About TIC

The idea for TIC was born from Free 2 Be, the University of Vermont's Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, and Ally (GLBTQA) organization, a Student Government Association recognized club entirely run by UVM students. Free 2 Be is now the Queer Student Union. Founded in 2002 and running uninterrupted until 2019, the Translating Identity Conference (TIC) was one of New England’s largest conference focused on transgender identities, issues, and intersections. TIC is a one-day event with sessions throughout the day geared towards folks of all levels of education and inclusion - the conference is a safe space for trans folks and allies to come together to learn and build community. We create affinity spaces, partner with trans-owned and trans-friendly businesses to host vendors, and offer ways to connect with the community throughout the weekend. This conference is open to the public and always free.

TIC's Guiding Values

  • All are welcome.  This is a trans, nonbinary, genderqueer, agender, and gender-expansive centered space.
  • There is no one way to be queer, no right way, and no such thing as "not queer enough" or "too queer".
  • We use the power we have individually and collectively to center the voices and experiences of those who have less power in our queer/trans communities.
  • We commit to unlearning oppressive behaviors and worldviews, and to growing and learning from the mistakes we make. We give and receive feedback with grace.