To Circle w/ Womxn*
March 9, 2021 update: For the past few years I’ve used the spelling “womxn” as a way to state my inclusivity of all women into my work, regardless of biology. I was using this spelling as I thought it was an “easy” way to state that I work with all women (Black, Indigenous, & women of color), femmes, & gender nonconforming folks.
I have recently learned this spelling is not affirming to transgender women. As I understand, by using the “x” I was actually furthering the idea that trans women are “other,” when in fact they are women.
I am sorry I caused harm. I am sorry I was choosing my ease over the lived experience of trans women.
I hold deep gratitude for my community & our powerful dialogue as we learn & unlearn together. To create the world we know is possible, we must listen to each other especially when the listening might be uncomfortable.
March 5, 2021 update: I’m currently unpacking my usage of the spelling “womxn,” as I’m learning this term is actually non-affirming to trans women.
In a practice of not rushing to “fix,” I’m pausing to listen.
I’m dedicated to anti-oppression work & that requires learning in realtime. Thanks for unlearning with me.
Original post, September 23, 2019:
In June of 2019 I attended Spirit Weavers Gathering in southern Oregon. This experience with 500 hundred womxn was a reminder - a reclaiming - of a personal calling: to be in circle with womxn & in collaboration with Nature.
In recent years I've increased my study of gender identity & inclusivity, exploring how gender relates to my business. I've learned enough to know I don't know a thing & I will make mistakes. Through all of this I never considered that I'd only collaborate with a particular gender. Which is why I was so confused at Spirit Weavers when I found myself in tears, knowing deepdeep within that I'm supposed to be in circle with womxn.
But how does this fit within my understanding of gender inclusion?? I don't know.
What I do know is the internal fire I felt when I overheard again & again at Spirit Weavers:
"Without the male gaze, I feel safe."
This is the work, the conversations, the exploration that calls me. I don't have the answers & I don't know where this will lead. All I know is: I've got to lean in.
Post Cervix Portrait Party (yes, really) hosted by Pussy Power House at Spirit Weavers Gathering
I use the spelling of womxn to demonstrate an inclusive definition: trans women, cisgender women, BIWOC, & anyone who identifies with the term woman.
I use womxn to spark a conversation about gender.
Not everyone agrees with this spelling & I want to know why. I want to learn. I want to explore my privilege, my assumptions, & my ignorances.
I also understand it's my responsibility to share what I learn with fellow white, cisgender women so we don't put this labor on BIWOC &/or trans women.
