Gateway to Political Life

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

Topic: Queer Activism and LGBTQ Cultures Whether it is ACT UP’s emotionally charged political funerals at the White House or landmark supreme court decisions like Lawrence v. Texas, queer activism and culture has permeated every facet of public life. With our current moment seeing growing cultural and political tension and an uncertain future for queer and trans communities, this seminar explores the way U.S. politics has shaped and been shaped by LGBTQ culture and political organizing. Throughout, the class will consider the historical context and political flashpoints that inform and constitute LGBTQ identity from an intersectional perspective. Leveraging our location in the nation's capitol, students will explore the myriad forms queer politics can take including fine art, political protest, legislative and judicial processes, and civil society activism. Students will take up a blend of cultural and political theory attentive to race, disability, gender, and sexuality to critically examine public policy, political theater, and the breaking news of the day affecting queer and trans people. The class offers students a range of primary source material to consider and investigate from canonical early 20th century American literature and activist-produced pamphlets of the 1990s to contemporary documentary films, commercial advertisements, and music videos. The class offers students the opportunity to apply their critical thinking skills and practice both academic and public facing writing. There will be multiple options for the final project which will be tailored to students’ academic and career interests. While the course is open to students of all levels, it especially serves and is designed for first year students.