(Left) James Ward-Lee, chair of the Trans and Non-Binary Staff Network, and Fox Fisher
Fox Fisher, co-founder of My Genderation film project
David Ruebain, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Culture, Equality and Inclusion)
Our latest Inclusive Sussex: In Conversation event on 15 October welcomed artist, filmmaker and Sussex alum Fox Fisher to campus. During the event, introduced by David Ruebain, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Culture, Equality and Inclusion) and hosted by James Ward-Lee, chair of the Trans and Non-Binary Staff Network, Fox showcased several powerful short films from My Genderation, a film project co-founded by Fox which documents the lives and experiences of transgender and non-binary people. Following the screening, Fox talked about a number of themes highlighted in the films and took questions and reflections from the audience of staff and students.
During the discussion with James, Fox spoke about the importance of showcasing diverse experiences through film and how that can foster understanding and connection. They emphasised the power of storytelling in bridging generational gaps within the queer community, using examples from their films that feature both younger and older LGBTQ+ individuals. Speaking about one of the films which featured a child and an older person in conversation, Fox said: “There was almost 60 years between them. And yet there was this real connection where they just really understood each other on a deep level, it's really powerful. It’s got millions of views on Facebook as well. And it just goes to show that something simple like that could just help change hearts and minds.”
Fox also spoke about their time at Sussex during which they campaigned to abolish Section 28, a law that prohibited teachers from informing children about LGBTQ+ people and same-sex relationships. They reflected on the strength of the LGBTQ+ community at Sussex and the importance of activism in challenging unjust laws, encouraging students and staff to listen to and support each other, build inclusive spaces and consider how they can take creative approaches to activism. Fox said: “There was playfulness as well, and I think that's what we have to remember. You can still have humour, and you can still get your points across. You don't have to get arrested!”
Taking questions and comments from the audience, Fox also talked about the practical aspects of entering the film industry as a trans creator. They shared their journey of navigating the industry, encouraging aspiring filmmakers to be proactive, seek support, and not be deterred by initial barriers. Fox also spoke about representation of trans joy in media and the importance of reaching wider audiences with stories that reflect the full spectrum of trans experiences. Fox said: “A lot of the stories are around the time of turmoil and struggling - and it is a really important part of someone's journey. But of course, we want to see all types of representation and I think it shouldn't be the only thing people are seeing.”
The event underscored the role of allyship, community building, advocacy, and creative storytelling in advancing trans rights and representation, with Fox emphasising their sense of hope, built on foundations of support and solidarity.
Professor David Ruebain, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Culture, Equality and Inclusion) said: “It was fantastic to welcome Fox to campus to view some of the powerful films from My Genderation and discuss some of their themes. The films were moving and honest, shining a light on the joys and challenges experienced by transgender and non-binary people of all generations and identities. Thank you to the Trans and Non-Binary Staff Network for hosting this wonderful event.”
About the event series
Our ‘Inclusive Sussex: In Conversation with...’ event series supports our Inclusive Sussex strategy by exploring issues of liberation, equality, diversity and justice with voices from all walks of life, bringing their expertise and lived experiences to the fore.
Sussex has a proud history of welcoming staff and students from the widest range of backgrounds and from all over the world, and in working to create a truly inclusive community that values diversity of identity, background, belief, thought, discipline and method. We continue to strive for Sussex to be a leading example of good practice in advancing equality, diversity and inclusion and a place which welcomes rigorous discussion and debate and where everyone can thrive.
Upcoming ‘Inclusive Sussex: In Conversation with...’ events will be available on the Staff Hub.