Gender Continuum - Part 1 of Gender/Orientation Series™

Illusion vs. Reality: A New Worldview

Gender is at the very core of our being—the starting point of who we are, who we think we are, and who we and others think we should be. The Gender Continuum deconstructs the illusion of binary gender, and gives participants access to conceptualizing a new paradigm for human relatedness.

The body, gender, and orientation are distinguished as three separate aspects of experience, clarifying common misconceptions about the source of harassment and discrimination. Innovative visual models, reflective exercises, and video clips highlight the consequences of binary thinking, and reveal the limits of current language.

The concepts of transgender and intersex are critically examined, demonstrating how new knowledge is upending conventional notions of biological sex and gender. Participants have an opportunity to explore how illogical rules of gender impact their self-expression, challenging taken-for-granted assumptions about what is natural, and what is possible. This course includes the latest multidisciplinary research, and engages participants in interactive dialogue to powerfully reveal the mastery gender has in our lives.

Workshop Duration

This workshop contains 8 hours of in-class time.* Provides 8 continuing education units (CEUs) to nursing and mental health professionals, and 8 master plan points (MPPs) to Miami-Dade County Public School teachers and counselors.

* This workshop may be divided into smaller portions for special conferences and other purposes. Please call YES Institute at 305-663-7195 for more information.

Register for this course here.

Quick links:

• Parent Resource Videos

• Gender Resource Guide

“I’ve been trying so hard to understand why I can’t fit into the gender box people expect. For the first time, I feel free to be myself.” - High school student

“We have all been shoved into one box--M or F--all of our lives. The same thing is happening now with our students. YES opened more possibilities than I imagined for starting conversations on these topics that will really make a difference.” - Teacher, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, NY

“I see how gender limits what we allow ourselves and others to do. I have a totally new perspective! I will share what I learned with people who were not lucky enough to have this experience.” - Middle school student

“I clearly see that none of the labels we use on a daily basis fits perfectly for any individual. In starting Camp Aranu’tiq, this is a valuable lesson. It will allow me to celebrate the wonderful display of diversity, and to honor people however they identify.” - Nick Teich, Founder and President, Camp Aranu’tiq

“My heart has been transformed and my way of thinking has been literally turned upside down. I think I can now share the knowledge I gained to help others connect with our shared humanity. Gender affects everyone.” - Linda Lathroum, graduate student, Florida International University

“This is the most thought-provoking course I have ever been in. You opened my eyes to so many things I didn’t even know I didn’t know!” - Middle school student

“YES completely revolutionized my views on gender! I see the critical importance of using language that is inclusive, and that challenges binary notions.” - Dr. Charisse Gencyuz, University of Michigan Medical School

“Many foster care youth want to go through a gender transition. Before this weekend I had no idea how to be supportive. I’m so relieved! Now I know I won’t just be one more person these kids can’t trust.” - Case Manager, Family Resource Center, Miami, FL

“Opened up a whole new perspective for me, and made me reflect on everything I thought I knew.” - Teresa Lyles, LCSW