J Mase III: A Black Trans Icon for LGBTQIA2S+ History Month

Trans Employment Project

By: Mo Viviane (they/them/theirs), Associate Director of Workplace Equity & Inclusion

This LGBTQIA2S+ History Month, I want to highlight an individual who has made an impact in my community, as well as in my life. J Mase III is a poet, educator, and advocate. He has left an indelible mark on the Trans and Queer community, challenging norms and amplifying Black and Brown folks. 

Images courtesy of J Mase III

J Mase III captures various forms of artistic expression, from poetry to photography, capturing the essence of his lived experiences and the stories of those who often go unheard. In his poetry, he delves into themes of identity, gender, race, and Queerness. His words create a powerful and introspective journey, inviting readers and listeners to explore their own perspectives and challenge societal constructs.

J Mase III has used his platforms to educate about the experiences and struggles of the Trans community, specifically Black and Brown Trans folks. Through workshops, performances, and public speaking engagements, he has fostered conversations that promote understanding, empathy, and acceptance. He is the author of White Folks Be Trippin’: An Ethnography Through Poetry & Prose. These pieces are inspired by Langston Hughes’s The Ways of White Folks and guide us into accepting what we already know: White Folks Be Trippin’. 

As the Co-Director of The Black Trans Prayer Book, an interfaith, multidimensional, artistic, and theological work that collects stories, poems, prayers, meditation, spells, and incantations of Black Trans & Non-binary folks, he has highlighted the intersections of race, gender, and faith. In this, a space of healing and connection within the community is prominent. In 2019, when 25 anti-Trans bills had been introduced in the United States, he created the campaign #TransphobiaIsASin. That number has since increased to 593 bills. This campaign is ongoing, especially since anti-Trans rhetoric and its connection to religious violence have not stopped

His book And Then I Got Fired: A Transqueer’s Reflections on Grief, Unemployment & Inappropriate Jokes About Death has helped me navigate being a Black Non-binary Queer person who left a pretty messed up workspace, while I was also navigating my grief and the complexities of life as a Transqueer person. J Mase III provides a unique perspective on resilience and growth. 

Back when I was a student at Northern Kentucky University, I had the opportunity to meet with J Mase III. His presence left a profound impact as he shared an immersive experience through poetry and thought leadership. He also led a writing workshop, where he fostered an environment of learning, empathy, and understanding. J Mase III is my Black Trans icon, deserving of so much recognition and admiration. He has inspired me to embrace myself, especially in a world that continues to erase folks like me.

For more information on J Mase III and to purchase his books, visit his website at https://jmaseiii.com

Navigating Workplace Support for 2TIGE Folks as Suicide Prevention

Trans Employment Project

By: Mo Viviane (they/them), Associate Director of Workplace Equity & Inclusion

The journey of 2 Spirit, Trans, Intersex and Gender Expansive (2TIGE) folks has often been marked by courage, self-discovery, and resilience. However, it’s a journey with many challenges, particularly within employment. The lack of adequate support and affirmation in the workplace for 2TIGE people can have profound implications for our professional lives and mental health. I want to delve deeper into the intricate relationship between workplace support, mental well-being, and suicide prevention for our community.

The Struggles of 2TIGE Folks in the Workplace
As 2TIGE folks, we face unique hurdles in our professional lives. These challenges can range from subtle forms of discrimination and microaggressions to overt acts of prejudice. Many workplaces lack policies and practices that protect us from discrimination based on our gender identity. This creates an environment of fear and uncertainty, making it challenging to express our authentic selves without fear of backlash.

The absence of support and affirmation takes a toll on our mental health. We are constantly navigating hostile or unwelcoming workplaces that lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. The stressors associated with hiding our identities or facing daily discrimination can exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions and lead to the onset of new ones. The cumulative effect of these challenges can contribute to a heightened risk of suicidal ideation.

The Link to Suicide Prevention
Addressing the lack of support and affirmation in the workplace is crucial to suicide prevention for the 2TIGE community. Throughout my research, I have found that 2TIGE folks are at significantly higher risk for suicide attempts and completion than our cisgender counterparts. A study published in the journal JAMA Surgery reveals that gender-affirming surgeries were associated with reducing suicide risk in our community, and it also highlights the importance of affirming gender identity.

Gender affirmation goes beyond medical procedures: it extends into all aspects of life, like workplaces. A supportive environment improves mental health outcomes and acts as a protective factor against suicidal ideation. Providing your 2TIGE employees with equitable opportunities, recognizing their names and pronouns, and fostering a culture of inclusivity can make a substantial difference in their overall well-being.

Steps Towards Change

• Policy Implementation: Workplaces NEED to establish and enforce policies that explicitly prohibit discrimination based on gender identity and expression!  These policies must address restroom access, dress codes, and employee benefits to ensure that 2TIGE folks are treated equitably and respectfully. 

• Education & Training: Organizations need to provide education and training for employees to raise awareness of 2TIGE identities, experiences, and the importance of creating inclusive environments. It is not to be the work of your 2TIGE employees to train other folks in the workplace – this is tokenization and can be triggering for folks. Sensitivity training can help mitigate ignorance and foster empathy.

• Affirmative Practices: As an employer, you must implement practices affirming and validating gender identities and expressions. This includes using correct names and pronouns, providing gender-neutral facilities, and supporting gender transition processes (as well as including that support in your grievances policies).

• Mental Health Support: Access to mental health resources is essential. As an employer, you can collaborate with mental health professionals to provide gender-affirming counseling services tailored to your 2TIGE employees. You can also further support by offering 2TIGE folks resources such as Trans LifeLine rather than the general suicide hotline.

Creating workplaces that support and affirm our community is a human right and a fundamental step toward suicide prevention. The connection between workplace environment, mental health, and suicide risks is undeniable. Acknowledging the struggles faced by 2TIGE folks and taking proactive measures to provide safe and inclusive atmospheres at organizations and companies contribute significantly to the overall well-being of your employees while fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. 

In fostering a culture of acceptance and support for 2TIGE individuals, you can make a lasting positive impact. Trans Employment Project is an invaluable resource, offering a wealth of knowledge, guidance, and practical tools to create workplaces where every individual feels valued and respected. By getting involved with Trans Employment Project (TEmP), you’re investing in the well-being of your employees while also committing to more inclusive, diverse, and thriving workplaces.

Together, let’s take proactive steps towards a reality where everyone can excel and flourish!