Navigating Change in Uncertain Times: Experiences of Trans and Queer Center(Ed) Diversity Workers

Abstract: As institutions in the SACSA region continue to face an onslaught of legislation that targets diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, as well as trans and queer (TQ) rights, it is critical that leaders consider how to support those laboring in these precarious areas. Using portraiture methodology, this paper centers on two TQ center(ed) diversity workers—those tasked with serving TQ communities—as they navigated these uncertain times. Findings revealed how their practice within private institutions still felt unstable, together with how they faced sentiments of burned through and reported their relationships with colleagues/supervisors. Informed by a liberatory consciousness framework, we offer insights for practice in these sociopolitical realities.