HVTF Closing Discussion on Saturday, November 23rd
Dating, Disclosure & Finding Your Support Network: A Whole-Group Conversation

Discussion Facilitator:

Rowan Reyes, MSW
Pronouns: they/them/theirs

&

Robyn Schlesinger, JD
Pronouns: she/her/hers

Discussion Description: Violence against transgender, gender non-conforming and non-binary people is an epidemic in our country, leaving many community members feeling vulnerable and afraid for their safety in common situations like dating and finding friendships. This conversation will feature a facilitated discussion on feelings, concerns, and solutions/supports based on an open, whole-group dialogue.

Discussion Format: Facilitators will pass a microphone around to attendees who would like to share feelings, experiences & concerns around dating and disclosure, and facilitate a conversation around finding support for these concerns. The disclosure component of this conversation can include coming out to romantic/sexual partners, family members, friends, etc. 

Facilitator Bio:

Rowan Reyes (they/them) is a queer, non-binary trans social justice educator. They are Senior Director of Community Education and Social Change and Coordinator of Outreach to LGBTQ+ Communities at the Center for Safety & Change. Rowan is also a parent, a poet, and a facilitator of queer spirituality rituals and embodiment workshops. They are proud to co-facilitate Gender Joy, a group for caregivers of young gender-expansive kids offered through the Rockland County Pride Center.

Robyn Schlesinger is a trans woman attorney and consultant who works with individuals and organizations to help advance important social objectives.  She is a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community in higher education.  Robyn has served in numerous senior leadership positions at colleges, universities and major nonprofits in the US and abroad, focusing in the areas of development, marketing communications and legal compliance.   Robyn is a member of the New York and California State Bars, received her undergraduate degree from Harvard College and her JD from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law.  She is currently a doctoral candidate at Manhattanville College in Purchase, NY.