Fender Gender

Frances Thompson

In this episode, we explore the powerful and tragic story of Frances Thompson, a formerly enslaved Black woman in Memphis whose life intersected with a pivotal moment in history and issues of race, gender, and justice. Her story sheds light on the brutality of the Memphis Massacre and highlights the resilience of marginalized communities. Sources - Frances Thompson * "Frances Thompson (1840-1876)," BlackPast.org (https://blackpast.org/african-american-history/frances-thompson-1840-1876/ [https://blackpast.org/african-american-history/frances-thompson-1840-1876/]) * "HRC Honors Frances Thompson, A Black Transgender Hero," Human Rights Campaign (https://www.hrc.org/news/hrc-honors-frances-thompson-a-black-transgender-hero [https://www.hrc.org/news/hrc-honors-frances-thompson-a-black-transgender-hero])

Marsha P. Johnson

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary life and legacy of Marsha P. Johnson, a trailblazing transgender activist, drag performer, and key figure in the Stonewall uprising. We delve into her personal journey, activism, and enduring influence in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Sources - Marsha P. Johnson * "Life Story: Marsha P. Johnson," Women & the American Story, New-York Historical Society (https://wams.nyhistory.org/growth-and-turmoil/growing-tensions/marsha-p-johnson/ [https://wams.nyhistory.org/growth-and-turmoil/growing-tensions/marsha-p-johnson/]) * "Marsha P. Johnson," National Women's History Museum (https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/marsha-p-johnson [https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/marsha-p-johnson]) * "Marsha P. Johnson," Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marsha_P._Johnson [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marsha_P._Johnson])

Romaine La Prophétesse

In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Romaine La Prophétesse a gender non-conforming black revolutionary who played a pivotal role in igniting the Haitian Revolution. Despite limited historical records, their story sheds light on gender identity, resistance, and the complex history of Haiti. Sources – Romaine la Prophétesse * Terry Rey, The Priest and the Prophetess: Abbé Ouvière, Romaine Rivière, and the Revolutionary Atlantic World (Oxford University Press, 2017), esp. ch. 2 “Romaine‑la‑Prophétesse.” * “Romaine‑la‑Prophétesse,” Encyclopedia.com (summary of Rey’s work and key biographical details). * “Romaine‑la‑Prophétesse,” English Wikipedia (timeline of Romaine’s life, the 1791 uprising, control of Léogâne and Jacmel, and the 1792 attack). * “Romaine‑la‑Prophétesse,” French Wikipedia (additional context on birthplace, family, and revolutionary role). * “Romaine‑la‑Prophétesse,” Nonbinary Wiki (discussion of Romaine’s gender nonconformity, clothing, religious title, and modern trans/genderfluid interpretations). * “Romaine ‘la Prophétesse’,” Une autre histoire (French article on Romaine’s preaching, Marian visions, and blending of Catholicism with African Christianity in Trou Coffy). * Library of Congress, “Women in the Haitian Revolution” (context for women and gender‑nonconforming leaders in the Haitian Revolution). * “Transgender history,” Wikipedia (for wider context on placing Romaine within trans and gender‑nonconforming history timelines).

Roberta Cowell

Roberta Cowell was a racing driver, Spitfire pilot, and the first legally recognized trans woman in Britain. After a POW capture in WWII, a failed marriage, and depression, she transitioned with help from Michael Dillon and Sir Harold Gillies. She lived loud and public until she withdrew from the world and died nearly unknown. Roberta Cowell, Roberta Cowell's Story (Autobiography) https://legacyprojectchicago.org/person/roberta-cowell [https://legacyprojectchicago.org/person/roberta-cowell] https://www.brooklandsmuseum.com/discover/our-history/brooklands-stories/brooklands-stories-roberta-cowell/ [https://www.brooklandsmuseum.com/discover/our-history/brooklands-stories/brooklands-stories-roberta-cowell/]

Part 2 of LJ's insights: Navigating Trans Identity in Diverse Spaces

In this episode of Fender Gender, hosts Eyma and Maxine engage in a raw and insightful conversation With LJ about their experiences. They discuss the challenges and nuances of navigating different social settings, such as universities and skateboarding communities, and share personal stories of coming out and transitioning. The episode highlights the dynamics of acceptance and discrimination, aiming to foster open dialogue and understanding.