Queer and Transgender Resilience Wkbk

“In these times, where queer and trans people are continually the targets of violence, discrimination, and archaic public accommodation policies, it is hopeful and necessary that we focus on power and resilience. The Queer and Transgender Resilience Workbook is a useful and refreshing guide to the possibilities of restoration and transformation for queer and transgender people.”

—Holiday Simmons, MSW, social justice advocate, facilitator, public speaker, and healer

“We each have an opportunity to explore ourselves profoundly as we evolve in our lives as queer and trans people, and this workbook provides unique and engaging guidance. Enjoy exploring your resilient self!”

—Danielle Castro, MA, MFT, director of research for the Center of Excellence for Transgender Health at the University of California, San Francisco

Publisher’s Note

This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering psychological, financial, legal, or other professional services. If expert assistance or counseling is needed, the services of a competent professional should be sought.

Distributed in Canada by Raincoast Books

New Harbinger Publications, Inc.

5674 Shattuck Avenue

Oakland, CA 94609

www.newharbinger.com

Cover design by Amy Shoup

Acquired by Ryan Buresh

Edited by Kristi Hein

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Names: Singh, Anneliese A., author.

Title: The queer and transgender resilience workbook : skills for navigating sexual orientation and gender expression / Anneliese Singh, PhD, LPC.

Description: Oakland, CA : New Harbinger Publications, Inc., [2018] | Includes bibliographical references.

Identifiers: LCCN 2017058868 (print) | LCCN 2017060685 (ebook) | ISBN 9781626259478 (PDF e-book) | ISBN 9781626259485 (ePub) | ISBN 9781626259461 (pbk. : alk. paper)

Classification: LCC HQ76.25 (ebook) | LCC HQ76.25 .S566 2018 (print) | DDC 306.76--dc23

LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2017058868

For Lenny Zenith, Jeanine Grimes, Cherie Schwab, the city of New Orleans, and the country of India—you all taught me everything I needed to know about being resilient and embracing the queer and trans parts of me I was taught by society to hide.

For my beloved, Lauren Lukkarila—each step with you is a sacred unfolding that not only makes me a better person but also helps me be more of who I truly am. I love you with all of me!

For the queer and trans community of Atlanta—may we all continue to manifest the liberation movements rooted in beloved community, equity, and justice.

For all the queer and trans liberation movements around the world—our lives and histories are ancient and beautiful. May we remember our true and deepest liberation within ourselves, and with one another, more and more.Contents

Foreword by Diane Ehrensaft vii

Introduction: Why Resilience Is Important for Queer and Trans People 1

1. Getting Real: Defining Your LGBTQ Self in a World That Demands Conformity 7

2. You Are More Than Your Gender and Sexual Orientation 29

3. Further Identifying Negative Messages 53

4. Knowing Your Self-Worth 71

5. Standing Up for Yourself 93

6. Affirming and Enjoying Your Body 109

7. Building Relationships and Creating Community 125

8. Getting Support and Knowing Your Resources 141

9. Getting Inspired 165

10. Making Change and Giving Back 177

11. Growing and Thriving 191

Acknowledgments 205

Resources 207

References 209