Gender Diversity Awareness Week is wrapping up in Eugene over the next few days with a panel discussion, vigil, clothing swap and more.
The week kicked off with a panel discussion on medical and legal issues for transgender people. Two interactive panels on Thursday will explore the perspectives from the transgender community as well as their family and significant others. Cass Averill is one of the organizers and he runs Trans*Ponder, a support group. He says Friday marks the 17th annual Transgender Day of Remembrance. They'll be holding a candlelight vigil in downtown Eugene.
Averill: "The vigil is specifically to recognize all the Trans folks that have been murdered out of hate over the last year. And we even include murder to include those who commit suicide."
At Friday's vigil, Averill says they'll pay respects by reading the names of the deceased and discuss ways to help those who are still here. Events wrap up Saturday with a gender-inclusive clothing swap, then a dance party.
Thursday, Nov. 19: Discussion Panels
LCC Downtown Campus, 101 W. 10th Ave. Eugene - Room #303, (3rd floor)
5:30-7:00pm - Trans/Gender Diverse Panel
7:30-9:00pm - Significant Other & Family Panel
Friday, Nov. 20 - Transgender Day of Remembrance
Atrium Building, 99 W. 10th Ave., Eugene
Doors open at 6:00pm; Vigil from 6:30-8:30pm
Includes speakers, performances, name honoring, resources and light refreshments.
Saturday, Nov. 21 - Clothing Swap & Dance Party
1:00-4:00pm
The Wayward Lamb - in The Den, 150 W. Broadway, Eugene
Gender-inclusive clothing swap with donations accepted but not required and private dressing rooms to update your wardrobe.
DANCE PARTY! 5:00-8:00pm Saturday, also at The Wayward Lamb in The Den
DJ Jordan Trainwreck, ages 14 and up, bring ID.