Thursday, March 11
Performing Queer America: The Politics of Lesbian Comedy



How do lesbian comics perform America? in other words, how is lesbian identity and civil rights negotiated through performance, particularly when faced with cultural and legal exclusion in one's own nation? Drawing from the comedic stylings of Robin Tyler and other 1970s lesbian comics, this panel will examine the socio-political issues explores by lesbian comics. Special attention will be given to the impact of early lesbian comedy on contemporary lesbian humor production, the strategies these women impart for combating queer exclusion in the national polity, and how we ought to begin negotiating the politics of national belonging (so we win).

Panelists:
Rebecca (Beck) Krefting, Ph.D. Candidate, Micia Mosely, Ph.D.

CUNY Graduate Center
Room C197
6-8 PM