Julia de Bres

Guest writer

Julia de Bres is a senior lecturer in linguistics in the School of Humanities, Media and Creative Communication at Massey University - Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa (Wellington).

Trans rights supporters gather at Albert Park in March 2023 (Photo: Anna Rawhiti-Connell)

What access to puberty blockers means for trans young people and their whānau

The Ministry of Health has delayed the release of its evidence brief on puberty blockers. While we wait, Julia de Bres speaks to those with firsthand experience.

By Julia de Bres | 19th April, 2024

Illustration: Julia de Bres

What linguistics does for Aotearoa

If Victoria University close its linguistics programme, it won’t just be students and staff who suffer the consequences.

By Julia de Bres | 15th June, 2023

Giving trans kids a sporting chance

Giving trans kids a sporting chance

Sports can be hugely beneficial for children, but there are still many barriers for trans kids wanting to play.

By Julia de Bres | 22nd March, 2023

Image: Supplied

Storm clouds and rainbows – what it’s really like to parent a trans child

There can be a darkness in trans family stories – but it's not the darkness others imagine.

By Julia de Bres | 14th December, 2022

(Photo: Getty Images; Additional design: The Spinoff)

How more inclusive language could improve Aotearoa for everyone

'Everyone stands to gain when we acknowledge the mana of the people we speak to.'

By Julia de Bres | 12th May, 2021

Photo: Getty Images

The battle for gender-inclusive language in healthcare

For gender-diverse people and their families, going to the hospital can feel like walking into a linguistic minefield.

By Julia de Bres | 9th April, 2021