Nish Newton

Community Engagement Associate for Social Change | Idaho Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence

Pronouns: they/them

Nish Newton is a Black, queer, trans survivor of sexual & domestic violence among a myriad of other identities & lived experiences. They use multi-disciplinary & un-disciplinary approaches to mobilizing social change, and their distinct approaches have led them to facilitate social justice spaces alongside Sonya Renee Taylor, adrienne maree brown, Dr. Angela Davis, and other beacons of liberation. Right now, Nish's soulwork is assisting Black trans youth through transitions to gender-affirmation. When they aren't organizing in their community, Nish spends time outdoors with their beloved wife, writing poetry, or finding innovative ways to be a menace to colonial oppression.

Presentations from Facing Race 2024

Amplifying Black Trans Aliveness

Together, we will expand our knowledge and accountability to the experiences of Black trans people. Between examples from our history, real-time examples and issues, engaging conversations, and self-reflection activities, we will re-establish our role(s) in movements for racial and gender justice.

This session is about the protection, support, and thriving of people who are immeasurably impacted by historic and systemic violence. "Aliveness" is the category for this space, and we will collectively re-imagine what is needed to create holistic care for Black trans people. This session is not a naïve utopian dream nor a space for hollow performativism; it is a praxis of Radical Imagination and an intentional space for us to live into a better, safer world. All participants are welcome—regardless of their identities, scope of work, or prerequisite knowledge—as long as they are invested in fostering a community where Black trans people are liberated.

Session Objectives:
-Participants will learn about eight dimensions of aliveness and relate those dimensions to Black trans communities.
-Participants will engage in activities to set one goal for Black trans aliveness.
-Participants will develop an accountability system to sustain their role(s) in Black trans aliveness.

Speakers: Nish Newton