In this episode of Queer for Cities, host Joshua Croke discusses the intersection of identity and place, with a focus on the contributions of queer and trans people in designing inclusive and equitable communities. The episode features conversations with activist and community organizer, MG Xiong, who shares their experience as a Hmong Transmasculine and non-binary individual working in transgender advocacy and community building. The discussion touches on navigating challenging conversations, envisioning inclusive futures, and combating barriers to equitable living. The episode also highlights the importance of accountability, love, and support within the queer and trans communities to foster a more inclusive, joyful, and normative societal view of queerness. Additionally, there's an exploration of the challenges in philanthropy and resource distribution that impact transformational work for queer and trans rights.

00:00 Welcome to Queer for Cities: Making Queer a Joyful Norm

00:42 Spotlight on MG Xiong: A Journey of Identity and Advocacy

03:55 First Event: A Gathering for Trans and Non-Binary Folks

06:28 Featuring Derek Austin: Poetry and the Power of Words

08:48 Love Your Labels: Empowering Queer and Trans Youth

10:22 Envisioning a Liberated Future: Housing and Community Building

17:00 Challenging the Philanthropic Industrial Complex

34:18 MG's Podcast Preview: True Story, Trans Realities

43:27 Building Inclusive Communities: Accountability and Joy

49:35 Closing Thoughts and Community Engagement

You can listen to Queer For Cities loud and queer wherever you get your podcasts and on WICN 90.5 FM, Worcester’s only NPR affiliate station. Tune in on Wednesdays at 6 PM and Sundays at 11 PM and find us at QueerForCities.com. Queer For Cities is created and hosted by Joshua Croke. Our Assistant Producer is Jack Tripp. Our Audio Engineer & Music Producer is Giuliano D’Orazio.

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Nipmuc Nation

MG Xiong / Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition

The Trans Community of New England

Derrick Austin

Love Your Labels

Stonewall Foundation

The Faggots & Their Friends Between Revolutions

adrienne maree brown

Taj Smith / Rooted Respite

Queer For Cities is about life at the intersections and designing equity-centered, liberated communities where LGBTQ+ folx thrive. Follow us @QueerForCities and QueerForCities.com. Hosted by Joshua Croke. #QueerForCities