2010 Forum

CONTROLLING SEXUALITY THROUGH VIOLENCE, SHAME, AND CULTURAL OPPRESSION: Implications for Human Rights

February 24-26, 2010

Violence and aggression are common ways that individuals and social institutions regulate human sexuality, enforcing rigid norms for sexual behavior and expression. Examples include physical assault, psychological harassment, public shaming, and discriminatory public policies. These forms of violence and aggression have become ever more diverse in recent years, as technology has made it easier to identify, scrutinize, expose, and modify what is generally considered private sexual expression. As a result, our society must confront fundamental cultural, political, and practical questions: Is sexual self-expression a fundamental human right for everyone? Should we protect sexual minorities from victimization in the same way that we protect ethnic minorities? If so, what are the most effective strategies to prevent violence directed against sexual minorities?

Four panels featuring University of Utah and national scholars with local professionals discuss: (1) Mechanisms of Violence: Harassment, Assault and Fear; (2) Breaking the Cycle: Prevention and the Next Generation; (3) State Tolerance of Violence and Discrimination; and (4) Public Shaming.

Conference Agenda with Videos
Conference Brochure
Keynote Flyers with Bios
Forum Co-Sponsors
Map of Venues