2024 Workshops & Seminars

Today, many on the far right of the political spectrum as well as many within the "Evangelical Christian" community are claiming that the actions to end discrimination against marginalized communities violate their religious freedom. The extreme "Christian" right wants a theocracy.

This session is designed to empower parents and guardians with the tools and understanding they need to support their LGBTQ+ children. This workshop focuses on allyship, emphasizing that affirming your child's identity is a journey grounded in love, respect, and open communication. It breaks down the essential components of affirmation into an easy-to-remember acronym, making the process more accessible and less daunting. Allyship Made Simple Affirming our LGBTQ+ children might feel overwhelming, especially if we're unfamiliar with the community's challenges and terminology. However, this session will demystify the process, showing that being a supportive ally doesn't require one to be an expert on LGBTQ+ issues. Instead, it’s about fostering an environment of unconditional love, listening without judgment, and educating one's self on the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals. Building Blocks of Support Through interactive discussions, real-life examples, and practical advice, attendees shall learn how to effectively communicate with their children about their identity, navigate any challenges that may arise, and create a safe, supportive space where their child feels valued and understood. The ABCDEF framework offers clear steps that parents can take to ensure their child knows they are loved for who they are. Connecting with Other Parents One of the session's highlights is the opportunity to connect with other parents and guardians who are on similar journeys. Sharing experiences and challenges in a supportive environment helps to build a community of allies who can learn from and uplift each other. They’ll leave the session not only with a better understanding of how to support their children but also with a network of like-minded individuals committed to making the world a more inclusive place. Empowerment through Knowledge Affirming LGBTQ+ children also means educating one's self about the unique experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals. This session will provide resources and suggestions for further learning, empowering attendees to become stronger advocates for their children and the broader LGBTQ+ community. Fostering an Inclusive Future By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped with the confidence and knowledge to affirm their LGBTQ+ children effectively. They'll understand that their support plays a crucial role in their child's well-being and happiness, and they'll feel ready to take on the role of allies with pride and purpose. Affirming LGBTQ+ child truly isn't as hard as we all think—it's about love, understanding, and taking those first steps toward a more inclusive and affirming future. This session is a must-attend for any parent or guardian who wants to ensure their child feels loved, supported, and accepted just as they are. Join us at the Keystone Conference and take the first steps toward becoming the ally your child needs and deserves.

Sahffi Lynne (they/she) is a full-time musician and vocal coach with over 15+ years of experience offering their music and teachings as medicine to illuminate your connection to your own divine song. As a non-binary person with a trans son, Sahffi is honored to work with Trans and Non-Binary people to help them find a singing and speaking voice they feel good about. During this workshop, participants will be guided to find their authentic and resonant singing voice using Sahffi’s own "Vocal Ladder" method of teaching. Sahffi will explain how our bodies work like instruments and how our instruments are more than just our physical bodies; they are also our emotional, mental, energetic, and spiritual bodies as well. As singers, we use all these “bodies” as “instruments” to reach the top of the ladder, “Expression.”

With the deluge of conflicting and confusing information (and disinformation)available, it's hard for families of trans and gender-diverse youth to know where to turn. This workshop is designed to give families an overview of what gender affirming care looks like, how to access care, and how to best support youth and young adults in being their happiest and healthiest selves.

This session will be a short exploration of the intersections of my journey toward authenticity and the tools I picked up along the way. What tools are in my belt? Where did I find them? and How do I use them?

Young transgender and gender expansive Pennsylvanians often have unique and challenging experiences at school. Adopting effective policies, as well as ensuring their successful implementation, can be crucial for trans youth. This session will educate participants on the latest developments with local, state, and federal laws that have direct impact on trans youth. Topics covered will include student athletics, private facility use, name and presentation changes at schools, and college applications. Participants will gain valuable skills to use in their home communities in the push toward trans inclusion. We will also examine several recent case studies of anti-trans battles in Pennsylvania school districts.

Join us for a transformative experience at the Parent Healing, Support, and Celebration Circle, a sacred space designed exclusively for the parents of trans kids. This circle is a sanctuary where you can exhale, knowing you are in the company of those who truly understand the unique journey you're on. In this safe and empowering environment, we will celebrate your journey as a parent, recognizing the strength, love, and resilience that have carried you and your child this far. Through shared stories of parenting joys, victories, and hard-won wisdom, we will delve into the strategies and insights that have helped you thrive in today’s challenging world. This is a space to be free, fearless, and fully yourself, surrounded by others who are walking similar paths. As we come together, you'll find not just support, but also rejuvenation. This circle is designed to refuel your spirit, refill your heart, and renew your sense of purpose. You'll leave with a deep sense of connection, inspired and energized, ready to return home with a full heart and a renewed commitment to your family. Your children will feel the love and positivity you've absorbed, and they too will benefit from the healing and joy you've experienced. This is more than just a gathering; it's the beginning of a community. We want you to leave eager to return and to bring others into this circle of love and support. Together, we can create a powerful network of parents dedicated to lifting each other up as we navigate this beautiful and complex journey of raising trans children. Come as you are. Leave as you were always meant to be—rejuvenated, empowered, and surrounded by a community that celebrates and supports you every step of the way.

There are several factors to consider when choosing to tell others about your transgender/non-binary child. First, what are your goals? What do you want them to feel and to understand about your child? Do they need to know at all? How can you help your child to feel safe and loved through this transition in your family and broader community? We will go over some basic recommendations to keep in mind, but also invite you to ask your own questions and share your personal experiences with telling your children - your fears, successes, disasters, and everything in between.

When your child discloses that they're exploring or have discovered their gender identity and it's not what you thought it was, it can feel as though they proverbial rug has been pulled out from under you. Join us for this interactive workshop to share your fears and triumphs while also getting some of your questions answered about all of the "what-ifs" in this rollercoaster experience.

Welcome to the Youth Healing, Celebration & Support Circle, a vibrant and safe space created just for you—trans youth who are ready to embrace who you are and celebrate your journey. This is your time to shine, to be seen, heard, and supported in a community that understands and values every part of who you are. In this circle, you’ll find a place where you can truly be yourself, free from judgment or fear. Together, we will celebrate the uniqueness and strength that each of you brings to the world. We’ll share stories of your triumphs, your joys, and the moments that make you proud of who you are. This is a space to explore what it means to thrive as a trans youth in today’s world, surrounded by peers who get it. This isn’t just about support—it’s about empowerment. Our time together will be filled with activities that help you connect with others, build confidence, and recognize the incredible resilience you possess. You’ll leave this circle feeling not only supported but celebrated, with a renewed sense of who you are and the courage to continue being your authentic self. We want you to walk away from this experience feeling rejuvenated and inspired, ready to take on the world with the knowledge that you are never alone on this journey. When you return home, the love, strength, and positivity you’ve found here will radiate out, touching those around you and reminding you of the power you hold within. This circle is more than just a moment; it’s the beginning of a community. A place where you can return again and again, bringing friends along for the journey. We are here to celebrate you, support you, and help you heal. Come be a part of something extraordinary—because you deserve nothing less.