School of Social Welfare center will host 2023 LGBTQ Research Symposium

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas School of Social Welfare Center for LGBTQ+ Research and Advocacy will host its annual LGBTQ Research Symposium next month. This virtual event will take place June 1-2, offering live sessions from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“I’m so excited to continue offering this symposium through the CLRA at KU,” said Meg Paceley, associate professor and co-director of the Center for LGBTQ+ Research and Advocacy. “Providing this resource in an accessible online format allows us to collaborate and network with more queer scholars and reach practitioners and advocates who need research to promote equity and justice in their work.”

This year’s program builds on traditions established over the past 10 years, providing researchers and advocates opportunities to present their work, discuss challenges and opportunities, and network with others conducting LGBTQ+ research across disciplines. This year’s theme of “Queering Community & Kinship” emphasizes constructing and maintaining queer connections through the continuation of LGBTQ+ narratives and research.

The fully online, digital format of the 2023 symposium presents unique and creative opportunities to enhance accessibility and integrate digital humanities ideas and concepts. The format of presentations will include live presentations, panel discussions, roundtables, workshops and innovative technological presentations. Pre-recorded presentations, posters and creative submissions will also be available on demand during the conference. The opportunity to earn continuing education units (CEUs) is available for many of these sessions.

“While this conference has its roots in the Midwest, it is wonderful to be able to virtually convene such an incredible group of scholars, advocates and community partners from across the country,” said Briana McGeough, assistant professor and center co-director. “I’m continually inspired by the ways that LGBTQ individuals show up to support each other, and it’s an honor to witness a microcosm of that support during the symposium.”

The conference will feature three awards for Outstanding Community Organization, Outstanding Emerging Scholar Paper and Outstanding Student Paper. Awardees will be announced during the keynote session June 1. Award nomination materials should be emailed to LGBTQResearch@ku.edu by May 12 to be considered. Find more event, registration and award details visit the 2023 LBGTQ Research Symposium website.