ACLU-VA's “Celebrating Trans Joy: Building Communities” - Virginia's first-ever trans joy zine

About This Project

Summary

To counter anti-trans hate, the ACLU-VA brought trans & nonbinary people together with queer, BIPOC illustrators to tell their stories in a 100+ page zine. We trained our storytellers & artists in a storytelling academy, launched the zine with 4 events across the state, partnering with local orgs, supporting queer-owned businesses & performers, & engaging trans & nonbinary families. We extended the zine’s reach with digital ads to combat news of attacks on trans rights with stories of joy & hope

Goals & Objectives

Our goal was to change the narrative about trans & nonbinary people amidst escalating anti-trans attacks. Our storytelling academy’s goal was to give them the tools to share their OWN stories. Our events’ goal was to bring the trans community together & raise awareness among allies.

Results & Impact

350+ trans & nonbinary people in both urban & rural VA attended our events. We have distributed 5,000+ zines at Pride events & directly to teachers, counselors, librarians, support groups & trans & nonbinary young people & their loved ones. The zine has been entered into the official state archive.