Trans* Lesson Plan

Trans* Lesson Plan

By Amari 'Mari' McGeeHistory
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Trans* Lesson Plan episodes

  • Capturing Trans Identity: The Legacy of Loren Cameron

    Join us for an exploration of photographer and transgender activist Loren Cameron's remarkable life and legacy. In this episode, we delve into Cameron's life, his groundbreaking work "Body Alchemy" and his revolutionary approach to trans representation in photography. We examine how Cameron's art challenged societal norms and paved the way for future generations. This compelling episode provides insights into the intersection of art, identity, and activism, while honoring Cameron's lasting impact on transgender representation in visual arts.

    Content warning: This episode contains discussions of mental health struggles and mentions of suicide.

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    @translessonplan

    @mariiiwrld

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    References:

    • Green, P. (2023, April 20). Loren Cameron, 63, dies; his camera brought transgender men to light. New York Times. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/20/arts/loren-cameron-dead.html
    • Guide to the Loren Rex Cameron papers, 1961-2008. (n.d.). https://rmc.library.cornell.edu/EAD/htmldocs/RMM07677.html
    • Hoenes, J. Loren Cameron’s Distortions of Heteronormative Gender Dualism.
    • Snider, S. (2005). You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Transgendered Person: Contemporary Photography and the Construction of Queer (ed) Identities. Athanor, 23, 83-87.
    • Subject: Loren Cameron - Digital Transgender Archive Search results. (n.d.). https://www.digitaltransgenderarchive.net/catalog?f%5Bdta_other_subject_ssim%5D%5B%5D=Loren+Cameron
    • Tr, & Tr. (2023, August 5). Body Alchemy: Transsexual Portraits | Trans Reads. Trans Reads |. https://transreads.org/bodyalchemy/Taylor, M. (2000). Changing subjects: transgender consciousness and the 1920s (Doctoral dissertation, University of York).
    • X-TRA. (n.d.). https://www.x-traonline.org/article/i-wanted-the-world-to-see-us
    26 min
  • Transgender Day of Visibility

    Join us for an enlightening exploration of the International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV). In this episode, we delve into the history, significance, and evolution of this crucial day of recognition, from its grassroots beginnings in 2009 to its current global impact. Learn about TDOV founder Rachel Crandall-Crocker's vision, hear powerful voices from the transgender community, and understand the ongoing challenges and triumphs in the fight for transgender visibility and rights.

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    @translessonplan

    @mariiiwrld

    TS Madison Starter House IG: https://www.instagram.com/naesminc/

    Anti-Trans Bill Tracker: https://translegislation.com/

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    30 min
  • Valor & Identity: The Untold Story of Amelio Robles Ávila

    Come learn more about Amelio Robles Ávila, a stunning transgender revolutionary who made history in Mexico during the tumultuous years of the Mexican Revolution. We explore the life of a man who defied gender expectations in early 20th-century Mexico.
    Discover how Amelio's privileged background, military prowess, and unwavering sense of identity helped him navigate the complex social landscape of his time. Learn about his successful integration into civilian life, including his legally recognized marriage in 1930, and understand the importance of preserving transgender historical narratives accurately.


    This brief episode provides insightful information regarding intersectionality, transgender history, and the current gender identity debate.

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    @translessonplan

    @mariiiwrld

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    References:

    • Amelio Robles Ávila | Legacy Project Chicago. (n.d.). Legacy Project Chicago. https://legacyprojectchicago.org/person/amelio-robles-avila
    • Amelio Robles Avila — Transgender History Month. (n.d.). Transgender History Month. https://www.transgenderhistorymonth.com/tht/amelio-robles-avila
    • Campos, R. (2024, June 11). Courage and Identity: The legacy of Amelio Robles Ávila. Lolo - Modern Mexican Mercadito. https://lolomercadito.com/blogs/news/courage-and-identity-the-legacy-of-amelio-robles-avila?srsltid=AfmBOoqXFwRLJP7tyeFrW7WANA7AAS532crqHjfsPDWUNL768FyVsnqM
    • Cano, G. (2009). Amelio Robles, andar de soldado viejo. Masculinidad (transgénero). Debate Feminista, 39. https://doi.org/10.22201/cieg.2594066xe.2009.39.1417
    • Darling, H. (2023, August 28). Amelio Robles Ávila — Making Queer history. Making Queer History. https://www.makingqueerhistory.com/articles/2023/8/27/amelio-robles-vila
    • Lewistwiby. (2024, June 8). Amelio Robles Avila: The Trans Colonel of the Mexican Revolution. Lewis Twiby’s Past and Present. https://lewisrhystwiby.wordpress.com/2024/06/09/amelio-robles-avila-the-trans-colonel-of-the-mexican-revolution/
    • Rose, S. (2025, February 9). Amelio Robles Avila: trans man who fought in Mexican Revolution. Blurred Bylines | SEO + Stories by Shari Rose. https://blurredbylines.com/articles/amelio-robles-avila-transgender-mexican-revolution/
    25 min
  • Late Bloomer, Lasting Legacy: The Beverly Glenn-Copeland Story

    Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Beverly Glenn-Copeland, a groundbreaking musician and transgender pioneer. From his early days as one of McGill University's first Black students to his 25-year career in children's television and the creation of the innovative album "Keyboard Fantasies," we'll trace Glenn-Copeland's path to becoming an inspiration for LGBTQ+ elders. This episode delves into his late-in-life transition, musical renaissance, and lasting impact on both the arts and transgender history.

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    @translessonplan

    @mariiiwrld

    Merch:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://trans-lesson-plan.printify.me/products⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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    References:

    • Merril, J. (1979). You Can Be Anything You Want: An Interview with Beverly Glenn-Copeland. Canadian Woman Studies/Les cahiers de la femme.
    • About — BEVERLY GLENN-COPELAND. (n.d.). BEVERLY GLENN-COPELAND. https://beverlyglenncopeland.com/about
    • Beverly Glenn-Copeland – a spiritual transgender ambient artist finally recognised for his trailblazing in music and attitudes - Loud And Quiet. (2020, January 13). Loud and Quiet. https://www.loudandquiet.com/interview/beverly-glenn-copeland-a-spiritual-transgender-ambient-artist-finally-recognised-for-his-trailblazing-in-music-and-attitudes/
    • Beverly Glenn-Copeland - Kinfolk. (n.d.). Kinfolk. https://www.kinfolk.com/stories/beverly-glenn-copeland/
    • Beverly Glenn-Copeland – Transgressive records. (n.d.). https://transgressiverecords.com/artist/beverly-glenn-copeland/
    • Hansen, C. (2024, December 10). Beverly Glenn-Copeland makes L.A. debut ahead of dementia doc - Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/music/story/2024-12-09/beverly-glenn-copeland-documentary-feature
    • The incredible true story of Beverly Glenn-Copeland. (2023, December 7). Huck. https://www.huckmag.com/article/beverly-glenn-copeland-interview-transmissions-album
    • Wiseman, A. (2024, October 2). Musician & Transgender Activist Beverly Glenn-Copeland Subject Of Doc ‘See You Tomorrow’ From Chase Joynt. Deadline. https://deadline.com/2024/10/beverly-glenn-copeland-documentary-see-you-tomorrow-chase-joynt-1236105535/


    25 min
  • Beyond the Birth Room: The Hidden History of Mother George

    Today, we uncover the remarkable story of Mother George, a Black trans woman who revolutionized midwifery in 19th-century Idaho. Learn how this pioneering figure delivered over 1,000 babies, broke racial barriers, and left an indelible mark on American healthcare history. Her achievements as a respected healthcare worker established a precedent for future generations of Black transgender medical practitioners, highlighting their essential contribution to community health. Mother George's narrative, encompassing her voyage to Idaho and her position as a reliable community caretaker, highlights the frequently overlooked contributions of Black trans individuals in the formation of our nation.

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    @translessonplan

    @mariiiwrld

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    References:

    • A, R. (2016, February 1). Midwives: What's gender got to do with it? - The Gift of Giving Life. *The Gift of Giving Life*. https://thegiftofgivinglife.com/midwives-whats-gender-got-to-do-with-it/
    • Cantwell, L. G. (2010). *Mother George: The Midwife who Shocked Grays Lake*.
    • Exhibit features transgender people in the West* (n.d.). https://tacomaweekly.com/exhibit-features-transgender-people-in-the-west-p1560-117.htm
    • Initiatives, S. F. O. O. T. (2022, April 7). Andrea Horne on Black Trans History - San Francisco Office of Transgender Initiatives - Medium. *Medium*. https://transcitysf.medium.com/andrea-horne-on-black-trans-history-18edf5902822
    • Project, L. R. (2023, July 29). *Remembering Mother George, beloved ancestor of our community — Lavender Rights Project*. Lavender Rights Project. https://www.lavenderrightsproject.org/blog/2023/7/28/remembering-mother-george-beloved-ancestor-of-our-community
    22 min
  • Divine Gender: The Revolutionary Tale of the Gallae

    Join us for an enlightening exploration of one of history's most fascinating examples of gender diversity - the Gallae/Galli, transgender priests of the ancient Mediterranean world. From their origins in Phrygia to their pivotal role in Roman society, discover how these remarkable individuals challenged traditional gender norms while serving as respected religious figures.

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    @translessonplan

    @mariiiwrld

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    Subscribe to our newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://mailchi.mp/a914d2eca1cf/trans-lesson-plan⁠⁠⁠⁠

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    References:

    • Endres, N. (2015). Galli: Ancient Roman Priests. In Encyclopedia. http://www.glbtqarchive.com/ssh/galli_S.pdf
    • English Heritage. (n.d.). The Galli: Breaking Roman gender norms. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/lgbtq-history/the-galli/#:~:text=On%20initiation%20to%20the%20cult,nonbinary%20people%20have%20identified%20with.
    • Erez-Yodfat, N., Frigerio, G., Triggs, H., Brocklehurst, G., Department of Classics, Morales, H., & Jukes, A. (2021). New Classicists issue 5 March 2021 [Journal-article]. New Classicists, 2–64. https://www.newclassicists.com/_files/ugd/f6d36b_e82190d2fdb943ad9f4a05a60edc971d.pdf#page=35
    • Mowat, C. (2021). Don’t be a Drag, Just be a Priest: The Clothing and Identity of the Galli of Cybele in the Roman Republic and Empire. Gender & History, 33(2), 296–313. https://doi.org/10.1111/1468-0424.12518
    • National Organization for Women. (2017, May 16). LGBTIMe Machine: Ancient Greece | National Organization for Women. National Organization for Women -. https://now.org/blog/lgbtime-machine-ancient-greece/
    • Pinto, R., & Pinto, L. C. G. (2013). Transgendered archaeology: the Galli and the Catterick Transvestite. Theoretical Roman Archaeology Journal, 0(2012), 169. https://doi.org/10.16995/trac2012_169_181
    • QueerAF. (2024, May 8). The Gallae: Transgender priestesses of Ancient Rome. QueerAF. https://www.wearequeeraf.com/the-gallae-transgender-priestesses-of-ancient-rome/
    • View of Close Encounters with the Third Kind. (n.d.). https://journal.lib.uoguelph.ca/index.php/classics/article/view/6348/5998
    • We Have Always Existed Transgender Ancient History. (2023, February 28). The Gallae: Roman Transgender Priestesses of Kybele | Ancient Transgender History [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSpNMe8j6sg
    • 27 min
    • A Soul Pioneer: The Jackie Shane Story

      Join us for an illuminating journey into the life of Jackie Shane, a groundbreaking soul singer who carved her own path through the 1960s music scene. This episode explores how Shane's unwavering authenticity and electrifying performances challenged societal norms and paved the way for transgender representation in popular music. From her early days in Nashville to her transformative years in Toronto's vibrant music scene, discover how Jackie Shane's powerful voice and fearless self-expression left an indelible mark on music history. Learn about her chart-topping hit "Any Other Way," her mysterious disappearance at the height of her career, and the enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations.

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      @translessonplan

      @mariiiwrld

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      References:

      • Allen, Dan. “Trailblazing Black Trans Singer Jackie Shane Finally Gets Her Due in Tennessee.” ⁠NBCNews.Com⁠, NBCUniversal News Group, 20 Sept. 2024, ⁠www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-pop-culture/jackie-shane-singer-black-trans-lgbtq-tennessee-rcna171975⁠.
      • Darling, Harper-Hugo. “Jackie Shane.” Making Queer History, Making Queer History, 29 May 2024, ⁠www.makingqueerhistory.com/articles/2020/2/24/jackie-shane-part-i⁠.
      • Fensterstock, Alison. “Jackie Shane, a Force of Nature Who Disappeared, Has a Story All Her Own.” NPR, NPR, 25 Oct. 2017, ⁠www.npr.org/sections/therecord/2017/10/25/559775225/jackie-shane-a-force-of-nature-who-disappeared-has-a-story-all-her-own⁠.
      • “Jackie Shane: Remembering the Groundbreaking Trans Soul Singer.” The Guardian, Guardian News and Media, 25 Feb. 2019, ⁠www.theguardian.com/music/2019/feb/25/jackie-shane-groundbreaking-trans-soul-singer⁠.
      • Mcgowan, Douglas. “Jackie Shane: It’s just, ‘yes ma’am, no ma’am.’” Southern Cultures, vol. 24, no. 3, 2018, pp. 30–44, ⁠https://doi.org/10.1353/scu.2018.0030⁠.
      • “No Other Way: The Story of Jackie Shane.” Museum of Toronto, 2 Apr. 2024, ⁠www.museumoftoronto.com/collection/no-other-way-the-story-of-jackie-shane/⁠.
      • Stack, Liam. “Jackie Shane, Transgender Pioneer of 1960s Soul Music, Dies at 78.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 23 Feb. 2019, ⁠www.nytimes.com/2019/02/22/obituaries/jackie-shane-dead.html⁠.
      • 32 min
      • 2024 Wrapped: A Year of Growth and Gratitude

        Join us for a special year-end episode as we celebrate the incredible growth and milestones of Trans* Lesson Plan in 2024! Listen as we reflect on the podcast's journey from its inception in 2020 to its remarkable revival and success this year. Hear about our exciting plans for 2025, and join us in celebrating the power of preserving and sharing trans history.

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        @mariiiwrld

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        19 min
      • Pathfinder in Science and Identity: The Extraordinary Dr. Ben Barres

        Join us for an inspiring exploration of Dr. Ben Barres's remarkable journey as a pioneering neuroscientist and transgender advocate. In this episode, we delve into how Dr. Barres broke barriers in academia while making groundbreaking contributions to brain science. We discover how his unique perspective on gender in science shaped his advocacy for equality in academia. Learn about his influential research, mentorship legacy, and tireless work promoting diversity in scientific fields. 

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        @mariiiwrld

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        23 min
      • Strutting Through History: The Groundbreaking Story of Tracey Norman

        Join us for an inspiring journey through fashion history as we explore the groundbreaking story of Tracey "Africa" Norman, the first African-American trans model to achieve mainstream success in the 1970s. From her meteoric rise in the fashion industry to her historic Clairol campaigns, we delve into Norman's remarkable journey of resilience, authenticity, and triumph. In this 20-ish minute episode, we'll explore her breakthrough moments, the challenges she faced in a groundbreaking career, her influential role in the ballroom scene, and her inspiring comeback that continues to impact fashion industry inclusivity today. Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of discrimination and workplace prejudice.

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        @translessonplan

        @mariiiwrld

        Merch: ⁠⁠https://trans-lesson-plan.printify.me/products⁠⁠

        Subscribe to our newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://mailchi.mp/a914d2eca1cf/trans-lesson-plan⁠

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        Works Cited:

        Brennan Kilbane, Diego Bendezu. “At 71, the First Black Trans Model Looks Back.” Allure, Allure, 3 Oct. 2024, www.allure.com/story/tracey-norman-beauty-profile.

        Masters, Jeffrey. “Tracey ‘Africa’ Norman Looks Back on Her Legendary Modeling Career.” Advocate.Com, Advocate.com, 31 May 2023, www.advocate.com/transgender/2021/1/27/transgender-tracey-africa-norman-clairol-model.

        Masters, Jeffrey. “Tracey ‘Africa’ Norman Looks Back on Her Legendary Modeling Career.” Advocate.Com, Advocate.com, 31 May 2023, www.advocate.com/transgender/2021/1/27/transgender-tracey-africa-norman-clairol-model.

        “Queer Newark - Tracey Africa Norman.” Queer Newark - Oral History Project, 31 Oct. 2016, queer.newark.rutgers.edu/interviews/tracey-africa-norman.

        TodayShow. “Meet Tracey ‘africa’ Norman, the 1st Black Trans Model Who Was on a Clairol Box in 1975.” TODAY.Com, TODAY, 1 June 2021, www.today.com/style/tracey-africa-norman-1st-black-trans-model-was-born-her-t219674.

        “Tracey Norman - Model.” MODELS.Com, models.com/models/tracey-norman. Accessed 7 Dec. 2024.

        “Trans Visibility in Fashion: The Past, The Present and Future | InStyle.” InStyle, YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=vj1Y7ZvPhrg. Accessed 7 Dec. 2024.

        23 min

      About Trans* Lesson Plan

      From the publisher's feed

      The Trans* Lesson Plan is a podcast that explores the rich and complex history of transgender individuals, their experiences, and share additional trans* education. From ancient cultures to modern day, we delve into the ways in which gender identity has been understood and expressed throughout history. Join us as we deepen our understanding and appreciation of transgender history and education. Welcome to the Trans* Lesson Plan!

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