WALES’ youngest mayor is to have their first book released later this month, which is described as an “introductory manifesto to trans and non-binary equality”.

“Don't Ask About My Genitals”, written by Cllr Owen Hurcum, who is also the first non-binary person to become mayor of a European city, will be available to purchase from May 31.

Cllr Hurcum, who will step down as mayor of Bangor following this week’s council elections, was elected to the city’s top civic post in 2020, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, did not take on the role until the following year.

They hope that, while the book does not cover every aspect of the trans and non-binary community, it will leave readers more knowledgeable and supportive.

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They said: “’Don’t Ask About My Genitals’ is part introduction to our fabulous community, part commentary on our lived experiences in a binary world and what that means for us, part guide on ways that allies can help our community in the battle for equality.

“And it is also part my story, presented here to help other young genderqueer and non-binary people who might otherwise think they are all alone.”

Cllr Hurcum is an LGBTQ+ activist with many years’ experience discussing such topics on various panels.

They are a leading activist and advocate for the non-binary and LGBTQ+ community in Wales.

They were also a primary organizer of Bangor’s first Pride event in 2019, and took part in the Wales Wide Virtual Pride that followed in 2020.

They are also currently on the board of editors for Wales’s first LGBTQ+ magazine (“LGBTQymru”), the first issue of which was published in February 2021, and were named on Pride Cymru’s 2020 Pinc List as one of their rising stars among the most influential LGBTQ+ individuals in Wales.

In March, Cllr Hurcum announced they would not stand for re-election as mayor after receiving an “alternative offer I simply couldn’t refuse”, which involves building up a new home on a boat.

'Don't Ask About My Genitals' is published on May 31 via Black Bee Books.