Desecrated Poppies: A Book Talk with Yaffa

Currently, there are 557 anti-trans bills across 42 states, along with 45 national bills aiming to block trans people from any and all human rights. Additionally, there are 293 anti-Palestinian bills. These bills share many commonalities; they impact far more people than just the targeted identities listed on them and are crafted by the same individuals. They collectively propel us towards fascism. The same trend can be observed with cop cities, anti-abortion bills, and numerous other initiatives propelled forward by white Christian nationalists.

"Desecrated Poppies," written during the eclipse in April 2024 and in anticipation of the November 2024 elections, delves into the intersections of anti-trans and anti-Palestine politics, illustrating how they intertwine with fascism. Through essays and poetry, Yaffa navigates their experiences of these seemingly conflicting identities, both of which are weaponized to advance fascism. "Desecrated Poppies" also explores antidotes to fascism, with a particular focus on cultural work and the imperative to prioritize the most marginalized among us. A world beyond fascism exists, and we hold the pathway forward.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Desecrated Poppies delves into the intersections of anti-trans and anti-Palestine politics, illustrating how they intertwine with fascism. Preorder the book here.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mx. Yaffa is an acclaimed disabled, autistic, trans, queer, Muslim, and indigenous Palestinian individual who has received multiple awards for their transformative work around displacement, decolonization, equity, and centering the lived experiences of individuals most impacted by injustice.
Mx. Yaffa is the Executive Director of Muslim Alliance for Sexual and Gender Diversity (MASGD), as well as the founder of several non-profits and community projects.
Mx. Yaffa is an engineer, death and birthing doula, peer support specialist, consultant, and artist.
Mx. Yaffa is a storyteller and an equity and transformation consultant, having shared their story with over 150,000 audience members at speaking events globally.

SCHEDULE
6:00 pm Welcome to MATTER
7:30 pm Mx. Yaffa shares poems and essays from their collection & talks about fascism & Palestine.
8:00 pm Book signing with Mx. Yaffa

SPACE & ACCESSIBILITY

The Shop at MATTER is wheelchair accessible and has gender-neutral bathrooms. Chairs are provided for all. Masks are required.

Host or Publisher MATTER, Ltd.