Week 11 Mon April. 4-Sun. April. 10: Trans and Queer Theory

Week 11 Mon April. 4-Sun. April. 10: Trans and Queer TheoryAttached Files:

 Halberstam (2018)Trans- A quick and quirky account.pdf Halberstam (2018)Trans- A quick and quirky account.pdf – Alternative Formats (1.065 MB)

J. Halberstam 2018, “Trans*: A quick and quirky account of gender variability” on our library online (Preface, chp. 1, chp 6)

WATCH: Paris Is Burning” film (available on Netflix and a grainy version on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmUmiLlg-GM )

*(11) Participation post response DUE Sunday 11:59pm

*(11) Participation post response DUE Sunday 11:59pmPlease respond to ALL of the following questions in full sentences, spell check, and write at LEAST 300-500 words.

While Halberstam does focus on Transfolks, they make the broader argument that trans* is a larger theoretical and methodological perspective that aims to blur the boundaries between rigid binary regimes. The reason for wanting to do this is because of the results that come from fixing the meanings of particular identities as always in opposition to each other as well as with particular value related to them. For instance, they want to undo the social hierarchy between masculine and feminine, black and white, rich and poor. They believe that these identity markers have actually become prison-like for many folks (think of toxic masculinity as one prominent example) while corresponding to social privilege/oppression. Thus, if we realize that we do not have to continue to uphold the various boxes that have been constructed for/by us throughout history (imperialist white supremacist capitalist history), we can open possibilities to liberate ourselves from race, class, and gender oppression. That is what Trans* as thought by Halberstam might offer us.

Now, here are some questions: What is so important about names, naming, and the meanings that names convey according to Halberstam? Why might this be a good place for political organizing? How is naming (think identity names) tied to the production of knowledge generally as well as about a group of people? How is the act of naming related to power? What happens when you cannot name yourself?

For chapter 6, how does Halberstam define Trans* Feminism? Why does Halberstam argue against TERF or anti-trans* activism? What do you think about Halberstam’s argument for inclusivity?

How do folks in the documentary film, “Paris is Burning” create community and resist the oppression at the meeting points of race, class, gender and sexuality? Provide a short example from the film to support your explanation. Please provide your reactions to the film in a sentence or two.