Over the past decade or so, the emergence of terms like “non-binary” and expansions of the meaning of “queer sexuality,” have indicated a kind of loosening up of social values and prohibitions around non-normative expressions of embodiment. At the same time, however, new legislation around the country and globally seeks to prevent young people from accessing trans affirmative care and to limit sex education. Concerns about the widespread adoption of trans and non-binary forms of embodiment has initiated a panic of sorts among some conservatives, religious leaders and “family first” groups.

Poet Meg Fernandes and cultural critic Jack Halberstam will discuss gender identification and sexual styles, while sharing new ways of talking about identity, the body, obedience and disobedience, community and its limits, fiction and fantasy, love, life and desire with the audience. Fernandes will also read from her new book of poems, I Do Everything I’m Told (2023). Moderated by Professor Irene Kacandes, Dartmouth College.

This event is part of a series called “Humanities for Humans”, presented in partnership with the Walter de Gruyter Foundation (Berlin). Across eight sessions — four in-person and four virtual — the series brings people together to help generate a better understanding of what the humanities are and what role they can play in today’s complex world.

Date and Time: Wednesday, October 18, 2023 – 6:30-8:00 PM

Location: 1014 Fifth Avenue, NY, NY 10028

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