My essay “In Defense of Trans[gressive] Horror” will be featured in the inaugural issue of Haunting zine, which will be released at the upcoming A Haunting in Industry City event next month!

This piece means so much to me and I am very grateful that it found a home in Haunting. As a trans horror fan and writer, I have always been fascinated by the films Sleepaway Camp and The Silence of the Lambs, but, being a fan of those films is impossible without also being constantly reminded how divisive they have been for the trans community because of the way their killers feed into harmful, albeit popular, anti-trans stereotypes. In this essay, I analyze the specific tropes that each film reinforces, and explore how trans viewers can find empowerment in the monstrosity of Angela Baker and Jame Gumb.

I will unfortunately be upstate on vacation during the event, so I want as many people as possible to go and show their support to ensure that Industry City can stay haunted year after year!

You can show your support by RSVPing, or by following A Haunting NYC on Instagram!

As per the event listing: A Haunting in Industry City is an art market centered around the horror genre. This October, we’ll have 20 vendors selling their wares, everything from art to apparel to jewelry to trinkets. All types of horror themed handmade goods will be available!

Attendees can also look forward to a costume contest and a raffle for a basket of delightfully horrible prizes! We’re going to have a bit of everything, so make sure to RSVP and stop by!

The first 50 RSVPs to arrive will be given a Haunting zine that includes peek a boo bingo and a spooky little photo card!