Transgender identities: Fighting for the Margins

A growing awareness of transgender issues has exploded in recent years, especially after the high-profile gender reconstruction surgery of Caitlyn Jenner and popular reality television shows like I Am Jazz. The rising awareness has caused activism both for and against the transgender community, and forces us to question many of the binaries that permeate culture. For the South Atlantic Modern Language Association 90 Conference, held in Birmingham, Al from Nov 2-4, 2018, we are seeking abstracts exploring the conference theme of “Fighters from the Margins: Socio-Political Activists and Their Allies” as expressed through a transgender lens. We are particularly interested in projects that question or redefine gender and transgender identities beyond expectation of binary codes, be it language, media portrayals, online identity, political activism, or historical considerations. Any methodological approach will be considered. By May 25, please submit a 200-400 word abstract, brief bio, and A/V requirements to Dr. John Lamothe, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, at john.lamothe@erau.edu.