, and is a guide totheir parents... Read More →

Dr. Megan Anna Neff (she/they)

Neurodivergent Insights

Dr. Megan Anna Neff is currently a psychology resident in private practice where theyspecializes in working with neurodivergent adults and provides neurodivergent affirmingassessments. They are a parent to two neurodivergent children and in an inter-neuropartnership. They are a late... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

9:45am PDT

Navigating a Gender Clinic

Evaluation

This session will cover the following topics:
1) How do you navigate a gender clinic? What is a gender clinic? At what age can you access it and what services are available?
2) Learn about some of the options for gender affirming care such as blockers and hormones.
3) Guidance around gender affirming products and techniques such as: binding, packing, tucking and more.

Speakers

Lurie Children's Hospital

Adam Davies (they/them)

Adam Davies (they/them) is a Youth Engagement Coordinator at Lurie Children's Hospital. They work with a cohort of high school youth who focus on HIV prevention, sex education and mental wellness and teach sex education in Gender and Sexuality Alliances in Chicago Public Schools... Read More →

Jax Whitehead (they/them)

Faculty, Pediatric Endocrinology

Jax Whitehead (they/them) is a Pediatric Endocrinologist at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and an Assistant Professor of Endocrinology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. As part of the transgender community, Dr. Whitehead is passionate... Read More →

Logan Pierce (he/him)

Logan Pierce is a Lead Facilitator and Program Coordinator at Lurie Children's Hospital. Logan has 3+ years teaching sexual health education, facilitating gender inclusivity trainings, co-producing Lurie Children's Never Fear Talks, and leading multiple groups for transgender, non-binary... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

9:45am PDT

Supporting Body Liberation in Trans Youth

Evaluation

Transgender and non-binary youth are navigating minority stress, diet culture, political assaults on their identity, and gender dysphoria, all of which can have destructive effects on their body image. This session will introduce strategies caregivers and supportive adults can use to create spaces where trans* youth can rest in body neutrality, and perhaps strive to feel at home and safe in their bodies.

Speakers

Vaughn Darst

All Gender Nutrition

Vaughn Darst is a Registered Dietitian who specializes in treating eating disorders in under-served communities, including transgender and nonbinary individuals, large bodied individuals, and neurodivergent communities. Vaughn received his MS in Nutrition from USC, and his BA in Critical... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
TBA

11:15am PDT

Advocacy for Your Child/Teen in Community Sports and After-school Activities

Evaluation

Speakers

Kenrick Ross

Kenrick Ross has been Executive Director of NQAPIA since February 2021. Over the past 15 years, he has held senior management roles in sectors as diverse as education, community health, civic engagement, and equitable entrepreneurship. He previously served as Executive Director of... Read More →

Casey Pick (she/her)

Casey Pick (she/her) is the Senior Fellow for Advocacy and Government Affairs for The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ young people. She works to advance state and federal policies that support LGBTQ youth in crisis... Read More →

Giovonni Santiago (he/him)

Giovonni Santiago (he/him), is a transgender advocate, military veteran and founder of META Center Inc, a non-profit dedicated to educating, motivating and inspiring transgender youth and young adults in need of resources and support. Being able to assist youth and young adults through... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

11:15am PDT

Belief and Belonging: Faith and Transgender Inclusion

Evaluation

This panel will explore faith communities and transgender inclusion. Panelists of different religious communities will discuss their experiences of embracing their trans and religious identities along with suggestions for families struggling with reconciling trans identity with their beliefs. This panel will also explore recommendations for increasing trans inclusion within faith communities.

Speakers

Ella Baker

Ella Baker is a Korean-American transgender activist and educator. She is the founding director of Pathways Early College Academy and her work has appeared in Autostraddle and The Toast. She is an active Episcopalian and helped launch the first Trans Day of Remembrance service at... Read More →

Rev. Nicole Garcia

Faith Work Director, National LGBTQ Task Force

Nicole M. Garcia (she/her) identifies as a queer transgender Latina. Nicole earned a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from CU Denver and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Colorado. Nicole earned a Master of Divinity from Luther Seminary in St. Paul MN and... Read More →

Sorrel Hester (they/them)

Candler School of Theology at Emory University

Sorrel Virginia Hester (they/them) is a nonbinary Panamanian-American poet and student living in the U.S. American South. Sorrel is a Christian undergoing denominational transition and is currently attending Candler School of Theology to pursue their Master of Divinity with a focus... Read More →

Rabbi Micah Buck Yael

Director of Education & Training, Keshet

Rabbi Micah Buck-Yael (he/they) is Keshet's Director of Education & Training, where he supports organizations across the spectrum of Jewish life to build communities in which LGBTQ+ Jews and our families can thrive. Prior to his work with Keshet, Micah served as Coordinator of Community... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

11:15am PDT

Bottom Surgery - Phalloplasty Info Session

Evaluation

THIS SESSION WAS NOT RECORDED

This presentation will cover the surgical journey of a young patient as they navigate towards the goal of aligning their bodies with their identity in the form of phalloplasty. It informs the patient and family/allies through various phases from online research, picking the right surgical team, preparing for the consultation as well as a description of the specific surgical approach that Dr. Ley performs. This is followed by a detailed description of the surgical procedure and an extensive dive into post operative care and long term expectations.

Speakers

Ellie Zara Ley

Surgeon, Gender Confirmation Center

Ellie Zara Ley, MD completed her general surgery residency at the University of Arizona before pursuing a career in plastic surgery. She then completed a fellowship in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the University of Utah. Dr. Ley also completed fellowships in craniofacial... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

11:15am PDT

Gaining Knowledge and Understanding To Best Support Your Teen

Evaluation

This workshop is for parents to gain a better understanding of diversity in gender identity vs misinformation in society that leads to pathologizing their teen Presenters will address affirmative parenting strategies and how to be more effective in communicating with their teen. Parents will also have a better understanding of their teen's transitioning process and will gain tips to strengthen communication and support of their teen. As parents and families are transitioning as well, they will learn about strategies to reduce their own isolation gain support and learn about advocacy

Speakers

Lisa Arieta Hayes Ed.D., LCSW

Practice Specialist, Kaiser

Lisa Arieta Hayes Ed.D., LCSW is a gender specialist at Kaiser Permanente Child Psychiatry inSan Jose. Dr Hayes has extensive experience in working with LGBTQ children and teens. DrHayes created specialized gender services at San Jose including the formation of the Teen andParent... Read More →

Santiago Alvarez (he/him)

Santiago Alvarez, LCSW, is a gender therapist who has worked with children, youth, and families at Kaiser Permanente for the past 8 years. Santiago has maintained a private practice with teens and adults, including LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC consumers, for the past 20+ years, and he has... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

Level Intermediate
Language English

11:15am PDT

Intro to Gender Dysphoria

Evaluation

Join us for a presentation and panel conversation with gender expansive young adults on the basics of gender dysphoria. We will be covering topics such as: what is gender dysphoria and how does it impact transgender, non-binary and gender expansive youth? What are ways for youth themselves to navigate gender dysphoria as well as tips and advice for their parents and caregivers.

Speakers

Jenna Redmond

Nick Goulet (he/him)

Nick Goulet (he/him) is a graduate from The University of Texas at Austin's Womens and Gender Studies program with a certificate in LGBTQ Studies. He lives in Portland, Oregon with his partner, Charlie, his rescue pit bull, Diesel, and his ball python, Luna. Nick works in healthcare... Read More →

Milo Stewart

Milo Stewart brings their experiences as a nonbinary trans person to their endeavors as an educator and storyteller on trans and queer issues. They first came out publicly as nonbinary at age 14 on their YouTube channel, which is still their outlet for sharing their experiences as... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

Level Beginner
Language English

11:15am PDT

Pink & Blue: Traversing the Joys and Sorrows of Living in a Gendered World

Evaluation

Pink & Blue is a short film directed by AfroFil Am Non-Binary Queer filmmaker Carmen LoBue (they/them) and Written & Produced by 1st Gen Nigerian Trans Genderqueer lead actor Kaydx (they/he/ẹmi), about the joys and sorrows of first-time parenting for a Trans couple of color. In the film, After a surprise first-time pregnancy, a Trans couple of color wrestles with how the new baby will affect their relationship and how to raise their child in a binary world. In this workshop we will watch the film and create an open conversation around the themes of the fim: gender as construct, community, living in a gendered society and more.

Speakers

Kaydx (they/he/ẹmi)

Founder, Dagbasi Productions

Kaydx (they/he/ẹmi) is a practitioner of collaborative solidarity who founded Dagbasi Productions on Juneteenth 2020 to actualize stories that inspire empathy and challenge social consciousness. Kaydx is a proud Trans/Genderqueer/Genderfluid/Demi-gender/Agender Spirit, self-identified... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 11:15am - 12:30pm PDT
TBA

Level Intermediate
Language English

12:45pm PDT

Self Care 2.1 Heart-focused Meditation

Evaluation

Speakers

René Rivera

Sunday October 2, 2022 12:45pm - 1:15pm PDT
TBA

12:45pm PDT

Self Care 2.2 Guided Improvisation for Advocacy, Community, and Liberation

Evaluation

THIS SESSION WAS NOT RECORDED

Speakers

Jesse Greenfield (they/them)

Community Health Worker Liaison, County of San Diego

Jesse Greenfield, MPH, CHES (they/them) is a public health communicator living in San Diego, California. They love using storytelling as an information-sharing tool to empower communities to live their fullest and healthiest lives. Jesse currently works for the County of San Diego... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 12:45pm - 1:15pm PDT
TBA

12:45pm PDT

Self Care 2.3 Breathwork to Reset the Nervous System

Evaluation

Speakers

Europa Grace (they/them)

Sunday October 2, 2022 12:45pm - 1:15pm PDT
TBA

1:30pm PDT

Closing Keynote: Dr. Ximena Lopez

Evaluation

Our Closing Keynote will feature Dr. Ximena Lopez sharing her experiences as a pediatric endocrinologist working with trans youth Texas. She will be leading a panel of Texas parents of Trans kids. They will be reflecting on what their experience has been like living in a State that is so openly opposing gender-affirming care and what it's been like for doctors as well as parents and families. They will discuss how they all maintain their focus and positivity in this challenging context. Our Closing Keynote speakers will give Conference attendees an inspiring sense of possibility in the face of challenges.

Dr. Ximena Lopez is a pediatric endocrinologist and Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

Speakers

Dr. Ximena Lopez

Associate Professor of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Growing up in Spain and Mexico, Ximena Lopez, M.D., spent a great deal of her time hospitalized for severe asthma. That experience informs her daily work as a physician.“I was impressed by the physicians who took care of me, and I have wanted to be one ever since,” she says.Dr... Read More →

Rachel & Frank Gonzales

Frank Gonzales (he/him)Rachel Gonzales (she/her)Rachel & Frank Gonzales are advocates and allies in the movement for transgender equality. As the parents of a transgender child, they fight to ensure that other parents are able to advocate for their transgender children, and that all... Read More →

Sunday October 2, 2022 1:30pm - 2:15pm PDT
TBA

2:15pm PDT

Day Two Closing

Evaluation

Speakers

Yarrow Halpern

Manager of Online Programs, Gender Spectrum

Gender Spectrum

Sunday October 2, 2022 2:15pm - 2:30pm PDT
TBA

2:45pm PDT

Community Space

Evaluation

THIS SESSION WAS NOT RECORDED

This space will allow families to connect in breakout rooms. After attending workshops, come by and process what you have learned. Build the community of support that will sustain you!

The Breakout Groups:
-Family of youth 11 and under
-Family of youth 12-15
-Family of youth 16-19
-BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color)
-Dad's
-Grandparents
-Family of non-binary youth

Speakers

Timezone 2022 Gender Spectrum Family Conference
America/Los Angeles
Filter By Date 2022 Gender Spectrum Family Conference Oct 1 - 2, 2022
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Sunday, October 2
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