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Explore April Ashley's journey as one of the first to undergo gender reassignment surgery, a Vogue model, and a campaigner, showcased by Homotopia. Discuss the impact, representation, and challenges faced in telling transgender stories within the museum setting.
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Working in collaboration to tell the history and stories of the trans community
April’s Story • Born George Jamieson in Liverpool • One of the first people in the world to undergo gender reassignment surgery • Vogue model and actress • Campaigner for trans issues • MBE for services to the transgender community
Responses • “An excellent exhibition. I sincerely hope it helps to change people’s attitudes and that transgender people can be accepted simply for who they are. We are human after all” • “Disgusted that a trans-sexual has so much coverage when no Noel Chavasse exhibition – shameful!” • “Appreciated inclusive cultural representation - not so much the overt cheerleader for "LGBT" agenda”
Positives • Strengthened positive relationship with Homotopia (potential for future) • Developed partnerships – LGBT groups, Merseyside Police, Hate Crime Forum etc. • Increased representation and diversity • Challenged prejudice and discrimination • Increased profile of MOL within LGBT community • Increased diversity of visitors
Pitfalls and lessons learned • Appropriate language and use of correct pronouns • Build in time for 3rd parties to feedback on text • Toolkit • Who has final decision? • Didn’t acquire anything for the museum’s collection • Challenging – small organisation ‘v’ large organisation • Did April’s story overpower the story of the trans community? • No qualitative visitor research • Power and ownership • Flexibility
Discussion • How much say should museums have working in collaboration? Can we truly be democratic? • By working in collaboration are we really telling the whole story?