Before Gender: Lost stories from trans history 1850-1950

I’m delighted to share with you Before Gender, a groundbreaking new history of trans people by author and activist Eli Erlick.

In an age of mass anxiety around gender identity, this book challenges the pervasive idea that trans identities are a ‘new’ phenomenon. It unearths a rich history — one that has been systematically lost, forgotten or destroyed.

These stories don’t just recover lost histories — they also illuminate a path forwards. By learning from the lives and struggles of trans individuals across time, we can build a more inclusive and understanding future.