Understanding sexual orientation and gender identity 1 (WLL 12)

  • Day and time: Wednesday 14:00 - 15:30
    Weekly
  • Length of course: 1 term. Autumn (10 Weeks)
  • Number of places: 12
  • Start date: 09 October 2024
  • Description:

    Despite the perception that the '60s and '70s were the era of sexual liberation and 'free-love', in reality anything outside of 'straight' sex and gender conformity was still largely taboo. Today, gender identity, young people and the interaction between transgender women and society receive almost daily media coverage in some publications, often triggering 'moral outrage'. Gender identity has become a highly politicised ‘wedge issue'. 'Freedom of speech', 'sincerely held beliefs', 'women’s rights' and 'safeguarding children' are now frequently used to legitimise hurtful words, behaviours and regressive policies towards LGBTQ people. In this class, I will explore sexuality and identity from an experiential and affirmative perspective, looking at their intersectionality and reflecting on the current-day similarities with the 'othering' of minorities in the 1930's and 1980's. WARNING, this will be a highly participative class, openly discussing a range of what some might consider to be 'sensitive' topics including politics, sex, genitalia, etc.

  • Format: Seminar

  • Tutor: Mia C
  • I started researching sexual orientation and gender identity after retiring and now have a much better understanding of the evolving science, perspectives and politics in this arena.


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