Celebrating the first lecture of an ongoing series.

May 27, 2009—Sociologist Arlene Stein delivered the first University of Oregon Sally Miller Gearhart Lecture in Lesbian Studies. Sally Miller Gearhart founded and designed the Women’s Studies Program at San Francisco State University; she is a pioneer in the field of feminist science fiction; and a tireless fighter for progressive causes. Here she is at a dinner sponsored by Center for the Study of Women in Society to celebrate the inauguration of this lecture series, the departmentalization of Women’s and Gender Studies at the University of Oregon, and Sally’s life and work. (l-r Donella-Elizabeth Alston, Coordinator, Ethnic Studies Department; Sally Miller Gearhart; Carol Stabile, Director, CSWS)

Guest Speaker Arlene Stein
Alumni Lounge, Gerlinger Hall, 1468 University Street
Reception to follow

The Department of Women’s and Gender Studies will be celebrating its new status as a department as well as the creation of the Queer Studies minor at this year’s Sally Miller Gearhart Lecture in Lesbian Studies. Arlene Stein will speak about “The Incredibly Shrinking Lesbian World and Other Queer Conundra.”

Stein, an associate professor of sociology at Rutgers University, was formerly associate professor of sociology at the University of Oregon.

Recently, a number of observers have warned of the “emptying out” of the lesbian category, and the decline of lesbian communities. Some blame this presumed decline on the rise of transgender and queer activism and the emergence of a “post-feminist” generation. Stein’s talk will evaluate these claims and discuss the legacy of identity politics today.

The Department of Women’s and Gender Studies is hosting this event with gratitude to the anonymous donor who established the Sally Miller Gearhart Fund to promote and enhance lesbian studies.