Digital Transgender Archive

Voices of Trans Folks in the Upper Midwest

Image of Phillpe CunninghamThe Transgender Oral History Project of the Upper Midwest highlights an often hidden trans population: that of the Midwest. The stories in the collection reflect that there is no single narrative of transgender experience. This project is about collecting history for not only for the University of Minnesota, but for anyone that is interested in hearing the stories of trans people. The Transgender Oral History Project of the Upper Midwest is an ongoing project that serves as a platform for people to share their stories and articulate the sometimes difficult situation of flourishing in their true identity amidst small town cultures and conservative values.

Phillipe Cunningham’s story, for example, highlights the multifaceted nature of identity, specifically the character of sexuality and race. In his interview, Phillipe emphasizes the importance of both sexual and racial representation in all fields, especially academia. Phillipe describes the importance of this point of intersectionality because, as a queer black man, he was one of the few people of color within his community growing up. Phillipe’s difficult experience of isolation has led him to strongly value those individuals who are transparent in their prospective career fields.