Do it Fat (and Queer)

+ Screw the NYT, Trans Wikipedia Editors Preserving Truth, and Nonbinary Sundance Creators

Hi Friends!

It’s good to see you. What a couple of fucking weeks, am I right?

Before we get into it, a bit of housekeeping:

I will no longer be sharing links from the New York Times. Some of you likely already know why. For the rest, Erin Reed said it best:

Read the full piece below, or check out her bluesky thread on the topic.

NYT Hypocrisy: Outlet Criticizes Trump's Attacks On Trans People That They Helped Usher In

But the nail in the coffin for me was its cowardly change in headline when reporting on the horrific loss of one of our trans siblings. I don’t want to flash bang you with the bad stuff, so if you want to know more, you can read a bit about it here.

I refuse to drive traffic (even the little I do) to a platform that treats our community this way. Feel free to drop a comment if you have an opinion on this.

Okay, serious time over. Let’s get silly with it.

I’m trying to shake it out and lean into the goof, but lately it feels like I’m scraping the bottom of the barrel when it comes to joy. Which is why we can’t hold ourselves back from anything that might bring a bit of light to our lives.

You’ve probably heard of “do it scared.” Now, I present to you: do it fat.

I’m not the first person to use the phrase “do it fat.” But in an age of Ozempic and other highly advertised weight loss drugs, it needs to be screamed louder and louder.

As a fat person raised as a woman, I’m accustomed to being hyperaware of my body, especially in situations that are unfamiliar, highly active, or make me extra visible. This gives me an additional mental hurdle to overcome when trying out things like new gyms, different forms of exercise, and especially any fun, silly, goofy movements—like dance.

I never saw myself as a dancer of any variety. But then this gorgeous aerialist literally swung into my life and helped me learn that I deserve to feel good in my body— because of it, not in spite of it.

Want to hear more? Catch me after the news.

Events & Opportunities

'Crushing' - Monologue show includes queer Bay Area writers on love and break-ups

The Bayfron Theater in San Francisco’s Fort Manson will cost live monologue show “Crushing,” featuring queer and nonbinary writers on 2/27 and 2/28.

Arts & Culture

Sundance’s trans and nonbinary creators share their vision for Hollywood’s future

An excellent read on the trans stories featured at Sundance and how trans creators are shaping cinema behind the scenes.

On Trans Issues, Wikipedia is a Bulwark Against Disinformation

Trans and nonbinary Wikipedia editors are showing up to maintain accurate and unbiased entries on trans issues and anti-trans legislation.

New therapeutic trend helps women and nonbinary people release anger

In Chicago, RageHER offers a space for women and nonbinary folks to express their rage.

Isabelle Frances McGuire, The Avant-Garde Artist

A feature on nonbinary Chicago artist Isabelle Frances McGuire.

Pop Artist Corook Fights Back Against Anti-LGBTQ+ Sentiment With New Song

It’s a banger track, I recommend it!

Legislation & Research

Massachusetts’ 2nd largest city is now a sanctuary for trans people after “toxic” culture accusation

Worchester, MA passed a resolution to become a sanctuary city in a 9-2 vote.

LGBTQ+ Groups Announce Boycott of U.S. Events in Protest of Anti-Transgender Policies

LGBTQ+ Rights Orgs such as Eagle Canada are standing with trans folks with their dollars.

Transgender and Nonbinary People Take Trump to Court Over Passport Restrictions

Seven people have filed a federal lawsuit.

'Free From Hate': Danvers Schools Support Immigrant, LGBT, Transgender Students

The Superintendent of Danvers, MA issued a statement in support of immigrant, queer, trans, and nonbinary students.

Colorado Introduces Bill Requiring Death Certificates to Reflect the Deceased’s Gender Identity

If passed, this could prevent trans people from being misgendered in death.

Montana Bill Defining Sex Ruled Unconstitutional

Via Erin in the Morning.

Sports

Madison Roller Derby reaffirms support for trans and non-binary athletes

The league refuses to change their rules to comply with executive orders.

Women and Nonbinary Climb Night

In Boston, FitRec’s monthly climb night is free for folks of all skill levels.

Good Reads

What Does It Mean to Be Sapphic? Understanding the Unique Identity

A lovely little piece on the ‘expansive nature of sapphic identity’ across genders.

What’s in a name? For our trans and nonbinary neighbors, everything.

In Montgomery County, Philadelphia, Noah Marlier will continue to host pro bono virtual name change clinics.

(P.S. I know it’s super frustrating when things are pay-walled. Please know that by supporting the newsletter, you’re helping a queer nonbinary writer keep the lights on. If you really want to check out the interview but can’t afford the subscription for the month, shoot me an email at a.m.weissinger@proton.me and we can work something out.)

CW: Mentions of disordered eating and fatphobia.