TG Retreat 2000
By Tamika Gonzales, Transgender Health Educator,
from the September 2000 issue.

The first ever transgender retreat was a smashing success! Ten excited girls set off to historic Pescadero for two days. We stayed in three magnificent cottages at Estancia del Mar overlooking the Pigeon Point Lighthouse along the beautiful San Mateo County coast.

On the first day, the girls treated themselves to an array of barbecue in the late afternoon. Miss Savannah, our resident expert in Luau, spearheaded the wonderful event. After a hearty dinner, we did our first workshop, an icebreaker-introduction which proved to be an enjoyable way to get to know one another. We each picked a secret sister and made personal mailboxes to give one another special messages throughout the retreat. The initial workshops helped personalize the environment and create a safe and friendly atmosphere.

We woke up the next morning to a breathtaking sunrise. The aroma of fresh coffee being brewed by Monique was in the air. Anna showed off her talent in cooking eggs. After our power breakfast, we proceeded to the front yard to do our next workshop, Move Your Ass!, which was a good physical workout. This workshop helped the participants increase their awareness and knowledge about safer sex, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. It also helped reinforce and encourage safer behaviors through informed decision-making.

All warmed up and ready to go, we then set off to the Fun-tastic Boardwalk to play beach volleyball, stroll on the beach, shop, enjoy the rides, and savor a late lunch together. Back at the cottages, we decided to cook a sumptuous dinner, with Crystal preparing her specialty: beefsteak Filipino style! Before retiring, we did another workshop, Charade, in a spirit of friendly competition. The activity stimulated camaraderie, bonding, and sisterhood. Afterward, we gathered around and revealed our secret sister and gave each other tokens of appreciation, words of encouragements, and thanks. The next morning, cooperation was in full force in cleaning up the place. We took pictures, shared hugs and wished each other well, having discovered more about ourselves and one another.

Overall, it was a healthy retreat. Healthy for our bodies, minds-, as well as our spirits.

If you are interested in learning more about A&PIWC's Metamorphosis Program for transgender persons, please contact Nikki Calma at 415.292.3420 x348.



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