Description

The aim of this roundtable was to curate a conversation that explored the uniqueness and normativity of LGBTQ+ faculty experiences; consider ways that embodied perspectives might positively and negatively affect pedagogy; addresses the rapidly changing ways identities, current discourse and practices affect teaching; and reflect upon the ways that deep political & theological divides are challenging to queer theory and theology. Additionally, the conversation is designed to help determine how to attend to self-care and determine vocational aspirations in unsafe contexts.

On the first evening Anna Deshawn, an Ambie award-winning podcast creator and digital radio host of E3 Radio, facilitated a conversation about the impact they are making in the queer community through their podcast Queer News. Anna Deshawn uses their digital platform to curate conversations at the intersection faith and LGBTQ+ identity. DJ Caryn Robinson created an atmosphere of queer joy by playing music by LGBTQ+ artists and allies.

The second day of the gathering was a time to reflect upon the ways LGBTQ+ professors, as embodied professionals enter spaces (some safe, some more challenging) to do the work they are called to do. The leaders grounded the first half of this conversation with two questions: “Who is the LGBTQ+ self that teaches?” and “What pedagogy heirlooms can you share?” These questions invited participants into an exploration of the uniqueness and normativity of LGBTQ+ faculty experiences. Dr. Danie Buhuro facilitated the second half of the session which centered embodiment and self-care. The day ended with an excursion to Lips Chicago to explore teaching in drag. The final session opened with an in depth debrief on what participants learned from the drag performers about embodiment and teaching. Dr. Stephanie Crumpton closed with a ritual to help the participants reclaim rest in their lives as faculty persons.

All participants are eligible to receive a $5,000 non-competitive small grant.

Description

• To address the rapidly changing ways identities, current discourse and practices affect teaching
• To reflect upon the ways that deep political & theological divides are challenging to queer theory and theology
• To determine how to attend to self-care

Description

• Tenure track, tenured, continuing term, and/or full-time contingency 
• Teaching religion, religious studies, or theology in an accredited college or university in the United States, Puerto Rico, or Canada 
• Identify at LGBTQ+

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