By Jeff Murphy,
November 9, 2015
WARRENSBURG, MO – Taking place a day prior to the National Transgender Day of Remembrance,
the University of Central Missouri will host the informational event, “TRANSFORUM
2015,” as well as a special performance by Rebecca King as a way to answer questions,
raise awareness, and provide affirmation for those who lead transgender lives. Activities
planned for Nov. 19 in Twomey Auditorium in Wood Building 100 are free and open to
faculty, staff, students and other interested individuals.
“TRANSFORUM 2015” takes place between 3 to 5 p.m., and features guest speakers and
a panel discussion with members of the Kansas City Transgender Institute, including
its director, Caroline Gibbs. They will provide basic information about transgender
as well as narratives from transgender adults, teens, and parents of transgender teens
as a way to begin the conversation of inclusivity in UCM’s diverse community. A presentation
about the PRISM/Safe Zone by Tara Napoleon-Clifford, Ideas Coordinator for Mentoring,
Advocacy and Peer Support at UCM, also takes place during the forum.
Following a mixer at 5 p.m. with refreshments and opportunities to visit with guest
speakers, the university will host the presentation, “Storms Beneath Her Skin,” featuring
transgender performing artist Rebecca King at
7 p.m., also in Twomey Auditorium. King, a New York resident who is a writer and performer,
will talk about her journey from male to female.
“TRANSFORUM 2015” and King’s performance are sponsored by the UCM Women, Gender, and
Sexuality Studies Program and the office of Mentoring, Advocacy, and Peer Support.
Individuals planning the events scheduled activities prior to the National Transgender
Day of Remembrance as a way to bring awareness to the local community in a timely
manner. Individuals who have questions are encouraged to contact Joe Davis, graduate
assistant in Women and Gender Studies, at srdavis@ucmo.edu.
