“Bottom Surgery: An Incomplete History” is a groundbreaking zine that explores the evolution of gender affirming surgeries through the lens of those who have undergone or considered these procedures. This unique collection, compiled by the organizers offers an intimate and personal look at a topic often discussed only in clinical terms.
The zine traces the long history of genital modification across cultures. Focusing primarily on the period before the 1990s, when such surgeries became more widely available, this zine presents a tapestry of patient experiences, from early forms of gender expression alignment through to the development of formalized concepts of trans identity and surgical inventions and treatment. Through firsthand accounts, readers will gain insight into how individuals discovered information about gender-affirming surgeries, often in times when such knowledge was scarce or stigmatized.
These personal narratives illuminate the profound impact that learning about surgical options had on patients’ understanding of their own gender journeys and medical transitions. By centering the voices of trans individuals, the zine offers a crucial perspective often missing from medical literature.
This lecture will take place online via Zoom on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, from 6-7:30 p.m.
This collaborative project, guided by Hester Tittmann, Elijah Hart, Andrea Castro, and Olivia Hnilicka, provides a vital resource for understanding the historical context of gender-affirming surgeries and their significance in the lives of trans individuals. It serves as both an educational tool and a testament to the resilience and diversity of trans experiences.
This program is suitable for all ages.
Participants
Hester Tittmann is a white, trans communications designer and artist. They are always chasing after aesthetic excellence and looking for a reason to dig through cultural histories to better contextualize their work. In 2018, Hester founded Rabbit Rabbit Studio, a branding and communications design studio that works with artists, architects, nonprofits and small businesses. Before starting Rabbit Rabbit, Hester worked for Rebar, in San Francisco, with public artist Matthew Passmore, and for Macarthur Fellow Walter Hood as Hood Design Studio’s Marketing Director and public art coordinator in Oakland, Calif.
Andrea Castro is a queer non-binary Filipinx, community builder, artist and writer who joined Rabbit Rabbit Studio in 2019. Andrea’s experience prior to design was in the non-profit and education sectors. Andrea’s work combines impactful visuals, a strong background in project management, and a design ethic that is rooted in accessibility and equity. They seek to learn from, grow with, and cultivate relationships with BI&POC creatives and strategists, and they’re especially interested in designing accessible and resonant visuals to support social justice organizations.
Olivia Hnilicka is a dedicated healthcare professional with a wealth of six years of experience in the field, specializing in harm reduction, HIV prevention, HCV screening and treatment, patient advocacy, insurance and healthcare navigation, trauma- informed care, and pharmacy technician expertise. Known for building strong relationships with community partners and conducting effective outreach to diverse communities. Adept at navigating complex health systems and seamlessly coordinating between various stakeholders to ensure comprehensive and compassionate care for all. Passionate about making a positive impact on healthcare accessibility and patient well-being.
Elijah Hart is a Research Project Manager in the Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). Their research focuses on improving health outcomes for queer and trans people with a special interest in building systems that support mutual aid and peer services in healthcare arenas.
This reading is organized by Hester Tittmann, Elijah Hart, Andrea Castro, and Olivia Hnilicka as part Circa: Queer Histories Festival 2024, presented by One Institute.