Do you remember the first time you were taught how to “be a man” or “act more ladylike”? Do you recall moments of permission where you got to break free from the pressures of your gender? Everyone experiences gender differently, which can cause confusion when the gender of others challenges our own understanding. By exploring our own histories with gender, we can open ourselves up to being curious about the experiences of others. In this conversation, participants will be invited to reflect on and share the ways gender was taught to them, moments they challenged gender expectations, and ways they live in their gender today.

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Facilitator Eric Braman (they/them) is a writer, theatre maker, educator, and consultant based in Springfield. As an artist they explore themes of masculinity, mental health, queer possibility, and personal history through micromoment observations and natural metaphor. Their writing has been published by High Shelf Press, Moon Tide Press, Qu Literary Magazine, and other publications. In 2024 they released their debut poetry collection, Bury Me in Cherry Blossoms (Cirque Press). Eric’s written and performance work has been seen on stages across the United States including Ghostlight Theatre Ensemble (Chicago), Queer Theatre Kalamazoo, Oregon Contemporary Theatre, and Bigfoot Regional Poetry Slam. Eric is a cofounder and consultant with Bring Consulting, supporting artists, makers, and those who want to feel invigorated in their work to use creativity as a force for change. Learn more at ericbraman.com and bringconsulting.org.