Reminders of the world we want (also, it's been 1 year!)
Happy birthday to ATJ! Your support means that trans joy continues to be visible, loud, and proud, in a time when those in power would love for it to be snuffed out or forced underground. We document our thriving. We amplify our voices. We lift us up.
Survival magic in hard times
Every bit of joy marginalized folks experience in times of oppression is a reclaiming. It's saying no to narratives that would paint us as a pestilence or as pitiful victims. It's taking back our power over our hard-pressed nervous systems. And it's imagination work.
a year of joy with many more to come
December can be a challenging time for many, and a delightful time for others. Quite possibly, it's been a mix of both. I know it has been for me, and the submissions this month offer us a glimpse into the wide, beautiful, nuanced spectrum of trans experiences during this time of year.
when is trans day of joy?
Our joys are inexplicably intertwined with infusions of care, hope, memory, belonging, rest. And to refuse to succumb to a lifetime of grinding or numbing out, to continue to believe life is worth living, is resistance.
perfectly imperfect in every way
With each issue of ATJ, I learn that trans joy is continuously evolving, where the f*ckery of the world is but wood to a flame, as we alchemize our unbroken experiences into new insights, connections, and creative explosions.
I hold you & nature holds us
Why this newsletter exists in the first place: to remind all of us that we've got each other's backs. When one of us feels low, another of us is there to rise up with wisdom, humor, or care in the form of words, art, and invitations into community.
more trans possibilities
Trans possibilities are worth celebrating, now and forever. From badass authors and crafters to a whole bouquet of transition-related joy, this month's issue is a magical way to close out the summer.
the secret teachings of trans joy
"And yet, in a population often considered to be one of the most disembodied, stressed-out, and in crisis...what I see is the constant blooming of gratitude for life and all its gifts."
trans joy is fierce creativity
Trans joy is not a passive act. Trans joy is not lightly won. When I consider trans joy, I see fierce creativity. I see Sylvia Rivera turning jeers and boos to cheers on the stage of Pride 1973. I see the ways my community shows up for each other even when we are imperfect and afraid...
so much joy they can't repress
What to do when you encounter a cougar, so much trans art, and more nourishment for these trying times.
