Professional Development & Training in Sex and Gender Liberation

After many years teaching Women’s and Gender Studies in colleges and universities, I have created professional development workshops for people and organizations facing challenges related to the rapidly-changing landscape of gender and sexuality in the U.S.

These workshops meet a need among well-intentioned folks who need a space to ask questions, voice curiosities, and practice evolving their language in order to make sure their organizations are welcoming places for people of diverse genders and sexualities. We tackle issues of power, oppression, and liberation by highlighting creative resistance as a way of empowering participants to make the world a better place.

Workshops range from 1 hour to multi-day sessions. Goals and objectives for the trainings are collaboratively tailored to my clients’ organizational and individual needs. These workshops offer a mix of challenge and support for each person in the room. I approach the group with warmth and humor. Interactive activities and small-group discussions ensure that everyone is invited to be present in their own experiences while they are learning and growing as a team.

Participants in Alternate ROOTS "Sex and Gender Liberation" Professional Development Session created an altar to ground us in love and fierce creativity. 

Participants in Alternate ROOTS "Sex and Gender Liberation" Professional Development Session created an altar to ground us in love and fierce creativity. 

Workshop offered as part of the 2017 Brushy Fork Institute at Berea College in Kentucky: Diverse Genders & Sexualities Strengthen the Relationship Economy. 

Workshop offered as part of the 2017 Brushy Fork Institute at Berea College in Kentucky: Diverse Genders & Sexualities Strengthen the Relationship Economy. 

Nicole presented material in an inclusive, accessible, and nonthreatening way, helping to create a safe space for people to ask question, exchange ideas, and share experiences. Even when folks asked questions that were intentionally provocative, off topic, or outright offensive, Nicole responded thoughtfully and nonjudgmentally.

Months after Nicole’s presentation, I heard people recalling terminology and definitions they learned from her, and they were discussing those terms and definitions in a way that demonstrated that they were both knowledgeable and respectful of the LGBTQIA+ community. To me, that is evidence as to how powerful and empowering Nicole is as a presenter and facilitator.
— Tracey Thomas, DrPH, CHES

Read about my experience delivering professional development to the staff of Alternate ROOTS in this blog post: NOT JUST FOR QUEERS: EXPANDING POSSIBILITIES OF GENDER AND SEXUAL EXPRESSION MAKES US ALL MORE FREE!

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