In this playshop participants explored the legacy of queer ancestor James Baldwin; the novelist, playwright, essayist, poet and activist whose vivid words, insightful commentary, and fiery activism gave voice to the experience of being Black and queer in America and has inspired generations of people all over the world to insist on the dignity and liberty of all humans.

Rotimi Agbabiaka facilitated this exploration through creative writing, deep discussion, and laying bare the questions.

In this playshop, actor and writer Tina D’Elia introduced us to Gloria Anzaldúa through a performative talk leading into an inspiring series of creative prompts. D’Elia engaged playshop participants through writing and theater exercises that will deepen our exploration of Gloria Alzaldúa’s work. A Chicana- Tejana- Lesbian, feminist poet, activist, theorist and fiction writer, Anzaldúa encapsulates the experience of living under a multitude of identities that often intersect with each other while integrating her experiences of social and cultural marginalization into her work.

Enormvs Muñoz led participants to embody the essence of queer ancestor Kapaemāhū with lomi lomi (Hawaiian massage) and ‘ori Tahiti (Tahitian dance). Kapaemāhū was a 15th century māhū healer from Tahiti and Hawai‘i. Māhū are people embodying both female and male gender traits. Kapaemāhū was renowned for their healing gifts, experience, and wisdom.

In this playshop, Réal Vargis Alanis introduced participants to the queer ancestor Walter Mercado with Cumbia, Tarot readings, and Telenovela games. Walter Mercado was a much celebrated Puerto Rican astrologer, actor, dancer, and writer known for his bejeweled capes and his wildly creative and love-centered daily horoscope readings, that he gave for many years internationally on television.

Guan Yin (Kuan Yin) was a 5th century Chinese Bodhisattva known for taking 33 different forms across gender boundaries to effectively reach those who call for them in times of fear, despair, and uncertainty. In this playshop Tiff Lin connected participants to queer ancestor Guan Yin with oracle cards, authentic movement, and creative play!