Tips on starting a transgender discussion group

[Anthropos]

Hey folks!

So at my university, the LGBTUnion in the past year has made great strides in being trans-accepting. I, who started attending last November, thank G-d have never felt marginalized by anyone within the group, and am very happy to have been in such a great place at such a great time. However, the transgender people within the group are still a bit scattered and there's not a real cohesion among us. To help remedy this and provide a source of support, I'd like to start a discussion group over this summer. I was wondering if anyone had any tips insofar as starting one up, especially in a university setting.

Many thanks!
Anthropos

[Jamie D]

That's a good idea.

My most recent therapist, in our last session before she quit, suggested I try to start a support group in my country.

My county has a population of over 800,000, three universities, and three community colleges.

Statistically, we should have over 2,400 transpersons, but I only know of three, including one who posts here infrequently.

I don't have a clue how to reach out to the rest.

[Cindy]

That's a good idea.

My most recent therapist, in our last session before she quit, suggested I try to start a support group in my country.

My county has a population of over 800,000, three universities, and three community colleges.

Statistically, we should have over 2,400 transpersons, but I only know of three, including one who posts here infrequently.

I don't have a clue how to reach out to the rest.

Stop farting.

Sorry didn't mean that.

The biggest problem is breaking the ice.

Most TG people are terrified of appearing in public, or revealing themselves in any way. Once they have,  they can never go back, and that is a problem.

Very relaxed area, tell people that they can attend in any mode they feel comfortable with.  Have some security present in case fools crash in.

And have a programmed talk. Nibbles and soft drink, don't have alcohol until people know each over.

These things need a leader or leaders. People will just sit and stare, they are terrified, and the ones willing to dress will probably dress like drag artists. This is normal BTW for young people and nothing wrong with it.

As I said have a talk, maybe a psychologist can be present to talk the talk?


Communication and trust are the two features  I think you need to present.

Just thoughts