Beyond the Binary: Gender Diversity in the Ancient World & a Civil Rights Legacy Rediscovered

We explore the rich and often overlooked history of gender diversity in Ancient Rome and Medieval Europe, uncovering stories of people who lived beyond traditional gender roles. Through historical texts, laws, and cultural narratives, we reveal how these identities were understood, challenged, and remembered across time.And then we get updates from historian Jean-Paul Benowitz’s latest work on civil rights leader W. Miller Barbour, including his new documentary and companion book exploring Barbour’s human rights legacy. We discuss upcoming film screenings, recent recognition in major film festivals, and how Barbour’s story continues to shape conversations on race, dignity, and social justice today.