Tuesday 8 July 2025, 5:30pm to 6:30pm
Taiwhanga Kauhau — Auditorium, (lower ground) National Library Wellington. Entrance on Aitken Street.
In light of recent challenges faced by transgender individuals, understanding the histories of transgender people, especially their histories of resistance, can provide valuable insights. In this talk, trans historian Will Hansen will explore the complicated, intertwining relationships between trans and other queer communities through the lens of their activisms.
Exploring trans histories of resilience and activism
Transgender people have always been an integral part of life in Aotearoa, yet their rich histories often remain unexplored. Trans historian Will Hansen seeks to do this in his PhD thesis, Queer Activism in Aotearoa New Zealand, 1961–2013, which argues that Aotearoa’s myriad queer communities are materially and historically bound together.
In this talk, Will explores the relationships between trans and other queer communities through the lens of their resilience and activisms.
Understanding and uplifting trans communities
While transphobia and transmisogyny have been part of some queer activism, so too has trans solidarity. Will’s work casts a spotlight on the way trans, lesbian, gay, and other queer peoples have stood together, shoulder to shoulder, in the struggle against queer oppression.
By acknowledging and uplifting these stories, we can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the resilience and contributions of transgender individuals throughout Aotearoa’s history.
About the speaker
Will Hansen (he/him) completed his PhD in April 2025 at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington and is pending graduation in December. His thesis, Queer Activism in Aotearoa New Zealand, 1961 – 2013 is currently being written as a book manuscript with the generous assistance of the Judith Binney Writing Award. Will is also a trustee of Kawe Mahara Queer Archives Aotearoa, and through this work has had a close and enjoyable relationship with the Alexander Turnbull Library.
More information can be found here.