July 15, 2021
On June 29th, the the Yale African American Affinity Group, LGBTQ Affinity Group, and Working Women’s Network had the pleasure of hosting a book discussion with mother of five, social activist, beauty entrepreneur, and author Jodie Patterson.
Via a virtual fireside chat, Jodie Patterson provided an exploration of identity, gender, race, and authenticity. Jodie was candid about why she decided to write a memoir, how she came up with the name of her memoir, her parenting style and focus on building community through humanity and activism, and how she makes time for herself. Jodie also offered parenting advice and tips on how to support the black, trans, and queer community. Jodie is currently working on her third book, which will focus on genderless mothering.
In addition to raffling of copies of the book to the Yale community, copies of Jodie’s adult and children’s books were also donated to the Boys & Girls Club of New Haven (pictured above) and New Haven Pride Center.
More Information About Jodie Patterson:
In 2009, Jodie Patterson had her world turned upside down when her determined toddler, Penelope, revealed, “Mama, I’m not a girl. I am a boy.” The Pattersons are a tribe of unapologetic Black matriarchs, scholars, financiers, Southern activists, artists, musicians, and disruptors, but with Penelope’s revelation, Jodie realized her existing definition of family wasn’t wide enough for her child’s needs.
Mom, I’m Not A Girl: Raising a Transgender Child | Cosmopolitan - https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=Si5kAnLyKeg&t=443s
The Bold World: A Memoir of Family and Transformation - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/551563/the-bold-world-by-jodie-…
Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/611926/born-ready-by-jodie-patt…