Gender Transcending- Workshop Six- Situating Our Heritage

6. Situating our heritage

In our final workshop session, we will build upon the exploration of queering narratives and heritage by focusing on global and local perspectives of queer identity. This session marks a culmination of our journey, aiming to connect personal stories with broader cultural narratives.

To begin, we will explore the vast diversity of gender identities around the world, using an interactive map as a tool for discovery. This global perspective will serve as a foundation for understanding how different cultures have historically embraced and celebrated gender diversity, enriching our appreciation for the global heritage of queer identities.

From this broad exploration, we will narrow our focus to a closer locale: Todmorden. Situated within this local context, we will delve into the unique queer culture and heritage that has been cultivated within our town. This session will provide an opportunity for participants to reflect on and document their own personal experiences within Todmorden, celebrating the richness of local queer histories.

The workshop will encourage autobiographical writing, inviting participants to explore and articulate their individual journeys and connections to Todmorden's queer community. By sharing these personal narratives, participants will contribute to the creation of a local queer heritage archive, preserving and celebrating the diverse experiences that shape our town's cultural landscape.

Throughout this session, participants will be inspired to draw from their personal experiences and insights gained throughout the project. The exploration of global and local queer identities will prompt creative responses that blend personal reflections with broader cultural contexts.

Participants will engage in autobiographical writing that captures the nuances and complexities of their identities within Todmorden's queer community. This creative process not only honours individual stories but also contributes to a collective understanding of local queer heritage, fostering a sense of pride and continuity within the community.

Additionally, the workshop will lay the groundwork for Todmorden's Queer Heritage Tour, highlighting the significance of personal narratives in shaping community history. By documenting and sharing these stories, participants will play a vital role in preserving and promoting the visibility of Todmorden's queer heritage for future generations.

Ultimately, this final workshop session aims to empower participants to see themselves as active contributors to heritage and culture. By situating personal experiences within broader global and local narratives, participants will celebrate the diversity and resilience of queer identities, ensuring that their stories continue to inspire and educate others within Todmorden and beyond.