Scholars, activists, and artists explore the intersections of identity and geography

Over the course of three days, PNCA opened its doors for the Trans* Geographies symposium, which included keynote lectures, workshops, panel discussions, and a student-curated exhibition focusing on how race, class, and geography shape the lives of transgender individuals.

"By centering the intersection of gender identity, space, and cultural landscapes, we create a platform for powerful conversations that illuminate systemic inequities and foster solidarity," said symposium co-chair and Assistant Director of Events & Public Programs Meghann Gilligan.

The event kicked off Nov. 7 with a ceremony and activation of artist Molly Jae Vaughan's ongoing Project 42, which memorializes transgender murder victims by transforming Google Earth screenshots of locations where a trans person was murdered into garments. Community partners also tabled at the event and MFA Print Media and BFA students exhibited their work.

Vaughan delivered a keynote address, followed by a silk screen workshop focused on trans activism with opportunities to print t-shirts or posters. The symposium also included a keynote from professor and artist Sa Whitely entitled "Black Trans Geographies: Producing and Performing Black Femme Space through Affect and Artistic Practice," a walkthrough of the Trans* Geographies Student Exhibition with Curatorial Fellow Mallary Wilson and a zine-making workshop from local artist Jakelen Diaz. Willamette University Assistant Professor of Law Robin Maril facilitated the final keynote, "Fight: Queer Possibility and Democratic Defense," a panel discussion with Professor of Critical Studies and Liberal Arts Sloane McNulty.

The symposium underpinned PNCA's continued engagement with the power of arts and scholarship for social change. "Through the insights of scholars and artists, we not only advocate for trans lives but also aim to inspire a collective movement toward justice, empowering trans voices and nurturing a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences that shape our world," says Gilligan.