Disrupting Gender-Based Violence: Practice and Policy Solutions

1 Course Unit

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive global problem, with recent studies suggesting that rates of GBV are increasing. GBV represents a broad constellation of interpersonal harms that are typically understood as rooted in patriarchal forces, although they can happen to individuals of all genders. This class will focus on five types of GBV: sexual violence, intimate partner violence, violence against children, economic violence, and state violence. We will read academic, personal, organizational, and governmental articles, as well as engage with mixed media like videos. Each student will pick a population to focus on during the semester, about which they will develop a portfolio of knowledge. Population choices may be based on age, gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity, geography, or any other identity. Students are encouraged to think domestically or globally, depending on their own interests. Every other week, students will be responsible for curating a reading list and writing a brief report to delve deeper into how violence manifests in their population. This course will take an active-learning approach, with a heavy emphasis on in-class group work and participation. The course is open to all graduate and undergraduate students; students across disciplines will work together to find clinical, organizational, and political solutions to GBV. Spring 1 Course Unit