2011 Conference
Sustaining our Movement, Building for the Future
In 2008, BUTCH Voices was created to unite a cross section of Masculine of Center* womyn and trans identified people who challenge social norms. It is a movement that has its roots in gender justice. The vision was to create space that would counteract the isolation so many of us have felt on account of our gender presentation, gender identity and/or sexual orientation.
In 2009 we convened our first conference to celebrate ourselves, reflect on our past and begin the much-needed process of working together for the future. For some people, just the act of seeing other Butches, Studs, Doms, Aggressives, FtMs in shared space and in conversation was powerful. In a few cases, the event created relationships that would not have existed otherwise and for some folks, coming together again only strengthened them. On more than one occasion, we heard personal accounts from attendees about how coming to BUTCH Voices had changed their life.
In 2010 we took a chance when, as a young organization, we embarked upon a set of regional events, hoping to reach out to more people. We touched down on both coasts, and in Texas. We continued conversations about identity, working to understand and celebrate our differences, challenges we face and triumphs we honor. The response was amazing. We know that you are a part of this effort because you too sense the potential for things to happen when we come together. That potential, combined with your commitment help us continue to learn and grow, will help sustain us.
We look forward to working with you in 2011, as we prepare for our second national conference in August. We welcome your feedback as we hone our focus on developing programming in line with our three core initiatives: physical/mental health, social/economic justice and community building. We are grateful for your ideas, your participation and most importantly your presence as we continue to “Let OUR Voices Be Heard.”
We look forward to seeing you (again) in Oakland!
