Research Guides: Transgender LibGuide: Primary Sources

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LGBTQ Terminology: Do's and Don'ts

Please keep in mind that some resources, especially historical documents or opinion pieces, may use different and potentially offensive language when dealing with issues of race and/or queer themes.

Terminology such as "transsexual," "transvestite," and "homosexual" are offensive to today's audience, but may be part of either a source you are reviewing or search terms you may need to use.

Regarding best practices and alternatives in regards to proper terminology, this guide can be a good place to start: GLAAD Media Reference Guide

2015 U.S. Transgender Survey Report

U.S. Transgender Survey Report
The largest survey of transgender people ever conducted, with data broken down into specifics regarding geography and ethnicity.

An Introduction to Transgender People - Courtesy of the National Center for Transgender Equality

Transgender Lives: Your Stories

Transgender Lives: Your Stories
"As part of a series of editorials about transgender experiences, we are featuring personal stories that reflect the strength, diversity and challenges of the community."
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In conjunction with the New York Times.

Special Collections/Archives

The Tretter Collection
Contains "over 3,000 linear feet of material about the GLBT experience. It includes published material, organizational records, personal manuscripts, informational files, films, music, textiles, posters, and other items."
The Lesbian Herstory Archives
Largest collection of materials about lesbians and their history and communities. Located in Brooklyn, but website has digital collections.
Quatrefoil Library
Minneapolis based LGBTQ special library - collections are browseable, but you need to be a member if you want to take books out of the library.
University of Victoria Transgender Archive
From the University of Victoria,"actively acquiring documents, rare publications, and memorabilia of persons and organizations that have worked for the betterment of trans, gender non-binary, and two-spirit people."

The Trans 100

The Trans 100
An annual list of 100 inspiring trans Americans who are visible within their communities. Years 2012-2015 currently available.