Most of queer history is told by the ones who live it, because the dominant culture does not consider our lives important. It is our survival labor, our love for our communities, that has brought our stories into the present era. To continue and encourage this evolving proof of our existence, Documenting Ourselves: Zines as Proof of Existence will be run with the intention of creating records of queer history as a group, and taking pride in our lives as we live them today. 

Attendees will hear a reading of two trans-centered zines, one of which will have been written by the lecturer, followed by a brief history of queer and trans self-publishing. The rest of the workshop will be dedicated to a demonstration on how to create an eight-page mini-zine, followed by ample time for attendees to write and create their own zines, as well as to explore examples for inspiration. 

About the Facilitator

Atlas A. Lee-Reid (ze/zir) is a queer and genderfluid visual artist and academic based in Brooklyn, NY. Zir autobiographical zines are available in Bluestockings Cooperative in Manhattan and Wasted Ink Distro in Phoenix, AZ, and has been featured in festivals such as Sounds About Riso 2022 and Queer Arts Winterfest. Ze is currently pursuing a master’s degree from NYU Gallatin studying queer and trans semiotics and self-expression. While not pursuing opportunities in the visual arts, Atlas spends zir time performing with TRANScend Sings all-trans choir. Visit www.atlasleereid.com.

This program is organized by Atlas A Lee-Reid as part of the 2023 Circa: Queer Histories Festival, presented by One Institute.