Before the Binary: Gender, Colonialism and the Politics of Identity

This session will explore the history of gender diversity across different cultures, focusing on examples from Africa, Asia, and the Americas that demonstrate how understandings of sex and gender have not always been limited to a binary framework.

While representations and experiences of gender diversity vary across these regions and are not homogeneous, the session will highlight key historical examples of identities and social roles that existed outside of binary understandings of gender. Our presentation, examining historical understandings of gender across Africa, Asia, and the Americas, will also share the stories of people and communities challenging gender expectations in colonised nations.

The session will conclude with a panel discussion, providing an opportunity for reflection, dialogue, and deeper exploration of the themes discussed throughout the presentation. We have three brilliant panellists confirmed:

Darren Pritchard

Darren Pritchard is a Mancunian director, producer and choreographer whose 25-year career spans fashion, theatre, television and the performing arts. He is the founder of Ghetto Fabulous and Liberation Pride, creating bold platforms that champion QTBIPOC talent, culture and visibility. As Co-Artistic Director of Black Gold Arts, his work amplifies underrepresented voices while promoting economic empowerment and joy within QTBIPOC communities.

Lucky Roy Singh

Lucky Roy Singh is an award-winning Manchester-based activist, presenter, producer, author and drag artist, and the UK’s first openly Sikh Indian drag queen. As a founding member and Mother of House of Spice, they mentor LGBTQ+ South Asian, Middle Eastern and North African artists while creating opportunities for marginalised performers. Their work brings together cultural expression, anti-racism, queer history, survivor advocacy and community building.

Hussain Chaudhry

Hussain Chaudhry is a Manchester-based community builder and creative producer with more than a decade of experience supporting grassroots communities, social justice and community development. His work has included leadership with Rainbow Noir, supporting LGBTQ+ people of colour in Greater Manchester, alongside community engagement, strategy, communications and development. He also brings his experience to cultural and community projects that champion LGBTQ+ people of colour and South Asian representation.