Art & Creativity at the 2nd Asterisk Trans* Conference

Jade Phoenix will perform Friday and conduct a workshop Saturday.

Jade Phoenix describes themselves as a "Queer, Trans*, Femme, First Generation Filipinx-American, Parent, LA based Performance Poet and Activist/Educator." Their work is a poetic expression rooted in the multiple identities they hold and how they intersect with their day to day fight for liberation as they create and navigate our current social and political systems and structures. Jade Phoenix is a fierce story and truth teller, a vulnerable and engaging performer, and passionate and informative educator, organizer and activist.

Jade Phoenix will help open the 2nd Asterisk Trans* Conference on Friday, February 26 at UC Riverside. Friday's events are free and open to everyone. Folks who register for Saturday's events may also attend Jade's workshop, one of several exploring art and creativity.

Creating Spaces for Creative Expression and Performance as Healing Art
Jade Phoenix
Creative/Performance art is and can be a very powerful tool for communities joined together in collective resitance, liberation, and authentic self expression. Yet in this midst of such power, one aspect of creative expression and performance that is often overlooked is its ability to be an intergral part of ones personal healing/coming out/empowerment process through collective/communal initiative to hold space and witness these acts. How can we begin to recognize, cultivate and harness this power for healing and subsequently create 
safer and more intentional spaces in and for our communities to access such power?

Art, Identity, and YOU: Trans Art and Empowerment Session
Casey Hoke, Point Foundation/GLSEN/ Cal Poly Pomona
Join Casey Hoke (he/him/his), a trans male artist and activist from Louisville, Kentucky on a journey through transgender awareness and activism through art and learn how expression can affirm as well as educate on aspects of identity. Interactive workshop with art supplies provided!

QTPOC Identities: A Writing Exploration
Eli Brown, UCR Alum
So many queer and trans people of color have gone through such diverse life experiences, but feel overwhelmed when trying to write about them because of the variety of intersections. This workshop will focus on helping individuals express their identities using writing exercises, discussion, and of course the opportunity to share. Writing can often bring people together, and the sharing of experience creates a ripple effect of growth, education and compassion in all communities. Participants are encouraged to take what they gain from the workshop into daily life to foster their creative outputs and find their true voice. All are welcome, QTPOC identified or not.