Idaho State University Anderson Center to host readings by poet, activist Ely Shipley Nov. 14

The Idaho State University Anderson Gender Resource Center will present poet and activist Ely Shipley in recognition of Transgender Day of Remembrance at 7 p.m. Nov. 14 in the Pond Student Union Wood River Room.

Shipley will present a free reading performance.

Shipley is a poet and activist who focuses on gender norms, politics and the world we live in. As a poet, he is known for his engaging performances and captivating messages. His first book, "Boy with Flowers," won the 2007 Barrow Street Press book awarded by Carl Phillips and the Thom Gunn Award. His poems also won the Western Humanities Review Award in Poetry judged by Edward Hirsch and the Virginia Faulkner Award from Prairies Schooner.

Shipley received his doctorate from the University of Utah in literature and creative writing and poetry. Shipley now lives in New York City and teaches at Baruch College, City University of New York.

Transgender Day of Remembrance was founded in 1988 by Gwendolyn Ann Smith, a transgendered graphic designer, columnist and activist, to memorialize the murder of Rita Hester in Allston, Mass. Traditionally, Transgender Day of Remembrance occurs on Nov. 20, as a day to remember those who have been killed as a result of transphobia, or the hatred and fear of transgendered and gender non-conforming individuals.

Since its introduction to mainstream society, Transgender Day of Remembrance has evolved from a web-based project started by Smith into an international day of action by honoring and remembering individuals who have fallen victim to hate. Currently, the event has spread to more than 185 cities in the United States and more than 20 countries. 

For more information about the event, contact the Anderson Center at 282-2805. For more information on Shipley, visit his website at http://www.elyshipley.com/.

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