BY LOU CHIBBARO JR., WASHINGTON BLADE
Gavin Grimm will be a special guest speaker at D.C.'s Capital Trans Pride events on May 20. Photo courtesy of ACLU of Virginia
Gavin Grimm, the transgender male student at a Virginia high school who petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to gain the right to use the school bathroom that matches his gender identity, will be a special guest speaker at D.C.'s Capital Trans Pride events on May 20.
The 2017 Capital Trans Pride takes place at D.C.'s Studio Theater at 1501 14th St., N.W.
Organizers say the event consists of a full day of nine workshops that address a wide range of transgender issues; the showing of the award-winning film "Major!: A Documentary Film," which showcases the life of a black transgender elder who has been advocating for the rights of trans women of color for over 40 years; and a Resource Fair that includes participation by more than 25 organizations providing services to the trans community.
Grimm graduates this year from Gloucester High School in Gloucester County, which is considered part of the Norfolk-Virginia metropolitan area. He brought suit against his local school board after his school refused to allow him to use the men's bathroom. His case became the subject of national media reports, making him a spokesperson for transgender rights.
"Capital Trans Pride brings together the community for both a celebration and to share important information that has the potential to change the lives of those who attend," said Bianca Rey, executive director of Capital Trans Pride. "We've made significant progress regarding visibility, empowerment, and rights, but now more than ever, we must all continue to work to secure full equality," Rey said in a statement.
Among the workshops scheduled to be held are "Identity Documents and Name Changes," "Safer Sex for Trans Bodies," "Genderqueer 101," "Understanding the Trans Attracted Man," and Resume building in English and Spanish."
"Since its inception in 2008, the Capital Pride Alliance has been involved in the production of Capital Trans Pride," a statement released by organizers says.D.C.'s Capital Pride Parade and Festival are scheduled this year for June 10-11.
Further information about Capital Trans Pride can be obtained at http://capitalpride.org.
