Thursday Valley Library talk to focus on transgender children

“Transgender Children in Today’s Society: A Conversation” is a community dialogue open to everyone, said Juneau Public Libraries community outreach librarian Andi Hirsh.

One goal of the library, she said, is to engage the community in thoughtful conversation.

“In addition to providing materials, books, movies, internet access, journals, documents and articles on topics like gender and identity and what being transgender means, we also try to provide perspective with live people. We’re hoping to be a neutral space where people can come and feel comfortable to talk, listen, learn and share their opinions,” Hirsh added.

The talk will be led by gender specialist Aidan Key, a former Juneau resident and the founder and director of a Seattle-based organization called Gender Diversity: Education and Support Services. The organization aims at increasing awareness and improving the well-being for people of all gender identities.

Hirsh said Key will speak for about an hour, followed by a community dialogue. Key will share his perspective of a transgender youth presence within a family, a school and the broader community.

Hirsh hopes adults who work with youth, educators, parents, children and teens will attend the talk.

“Kids know what’s going on. They’re often on the forefront of this conversation. It would be great if kids and teens attended, listened and were able to share their thoughts and feelings,” she said.

The event will take place Thursday at 6.p.m. at the Mendenhall Valley Public Library’s large meeting room, which is located near the library entrance. It’s free to attend.

The talk is part of the libraries’ Science on Screen series, which pairs expert speakers and classic movies. “Some Like It Hot,” which Hirsh said is an early example in film of people dealing with gender identity, shows this week at the Gold Town Nickelodeon.

• Contact reporter Lisa Phu at 523-2246 or lisa.phu@juneauempire.com.