Where Does Our Power Come From?

Abstract

We’ve had a couple of moments of major community rallying against anti-trans oppression recently. Back in Fall 2023, several hundred people showed up in Winnipeg to protect a drag queen story hour from bigoted protestors. Both this and the more recent response to Prof. Boucher’s talk have been incredible displays of community support which created space for activists to connect with one another and foster social ties which can be drawn on for the next time people need to respond. These major flashpoints were both organized responses to rightly perceived threats. It’s good that we’re able to mobilize support during these times. However, we cannot liberate trans people through defensive actions alone. These actions protect our communities and keep us safe, but they are not where our power is.