“The Book of Saris” community art project to encourage conversation between transgender, religious communities
Saris – from an unused root meaning to castrate; a eunuch; by implication, valet (especially of the female apartments), thus, a minister of state: chamberlain, eunuch, officer.
The project’s creator, Mad(E), invites the community into what will surely be an enlightening and moving experience. Following a talk by a member of the spiritual congregation, individuals will be invited to write anonymously in the tome, transcribing their gender experience. These stories and perspectives will be compiled into a profound text that will be archived in an online gallery.
“I’m trying to raise the profile for this event because I think it’s heart work, which is the only thing that can bridge this divide of fear and misunderstanding between transgender people and some Christian denominations,” says Mad(E).
Though this space is a sacred one, it is not necessary to be religious to participate. The goal is understanding, a bridge between the wider community and those they don’t understand, or even worse, demonize. Those from all walks of faith are also welcome, bringing with them their knowledge and religious texts, as long as it’s an affirming philosophy.
The only thing needed is an open mind and a willingness to listen and share. This project is not centered around one perspective, but around learning about many different perspectives and the similarities that tie us together. The home for these stories, a large, intricate tome, is representative of the weight and importance they carry. Religious rhetoric is also used to bridge the gap- they are hearing their own language spoken back to them.
The overall project consists of six phases. The first through third phases involve talking to church leadership, preparing the congregation, and planning the experience. The fourth phase is the actual event where participants gather for meaningful conversation and recording of stories. Following there will be reflection and aftercare. Finally, all of the stories will be archived on the website.
The ultimate goal is to increase the safety of trans people here in Kentucky.
“A lot of people may not know they’ve met a trans person, and putting a face to those names gives real-world examples of who they are,.” Mad(E) says.
This also gives the LGBTQIA+ community a chance to meet more friendly and accepting people who support and care about them. This can lower the temperature around the state for people who feel like they aren’t safe to be their true selves in their communities. Mad(E) is talking to their neighbors, their families, their leaders- making Kentucky a place of belonging, not fear.
She says, “In some spaces, unfortunately, we cannot advocate for ourselves as well as cis-people can advocate for us, and there is safety in numbers,.” she said.
This event will hopefully be the first of many. Through honesty and vulnerability, the divide in our state can slowly mend. Churches from all over the state are being asked to host these events, educating their congregation on the interpretations of gender and gender expansiveness in sacred texts.
Contributors to the text are being asked to share their wisdom and truths as a living, public document. Please reach out to Mad(E) if you can volunteer or participate. She is looking for people to aid in guiding the conversations and help create a safe space for those involved. You can learn more about the project at https://bookofsaris.com/.
Event time and place:
August 10, 2024
4 p.m.
First Unitarian Church
809 S. 4th Street, Louisville KY
