How does HT*WG embody principles of social justice?

HT*WG is devoted to promoting the equality and worth of all people by being conscious of systems of power and privilege including racism, sexism, ableism, classism, ageism, sizeism, and heterosexism. HT*WG strives to create safe spaces for diverse communities by validating individual experiences while promoting intersectionality and community accountability in order to increase solidarity and unity among marginalized communities.

What does Trans* mean and why does HT*WG use it?

Trans* is an umbrella term representing the vast spectrum of gender diverse identities including but not limited to transgender, transsexual, genderqueer, gender variant, gender non-conforming, fluid, bigender, polygender, agender, and gender questioning individuals. HT*WG uses Trans* in order to recognize the intersectional and indefinable continuum of gender identity and expression.

Why does HT*WG use the word Queer?

HT*WG uses Queer to describe the diverse, complex, and multi-dimensional communities that do not fall within normalized (hetero)sexuality and gender. Additionally, queer is used to denote a positive view of difference and acceptance of identities and experiences that may be considered variant or outside the mainstream cultural norm in terms of gender identity and expression and/or sexuality.

How is “Wellness” defined?

We define Wellness as a combination of physical health, psychological and emotional well-being, and possessing a sense of social belonging, safety, and happiness.

What does “Community” include?

HT*WG recognizes that trans* and queer communities are comprised of many identities and experiences including people who identify as trans*, queer, and LGBQPIA as well as significant others, friends, family members, and allies. HT*WG is committed to creating resources that individually support all who may be touched by the complexities of trans*, queer, and LGBQPIA experiences.

What kinds of services does HT*WG offer?

HT*WG services include but are not limited to area-specific trans* and queer focused social and physical wellness resources; gender identity and sexuality specific program creation and facilitation; cultural competency training and consultation; training for medical and behavioral providers; healthcare provider databases and evaluations; and trans* and queer specific networking and community building.

What are some example projects or programs?

Examples of HT*WG program’s include Cincinnati Trans* Community Group, Prism: Butler Country LGBTQPIA Youth Group, Community Impact’s Health, Hope, and Healing: Hip Hop for Health, Pones Inc. Project Activate, and Fabulously Fluid Gender Performance Productions.