The Kentucky Fairness Alliance is proud to share with you news regarding a fairness event taking place next week in western Kentucky.

The Toxic Closet: Being Gay in the Bible Belt
A Multi-Media Research-Based Presentation
by Dr. Bernadette Barton

Wednesday, April 8
7:00 p.m. (CST)
Room 208, Faculty Hall
Murray State University (MSU)
Free Admission

Presentation Description:  How does it affect an individual to hear comments that SLANDER the group of which one is a member?  What is it like to grow up gay in a homophobic church?  What stories do lesbians and gay men have to share about their experiences of discrimination living in a culture highly saturated with CONSERVATIVE RELIGIOUS IDEOLOGY?  For, while much is said about homosexuals and homosexuality by those attempting to restrict gay rights, there has been little research analyzing how homophobic religious SPEECH affects those living in communities in which the majority of individuals identify as fundamentalist.  This powerful multi-media presentation – including original interview data from lesbians and gay men living in Texas and Kentucky, video clips and photographs – illustrates the effects of religious-based HOMOPHOBIA on individual lives.  Living in the BIBLE BELT forces many gay men and lesbians to HIDE a key aspect of who they are. 

Presenter Bio:  Dr. Barton is Associate Professor of Sociology and Women’s Studies at Morehead State University.  She is the author of Stripped: Inside the Lives of Exotic Dancers (2006), New York University Press, and numerous articles on sexuality studies.  Dr. Barton’s current research project examines the experiences of gays and lesbians, and is the focus of an upcoming book titled, Pray the Gay Away: Religion and Homosexuality in the Bible Belt. 

We hope to see you in Murray for this powerful presentation!

In fairness,
Your KFA Team

P.S. - If you are interested in booking Dr. Barton to present her research in your town, please let us know.

This event is made possible by MSU Alliance, MSU College of Humanities and Fine Arts, MSU Office of the Provost, and the MSU Institutional LGBT Liaison.  Questions regarding this event should be directed to 270-809-3192.