14. From the Trenches of the Deep South: Advancing Conceptions of Allyhood

• In Event: 408 - Visual Media Poster Presentation

Abstract

How do we teach students in the classroom to be allies to GSM identified people? At the least, how do we touch upon the oppression and discrimination faced by GSM identified people in society in the college classroom? If allyhood and advocacy are attainable goals, how should we treat the concept of ally with a diverse student body, in which not only have GSM students internalized their oppressions, but our students of color, especially women, have internalized the sexism and racism they face? In this poster presentation, I present my background and interest in the subjects of GSM issues and allyhood. I then present my critique of the allyhood literature and argument for why sociology should be included. My data stems from an interdisciplinary research project conducted with students at a midsized University in the Deep South in a more rural area. I present preliminary descriptive data from this study. I end with conclusions supported by this data. The allyhood literature needs the inclusion of sociology because of its ability not only to conceptualize the fluidity and diversity of gender and sexual identities, but also our understanding of intersectional identities and use of the sociological perspective to promote critical thinking in terms of where our beliefs stem from. Lastly, I highlight the importance of attention to GSM issues in the South and rural areas, where few resources exist.

Author

• Trina S. Smith, Georgia Southern University