DECEMBER 2024

It is that time of year again to wrap up the Fall 2024 semester at Pasadena City College. The Pride Center has seen some significant changes in the last few months with new staffing, re-imagining, and reconfiguring the space to serve the Pride Center student population. We have come up against some challenges and some incredible love and support in the efforts toward change as we make changes and updates in space we share.

As we move forward into the new year we asked ourselves how do we create a brave space and the poem in Holding Change by Mickey ScottBey Jones captures what we hope to do in 2025.

An Invitation to Brave Space

by Micky ScottBey Jones

Together we will create brave space

Because there is no such thing as a "safe space" ---

We exist in the real world.

We all carry scars and we have all caused wounds.

In this space

We seek to turn down the volume of the outside world,

We amplify voices that fight to be heard elsewhere,

We call each other to more truth and love.

We have the right to start somewhere and continue to grow.

We have the responsibility to examine what we think we know.

We will not be perfect.

This space will not be perfect.

It will not always be what we wish it to be.

BUT

It will be our brave space together,

and

We will work on it side by side

1. Jones, M.S. and brown, adrienne maree (2021) ‘An Invitation to Brave Space’, in Holding change: The way of emergent strategy facilitation and mediation. Edinburgh: AK Press, pp. 80–82. 

Holiday Self Care for LGBT Youth 

Focuses on the importance of creating a self-care plan for LGBTQ youth during the holiday season, a time that can often bring up stress and anxiety due to complex family dynamics. Offers practical advice for preparing before, during, and after holiday gatherings, such as finding a supportive person to talk to, using affirmations to manage anxiety, and incorporating small actions like wearing affirming clothing to maintain a sense of identity. Emphasizes post-holiday self-care, talking to a supportive friend or engaging in comforting activities, and highlights the importance of seeking professional support.

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/blog/holiday-self-care-tips-for-lgbtq-youth/

Queer and Trans Holiday Survival Guide

Practical advice and coping strategies for queer and trans people navigating the emotional challenges of the holiday season, particularly around stress, family dynamics, and mental health struggles. Emphasizes importance of building a support network, setting boundaries, and engaging in self-care activities such as meditation, creative outlets, and connecting with others. Guide includes personal stories, coping tips, and a resources for mental health support, along with suggestions for creating positive traditions and staying connected with chosen families or communities.

https://includedhealth.com/blog/lgbtq/queer-and-trans-holiday-survival-guide/

Navigating the Holidays as a Transgender Individual

Offers advice for transgender individuals navigating the holidays, especially with family tensions and political differences. Emphasizes protecting mental health by setting boundaries, considering not attending family events, and focusing on self-care. Strategies for maintaining composure in uncomfortable situations and finding joy with supportive friends or chosen family are highlighted. The piece encourages reflection on personal needs and offers resources for mental and physical support. Ultimately, it advocates for finding peace, joy, and connection, whether with family, friends, or through self-reflection.

https://www.transvitae.com/navigating-holiday-gatherings-as-a-transgender-individual-in-2024/#google_vignette

Surviving the Holidays as a Trans / Non-Binary Person

Practical advice for transgender and nonbinary individuals navigating the challenges of the holiday season, including dealing with family rejection and discomfort. Ways to cope, such as staying connected with supportive friends, setting boundaries with difficult family members, and finding ways to create distance or peace during gatherings. For those looking to improve family relationships, emphasizes the importance of honest communication, self-advocacy, and addressing uncomfortable issues directly to foster understanding and healing.

https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/getting-through-holidays-transgender-or-gender-nonconforming-person/