Fierce, Fabulous, and Fluid: How Trans High School Students Work at Gender Nonconformity

• In Event: Interrogating Queer and Trans Studies in Education: Inquiries, Interruptions, Innovations

Abstract

Based on a year-long ethnographic study conducted in a high school, this paper documents and analyzes the experiences of trans, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming youth who persevered, navigating their identities and striving to thrive within the education system. Through their daily efforts, these young people tried to expand notions of gender in their school environment, building more inclusive spaces that embraced all trans identities. By sharing their stories, the paper emphasizes the need for educators to shift away from a focus on risk and concern, to instead foster a celebration of trans and gender-nonconforming youth. It urges educators to cultivate a genuine desire to understand and support trans youth, paving the way for a brighter and queerer future within educational settings.

Author

• LJ Slovin, University of Victoria