Black Feminisms and Sex/uality Studies
Topic Summary:
Black feminism is a social and political movement that highlights the multidimensional aspects of oppression among Black women and femmes in the US and other countries. It differs from mainstream feminism because it centers the lived experiences of Black women and aims to understand the issues that impact their health and wellness due to their intersecting marginalized identities. In this summer session theme, “Black Feminisms and Sex/uality Studies”, we will explore the foundational concepts of Black feminism(s), Black feminist methodologies, and envision the future of Black feminism in sex/uality studies. Through readings, videos, reflection, and discussion, session attendees will critically examine multifaceted Black feminisms and explore the writings of Black women and femmes, both past and present.
See the syllabus here!
Facilitator:
Dr. Shemeka Thorpe, PhD (she/her) is a sexuality researcher and educator. She identifies as a Black queer woman from the South and a #HotGirlScientist. She is an Assistant Professor in Health Promotion at the University of Kentucky. Shemeka's research focuses on the sexual well-being of Black women using sex-positive frameworks and Black feminisms. She is passionate about Making Research Relevant for Black communities through translational science and the use of social media. Her work has been published in the Journal of Sex Research and Archives of Sexual Behavior as well as Essence, Cosmo, The New York Times, and Elite Daily.
Dates, Times & Structure:
Tuesdays 1-3pm ET, May 21st-July 2nd, 2024. The summer session is entirely online. There will be weekly meetings with facilitated discussion using Zoom. Before each meeting, there will be materials for you to read/watch, and these are primarily academic. Please ensure you have time and energy to commit to all or most meetings, readings in advance of meetings, and discussion (spoken or messaged) during meetings before you apply :)
Cost: Free!
Funded by Dr. Sari van Anders' Canada 150 Research Chair in Social Neuroendocrinology, Sexuality, & Gender/Sex.
How to Apply!
Applications are now closed, thank you! Check back next year!