Today marks the kick-off of the three-day long Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference (PTHC). With more than 2,000 people expected to attend, this 11th annual gathering represents the world’s largest trans-specific conference. According to its Web site, the conference offers “workshops and activities focused on the health and well-being of transgender people, communities and allies.”
Held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, the conference boasts an expansive and diverse list of workshops and activities that serve the mind, body and soul. Topics covered include representations in the media, education on history of and pioneers for LGBTQI rights, trauma and abuse, beauty and health, experiences for people of color, youth and dating – just to name a few. Yoga, meditation, family-oriented events and prayer and worship services are among the activities offered.
The conference is free and open to the public. Be sure to keep an eye out for upcoming media coverage of PTHC. In the meantime, you can read the Philadelphia Inquirer’s piece about the city’s antidiscrimination legislation and ways to continually work to benefit and protect people who identify as transgender. The piece is written by Nurit L. Shein, executive director of health and wellness organization at the Mazzoni Center. The center focuses on Philadelphia’s LGBT community and is convening PTHC. Shein says, “As with the gay and lesbian liberation movements of earlier years, progress will come as more of us get to know one another on a personal level and learn to recognize our shared dignity and humanity.”