Audio from the launch of Trans Past, Trans Present: Making Trans Histories held at Te Papa, Wellington on 17 November 2019. You can learn more about the project and view the taonga by clicking here. A special thank you to the organisers and participants for allowing this event to be recorded and shared.
Summary
At the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, an event titled "Launch of Trans Past, Trans Present: Making Trans Histories" took place. The recording from this event, held on November 17th, 2019, features the voices of Kay'la Riarn, Rangimoana Taylor, and Will Hansen. It captures an exploration of the experiences and history of the transgender community in Aotearoa New Zealand during the 2010s. The recording lasts 25 minutes and provides insights into the struggles, advocacy, and evolution of transgender rights and recognition.
The attendees and speakers acknowledged the arduous journey of older generations who championed legal recognition and rights for the transgender community. Highlighted was the importance of being accepted for one's true self, without outside imposition or judgement. The event emphasized the value of respecting the fight and lived experience of each person, the continuum of struggles, and the necessity for ongoing support and solidarity.
One speaker fondly reflected on the past activism that had paved the way for current and future generations. They shared personal recollections of police raids, arrests, and demonstrations, displaying resilience and humor through these trials. This resilience was encouraged among the younger attendees as well, recognizing that each individual's journey contributes to a collective history.
Will Hansen, who was contracted by Te Papa to work on a project celebrating transgender histories, expressed deep gratitude to all the contributors who made the project successful. Emphasizing the value of recording, preserving, and sharing these stories, Hansen acknowledged the support and efforts of various individuals and organizations. The speaker shared the significance of Te Papa as a place of memories from childhood and the fulfillment of working with the museum on projects meaningful to the transgender community.
The event also recognized the challenges faced by the transgender community, both historically and in contemporary society. Speakers confronted the hostilities encountered from groups aiming to erase transgender identities. Despite these challenges, the emphasis was on the enduring and unfaltering presence of the transgender community and its histories, with the affirmation that these stories will continue to be shared and treasured for generations to come.
Additionally, the complexities of transgender identities were discussed, with the understanding that every person's experience is unique and that terminology, self-identification, and attitudes towards gender can vary widely within the community. It was urged that everyone should embrace diversity with open hearts and minds.
This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.
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