Testimonies

Here are my Past Engagements with Photos

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Testimonies:

“I LOVE working with Anunnaki as a facilitator, he knows the material upside down and backward and brings fresh insight and perspective. His lived experiences help a wide range of audiences understand gender and sex open heartedly. Plus he’s got a great presence, versatile presenting style, and is easy to work with. If you get a chance to learn from or work with Anunnaki, I highly recommend you do!”

– Mx. Indra Lucera Esq. from Elephant Circle | May 7, 2022

“I was first introduced to Anunnaki’s work through a workshop with Transmission Ministry Collective in August 2021 titled “Intersex People in Scripture and Society.” After the workshop, I reached out to Anunnaki about being a guest in season 3 of the podcast I host, which is called Broadening the Narrative. On the podcast, Anunnaki spoke about responsibly including the “I” in LGBTQIA+. Anunnaki was easy to talk to and exudes compassion. Our conversation was vulnerable and informative, and I am deeply grateful for Anunnaki.”

– Nicki Pappas from Broadening the Narrative Podcast | September 19, 2021

Dear Mx Anunnaki Ray Marquez,

We hope that you are healthy and doing well in these very strange times…

We reach out to you, as we are founding the first national, volunteer-based, intersex-led organization in Greece and thus we have just started to build Intersex Greece’s official site.

Since almost all of our knowledge comes firstly and mainly from activists like you, your valuable work and resources, we feel -besides most thankful- also obligated to kindly ask for your permissions to republish and translate to greek some very relevant/basic material, plus some infographic/brochure material, from your site

“I met Anunnaki Ray shortly after submitting Gender Identity: The Ultimate Teen Guide, Second Edition to the publishers — as a result the term “endosex,” which he taught me, is not included in the Glossary or anywhere in the book, as it was not on my radar. Subsequently, I sought Anunnaki Ray’s assistance as an author  / educator /student of gender because I was writing anew, and knew my knowledge base was lacking. They welcomed me without judgement for my level of knowledge and gently, kindly guided my words to a more inclusive and believable space. I found their consulting services to be very valuable, and their availability to answer follow-up questions to be stellar. I look forward to a continued working relationship with this wonderful Child of God who has so much more to offer than most of us get to glimpse.”

– Cynthia Winfield – An Educator / Author / Health and Family Coach; whom hired me for consulting services for character development in her book | March, 16, 2021

“I would very much recommend Anunnaki as a mentor. He has really helped me realize my true self as an intersex woman. I’m an intersex person (47XXY) who was assigned wrong at birth as male. I spent most of my life feeling much differently than the male population. Anunnaki has helped me by giving me information and support about where to get physical care and hormone therapy. He helped by introducing me to others who were like me. He was also there for me when I was having difficulties at home and work.  Thank you, Anunnaki”

– From My Mentee since April 2020:  Ashley Andersen |  March, 11, 2021 

Having Anunnaki and James speak at our PFLAG DuPage meeting provided a unique opportunity for our members to learn and ask questions about adding the “I” to LGBTQIA+    Our PFLAG chapter members strive to be educated activists and Anunnaki and James added so much to our knowledge base.   A huge thank you to both of them for taking the time to be and share with us.

– Kristin Shulman of PFLAG DuPage: Private Group Zoom Meeting | January, 17th 2021

From PFLAG National Convention 2019:

Fantastic session. Both speakers identified so many inroads for support and inclusion to the “I” community.  So much education.  My favorite session so far.  Thank you.

Interesting and informative, thoughtful, and sensitive presentation.  I learned so much from you two.  Thank you.

Wow! Outstanding – enlightening – moving – thought-provoking – NECESSARY!!

– 2019 National Convention Workshops  October 27, 2019 |Born Intersex: We Are Human! The Importance of Inclusion | With Mx. Anunnaki Ray Marquez and his husband James Bunce 

I want to thank you Nnaki and James, for a beautiful service today. You were so wonderful both of you, what you had to say and the way you presented. I heard only excellent comments afterwards.  In addition, you might be interested to know that the attendance today was 163. That included 26 visitors and about 20 children. As I’m looking back over the statistics for the last 3 to 5 years, there have never been this many attending a service ever, even at Christmas.  My grandson, who is the same age as James, was busy emailing your links to his sociology professor. The wonder box idea was fantastic. Thanks for suggesting the seahorse dad.  All in all the service exceeded my expectations – which were already pretty high.  Love you all!

– Grace Repass, Worship Leader of Buckman Bridge Unitarian Universalist Church, Jacksonville, Florida |  March 31st, 2019 

Oasis was honored to invite Mx. Anunnaki Ray Marquez to speak after hearing about his advocacy work. During his engaging and informative presentation, he educated us on what it means to be intersex, inspired us as he talked about the challenges he’s overcome as an intersex person, and helped us understand how to be better allies to the intersex community.

We were also deeply moved to hear from Anunnaki’s husband, James, about how their family has grown stronger through Anunnaki’s journey. We are incredibly thankful to both Anunnaki and James for their patience and compassion as they answered our questions.

I highly recommend inviting Anunnaki to speak to your community or organization. I promise…he will make a positive impact.

– Jesse Hudgens, Vice President of Houston Oasis; Houston, Texas | January 13th, 2019

I am very proud to call Mx. Anunnaki Ray Marquez my friend. I was blessed with becoming Anunnaki’s friend many years ago when he was dealing with disability and depression. At a time when his activism wasn’t yet as cultivated as it is now, rather, it was a small burning ember deep inside just waiting for that spark to set it afire. And thankfully that spark finally came, and I have had the pleasure of watching that small fire grow into the firestorm it is today. Anunnaki has faced so many challenges and adversity, but through it all, he has kept pushing for what is right. He is standing up to this world that condemns anyone who is different. He is giving a voice to so many people who suffer in silence. It has been a truly been a sight to behold to watch my friend work hard, fighting for his rights and the rights of others. He had to fight for years just to have his birth certificate reflect his true biological sex as intersex.

I could see the pride beaming from him on the day he received his corrected birth certificate, the very first birth certificate issued in the state of Colorado with the sex, intersex. I am so happy that after all of my friend’s hard work, blood, sweat, and many tears, that he is seeing change happening. Changed that may not have happened if he hadn’t found the courage to speak up and fight for his rights and the rights of others. I am sooooooo proud you, my friend Anunnaki!!! Don’t ever stop, you are truly helping so many and they need you!

– Joycelyn Joanne Rasted, Landers, California: December 18th, 2018 

“Hey Anunnaki: What a pleasure to watch you speak at the TEDx.  I am so moved by your eloquence, your presence, your passion, and your ability to communicate to that audience that WE EXIST!  You have done so much good work, and I am forever grateful that you give me credit for the work I have done as well.  I intend to share your video with many people.  I so appreciate and THANK YOU for being the activist and advocate you are for Intersex people.  Much Love To You!  Tiger”

– Tiger Devore, Ph.D.  One of the world’s leading sex therapist and leading expert and advocate for intersex people | December 6th, 2018

“I would recommend any gender therapist to attend Anunnaki’s training to thoroughly understand the diversity within just the “I” of our LGBTQI+ population. I am now confident I can avoid having my intersex clients be the ones to educate me.”

– Michelle Anderson Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, DMCP at Authentic Self Counseling LLC: Jacksonville, FL | November 6th, 2018

Anunnaki,

I can’t thank you enough for helping me better understand the challenges facing intersex individuals across the U.S. and beyond. I also appreciate your exposing me to the leaders in this field, including you, who are making a significant impact as a growing numbers of people reconceptualize what it means to be intersex.  I just hope I can capture parts of your vision when I speak and write on variations in our human identities and how we express our sexuality.

Tom

– Thomas Serwatka, Ph.D. (Professor Emeritus: Author of Queer Questions, Clear Answers: The Contemporary Debates of Sexual Orientation)   Jacksonville, FL |  September 30th, 2018

From the Founder of PFLAG Jacksonville, FL:

I am sending my endorsement of Mx. Anunnaki Ray Marquez as an educator and advocate of the intersex community.   Having heard him speak at several group events I have seen his dedication to making a difference in the world.  Sharing his own personal story and bringing an awareness of what members of  the intersex community face always, and the harm this has brought to so many whom were harmed at birth to become a sex that was convenient for the doctors and for parents, but the effects this would bring to the child thru the years was not considered. 

Anunnaki’s work with Dr. Jeff Goldhagen and a committee of social workers, educators and other professionals has resulted in the formation of  Partnerships for Child Health: Jax Youth Equality, which will enable parents and members of the LGBT community to find resources on one website, with dedicated doctors and mental health counselors who will go thru training to give a true standard of care.  Having been on this committee with him, I have witnessed his efforts to educate and answer questions.  His sharing of the United Nations Intersex Fact Sheet highlights significant human rights issues faced by intersex individuals has been a valuable resource to share with others. 

Anunnaki has a variety of programs to offer but should always begin with Intersex 101 which is a primer for any individual to develop an understanding. He can share these in person or via webinars. Additionally, Anunnaki provides support, referrals and guidance to intersex individuals, their families and allies.

Hearing Anunnaki as a speaker imparting his knowledge and information will open new doors for so many to make a difference for a community that has been misunderstood for too long. Please consider inviting Anunnaki to share his wealth of knowledge about the unique needs of the Intersex Community with you and your organization.

Sincerely,

– Frieda Saraga: Founder PFLAG of Jacksonville, Florida  | September 13, 2018

I had the pleasure of attending a presentation by Mx. Anunnaki Ray Marquez. Anunnaki shared his personal life experiences as an intersex person and the challenges he has faced with medical and clinical professionals. Additionally, he provided facts, statistics, and educational resources about intersex people.  As a LGBTQI clinician, it is crucial that I understand the unique needs of the intersex community as well as the stigmatization and discrimination they face.
I am grateful to have met Anunnaki. His enthusiasm and devotion to educating others is inspiring.

– Judith Asermely, LCSW – Jacksonville, FL | September 8, 2018

Anunnaki has brought heightened awareness to the unique support, education and advocacy related needs of our Intersex community members.  He has represented PFLAG of Jacksonville in public speaking engagements on both the local and national level.   At the PFLAG National Convention in October of 2017, his presentation “Understanding Intersex: The Moral Imperative of Self-Determination” was powerful and well received.

Anunnaki offers a robust portfolio of presentations appropriate for a variety of audiences which can be further adapted to meet your individual needs.  Intersex 101 offers a thorough overview in an understandable, relatable manner.   How to Become an Intersex Messenger and Ally is a great primer for individuals, businesses, and organizations who wish to be as inclusive a possible.  A full list of presentations Anunnaki offers can be found at his website https://anunnakiray.com/ under the “services provided” link. Presentations can be shared in person or via webinars.  Additionally, Anunnaki provides support, referrals, and guidance to intersex individuals, their families, and allies.   

Please consider inviting Anunnaki to share his wealth of knowledge about the unique needs of the Intersex Community with you and your organization.

Sincerely,

– Ellen Schmitt, President – PFLAG of Jacksonville, FL  | May 22, 2018

“Mx. Anunnaki’s engaging video-conference intersex presentation took us on an incredible journey to begin to understand how we need to be more inclusive of the “I” in LGBTQIA. Mx. Anunnaki’s personal passions and investment on this topic shined as he used his life experiences to enlighten and inform us. Although a video-conference call is not always personable, that wasn’t an issue since he captivated us by offering his wisdom, authentic self and powerful vulnerability during the presentation.”

– Review of Intersex Presentation to PFLAG Rockford, Illinois group  |March 5, 2018

“Mx. Anunnaki’s hour-long presentation was full of valuable information. Using statistics, he relayed that there are just as many intersex individuals as there are redheads! He detailed the many variations in characteristics that make a person intersex, from physical traits to chromosome patterns. He provided that these are separate from sexual orientation and gender identity so we could understand that there’s different factors involved and each person is unique. After defining intersex, we were informed of the medical treatments (or lack thereof) and astonishing discriminations that intersex people experience.

One of my favorite parts of Mx. Anunnaki’s presentation was when he dove into the history of how intersex persons have been treated. I enjoyed learning how previous cultures have celebrated intersexed individuals, like the Egyptians. I also loved how he included beautiful images, like the 16th-century painting titled “The Bearded Woman” to get us to understand the historical aspect of intersex individuals. The research Mx. Anunnaki performed for this presentation is impressive!

Our group appreciated how real and honest Mx. Anunnaki made his presentation. Getting a glimpse into Mx. Anunnaki’s life, from his tragic past experiences and ill-treatment to his current loving family life, brought us closer to understanding him and his message. His perseverance and dedication to educate people on this topic is inspiring. He brings so much hope and uplifting messages for the changes that need to happen for the intersex community.

We deeply appreciate Mx. Anunnaki’s video-conference presentation and the fact sheet handout he provided (we can add it to our group’s resources). After attending this presentation, I know PFLAG Rockford sees the world differently. We are empowered with information and awareness on intersex individuals so we can be more inclusive and make changes within our community.”

–Amber Kresol, PFLAG Rockford, Illinois, Board Member | March, 5, 2018

“At a PFLAG meeting, Mx. Anunnaki Ray gave a presentation, “Born Intersex in the USA: My Story and the Value of Inclusion”, it was a heartfelt, educational and impactful experience for me.  He addressed the issues around Intersex, the good, the bad, and the ugly with love and care. He spoke with clarity, humor, and respect. At one point I became emotional and cried.  His message of responsibly including the “I” in the LGBTQ letters prompted PFLAG of Jacksonville to make him Director of Intersex/Gender Education. Mx. Anunnaki Ray’s honesty while sharing his experience was a powerful influence in motivating me to become more involved in promoting Intersex Awareness.”

 -Elizabeth Garcia  Jacksonville, Florida |  Jan. 19, 2017

“I have had the privilege to hear Mx. Anunnaki Ray give two presentations, “Listen with Care: Building Bridges of Understanding”, as well as a follow up small group presentation during an adult educational class. His talks brought about a broad understanding of what it means to be born intersex. He led with his heart and spoke from a reality few of us can even imagine about being born intersex. Hearing his personal story as well as the detailed education has brought about my own personal growth and a shared advocacy. Mx. Anunnaki Ray’s pure love and desire for truth make for a powerfully motivating speaker whose words will continue challenge and influence Intersex awareness and changes for years to come. Every listening ear is sure to be influenced.”

-Colleen Goodwin, RN, MHA Jacksonville Florida | Oct. 10, 2017  

“Mx. Anunnaki Ray is deeply dedicated to educating the word on Intersex.  He is driven to deliver a message that will open eyes, and help all those in need of support. He truly inspires and is making a dent in past perceptions.”

– Tiescha Thomasson, mother of Joey, an XY intersex girl and founder of Intersex Support for Parents, a Facebook Group.  Jacksonville Florida |  October 26, 2017

“Anunnaki is one of the most passionate, informed, and motivational speakers I have ever met. His ability to speak his truth and educate at the same time will leave you motivated to take action. He is especially skilled at helping the audience feel connected and unafraid to ask questions. His gentle and assertive way of connecting with his audience helps deliver his powerful message of hope. If you are lucky enough to hear him speak, your life will be changed.”

– Kristie Overstreet Ph.D., LPCC, LMHC, CST Huntington Beach, CA |  November 1, 2017 

~.V.~