06/21/2023
From the SCA DEIB Officer:
Folks,
I take absolutely no pleasure in sharing this; however, the safety of our members who are impacted by these anti-drag/Trans legislations making their way through state houses is paramount.
Thank you Acharya Margavati Bai Mewadi for doing the work to craft this Safety guide for Transgender and Nonbinary individuals who are traveling to public events.
Please note: This is accurate as of today, June 21st, and things on this front will continue to evolve and change, so please stay informed using the link provided at the end.
By Meridies DEIB officer Acharya Margavati Bai Mewadi and approved by SCA legal for distribution.
The United States is currently going through a very uncertain and hostile period for LGBTQ+ people, but in particular, for Transgender and Nonbinary people, especially those who choose to wear clothing that doesn’t match their assigned gender.
The SCA has been, and continues to be, a place where gender expression and the exploration of gender expression is welcomed and encouraged. But we realize that this is in conflict with many states, such as Tennessee and Florida, that have passed laws prohibiting free gender expression. We want to offer a guide to our membership that helps them navigate this and know where the SCA can protect them and how they can best protect themselves.
As of the writing of this document, Tennessee’s law has been struck down by the courts, but it has not been repealed. Public opinion is mixed, and it’s important to take into account the fact that people in local areas might not be as educated or informed as your local group.
What can the SCA legally do to protect its membership?
Much of the legislation that has been proposed or passed prohibits drag performances, but is vague enough that it’s open to wide interpretation. As a result, our limitations as an organization extend to our private events only. In the context of an event, it is possible to dress in the way that you prefer, as part of our efforts as an organization to educate through the re-creation of pre-16th century history and culture. Many of our members prefer to dress in clothing that does not match their perceived gender presentation, for a wide variety of reasons, and our events are places where we can continue to include this.
Other events, such as demos, public meetings, and places where we invite the general public to participate, are not protected. It is heartbreaking, but you will be exposed to potential reporting or public opinion (which we all know is very unpredictable), which we as a group cannot protect you from.
Which events can I be my authentic self at in places where this is under threat?
Private events on private property should be safe. Events at places like universities or other locations which are private but open to the public are dependent on the policies of that location and the contract signed by your group when reserving the site. Events using shared public spaces, like public parks, parades, etc, are not protected. Contact the event steward or hosting group seneschal if you want to know the particulars, or if you don’t feel comfortable doing this, contact the kingdom DEIB officer, who will be happy to find that information for you.
How can I protect myself outside of SCA events (such as traveling to and from events, etc)?
This is honestly up to you and your own comfort level, but in states where your protections are being contested or removed, it is likely that you will have to make a difficult choice between your historical clothes, your own clothes, or an option that lets you move through the modern world safely.
Regardless of your decision, it is recommended to travel with someone you trust, or even with a group of people, so that you aren’t isolated. Follow the buddy system! In the event that you do find yourself in a conflict, your buddy can help make sure you’re removed from the situation or that support can be called.
Make sure that someone knows where you’re going, when you plan to leave, and when you plan to arrive, and if possible, a general sense of the route you plan to take. Check in with that person when you arrive, if you can. And then repeat as you travel home, or if you leave the event site for any reason.
In which states is it still legal for me to be my authentic self, or dress in garb that does not match my perceived gender presentation?
A full list of current and proposed legislation, by state, can be found here:
As anti-drag legislation sweeps the nation, a look at where each state stands on drag bans and LGBTQ+ expression
