Hope and Joy in Queer and Trans Lives (FNDS 3602)

Hope and joy are important tools, particularly for groups that experience oppression and violence.

This course does not shy away from the more difficult dimensions of queer and trans lives. 

But our focus is centrally and emphatically on the ways that queer, trans, and other sexually and gender-diverse people produce hope, joy, healing, pleasure, and community. Perspectives of queer and trans people of color are integral to the course. The material is appropriate for students of all levels of preparation, including those with little or no prior knowledge of LGBTQ+ issues.

This course covers topics in the disciplines of Sociology, Anthropology, Women’s & Gender Studies.
 

Who should take this course?

All students are welcome to take this course! The course might speak in a special way to students who feel tired or discouraged and could use an infusion of hope into their studies.

More about this course

Course number: FNDS 3602

Number of Credits: 3

Search UM-Dearborn Class Schedule to find out more.

Meet your faculty member: Amy Brainer, Associate Professor of Women’s & Gender Studies and Sociology

One of the benefits of taking a Foundations course is gaining a faculty mentor that can support you throughout your college career. Get to know Amy Brainer, faculty member for Hope and Joy in Queer and Trans Lives.

Dr. Brainer is an associate professor of women’s & gender studies and sociology and coordinator of the LGBTQ studies certificate program. She does research on queer and trans family issues in Taiwan and in the US immigration system.

Some of her favorite things are eye-catching nail designs, hoop earrings, being an auntie, cross-species animal friendships on YouTube, and teaching in ways that support growth in and out of the classroom.

Have questions about this course? Email Dr. Brainer at [email protected].