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Connecting Through Queer Academia: Highlights from Three Trans+ Conferences
I’ve been very lucky and honoured to share conference spaces and stages with so many amazing queer and trans academics in the last few months. I wanted to share my experiences of three conferences, the first three of many to come I am sure! Beyond Reflections: Trans+ Conference 15th May, Bournemouth University I was privileged…
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Exploring Crip Theory: Insights from Our Hybrid Symposium
The symposium “The Intersections of Sociology with Crip Theory, Critical Disability Studies, and Mad Studies” was held on June 11, led by PhD students Robin Skyer, Fraedan Mastrantonio, and the author. It featured keynote speakers, panel discussions, and creative workshops, fostering connection among participants interested in these critical fields.
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Redefining Success: Impact Beyond Academia
The author reflects on their role in academia, prioritizing individual impact and creating safe spaces for trans+ Autistic individuals. They acknowledge tensions between personal outcomes and institutional expectations while emphasizing the importance of community and self-growth. Amidst challenges, they seek to navigate their PhD journey with curiosity and resilience.
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The Importance of Community Support at Pride Events
The Portsmouth Pride parade featured a giant trans pride flag carried by a diverse group of supporters. Amidst challenging weather, the author felt emotional, appreciating their PhD supervisor Steven’s support despite not being trans. This moment served as a reminder of the love and solidarity present for the trans community.
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Exploring Trans and Autistic Healthcare Inequity
Katie Munday, a doctoral researcher at the University of Portsmouth, focuses on healthcare inequities faced by trans autistic individuals. Their participatory action research aims to address these issues through community collaboration, informed by their personal and professional experiences. The research aspires to offer new insights and enhance accessibility to essential healthcare services.
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Intersections of Sociology with Crip Theory and Critical Disability Studies and Mad Studies Symposium
On June 11, 2025, the University of Southampton will host a hybrid symposium for PGR and PhD scholars interested in Sociology, Crip Theory, Critical Disability Studies, and Mad Studies. Featuring keynote speakers and panel discussions, the event will include live BSL interpretation and provide lunch for in-person attendees. Registration is required.
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Navigating Academic Challenges for Collective Freedom
The author seeks a liberating academic environment focused on collective growth and empowerment, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various advocacy efforts, particularly for trans and Autistic individuals. They critique the pressures within academia that stifle true advocacy and community, vowing to continue their work rooted in love and connection despite challenges.
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Finding Strength in Community: A Trans+ Autistic Researcher’s Journey
The author discusses the challenges faced by trans and Autistic individuals amidst societal hate, particularly in the US and UK. They express exhaustion from the violence seen online and its impact on their research and social life. Despite this, they find strength in their supportive community and ongoing activist work.
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The Isolation of PhD Studies: A Neurodivergent Perspective
The writer reflects on their challenging PhD journey, grappling with emotional and administrative hurdles while transitioning from a long-term role supporting neurodivergent youth. They express frustration over the lack of clarity in obtaining help, navigating academia’s structures, and reconciling personal trauma with the demands of research. It’s isolating yet deeply personal.
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An outline of my PhD on transgender Autistic experiences
I’m very excited to start my PhD studentship at University of Portsmouth funded by South Coastal Doctoral Training Partnership. I shall be in the school of psychology, doing my own research on: Exploring health and social care inequities for transgender and gender diverse Autistic adults living in the UK. I am really happy to say…