When Sun Tzu wrote The Art of War more than 2,500 years ago, he probably didn’t anticipate that one day, a bunch of queer and trans folks would be quoting him to plan protest strategy, outmaneuver bigots, and navigate identity in a world that still tries to erase us. But here we are, because survival, for us, has always been an art form.
War, after all, isn’t just fought with weapons. Sometimes it’s fought with words. Sometimes it’s legislation. Sometimes, it’s bathroom bills and healthcare bans. And sometimes, it’s simply daring to exist out loud when the world wants you silent.
That’s why we’re launching a new series: “Trans Tactics: Sun Tzu’s Guide to Defending Our Lives.”
Over the next six weeks, we’re breaking down eight of the most iconic strategies from The Art of War (affiliate link) and showing how trans people and allies can apply them in today’s political and cultural battlefield. Whether you’re an activist, a parent, a teacher, or just trying to make it through another damn day, this series is built to equip you with wisdom, clarity, and power.
Because yes, we’re tired. But we’re also brilliant.
Why The Art of War?
Sun Tzu’s legendary treatise isn’t about brute force. It’s about thinking smarter than your enemy. It’s about survival through observation, planning, and psychological insight. It serves as a guide for anyone who has faced an unjust battle and managed to emerge victorious.
In a world where anti-trans politicians and bad-faith media keep shifting tactics, we need every tool we can get. Sun Tzu never used the word “nonbinary,” but he absolutely knew the value of fluidity. He taught us that the strongest force is often the one that’s underestimated. And if that statement is not a metaphor related to transgender issues, I don’t know what is.
Here’s What’s Coming:
Each article in the series will unpack a key lesson from The Art of War and show how it applies to trans advocacy today:
- 1. “Know Yourself, Know Your Enemy” Understand your identity—and the tactics used against you. Coming May 28
- 2. “Winning Without Fighting” Change minds and systems through storytelling, art, and resilience. Coming June 3
- 3. “Appear Strong or Weak” Learn how to master perception, control the narrative, and stay safe. Coming June 7
- 4. “Strategic Deception” Reframe the debate, expose hypocrisy, and use satire like a blade. Coming June 10
- 5. “Opportunity in Chaos” Turn backlash into momentum—and use crises to organize. Coming June 14
- 6. “Commanding All Fronts” Balance grassroots power with institutional influence. Coming June 17
- 7. “Irritating the Enemy” Weaponize joy, defiance, and visibility. Coming June 21
- 8. “Plan Every Move” Think long-term. Strategize for what’s next—not just what’s now. Coming June 24
We’ll close out the series with a full recap and a downloadable resource you can use for education, organizing, or just reminding yourself you’re not alone.
Who’s This Series For?
- Trans people trying to understand the forces working against them
- Allies looking for smarter ways to help
- Advocates who want to level up their strategy
- Community leaders, educators, organizers, and writers
- And anyone who believes our existence isn’t up for debate, but our strategy can always evolve
We’re not promoting violence. We’re promoting vigilance, clarity, and intentional resistance. This campaign is about fighting smarter, not louder. Sun Tzu famously stated, “In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.”
How to Follow Along
- Bookmark the #TransTactics series tag
- Subscribe to our newsletter for alerts
- Follow @TransVitae on social media for drop announcements and extras
- Share the series with your networks, especially in states where this fight is life-or-death
You’ll find memes, breakdowns, quotes, and maybe a little shade in the weeks ahead. But most of all, you’ll find strategy and the tools to stay alive, stay defiant, and stay proud.
Our approach has always been strategic. We’ve always been survivors. And now, we’re playing for the long game.
