Gender Studies
Through exploring the lived, embodied experience of ourselves and others, we can learn how to cultivate a compassionate and inclusive society.
We are in the midst of a new wave of interest in gender. Popular cultural phenomena such as #metoo dominate the media, and flourishing public conversations regarding political representation, sexual and family violence, transgender rights, the legacies of Western feminism, or radicalisation are all engaged with questions of gender (as well as its intersections with other markers of identity).
Meanwhile, workplaces everywhere are under increasing pressure to address unconscious bias and embrace diversity and inclusion.
The stakes are often high, and the debates can sometimes seem toxic and polarising.
But does it have to be this way?
Throughout this interdisciplinary major, you will be challenged to develop enhanced awareness of self and others, and advanced skills in negotiating difference. In doing so, you’ll be invited to practice – in the words of the celebrated feminist scholar bell hooks – a “wise and loving politics” grounded in respect, commitment and compassion.
Our course
Study Gender Studies
Our projects
- 'Pit Lakes on Country' project for The Australian Cooperative Research Centre on Transformations in Mining Economies
- Locating Loss from Climate Change in Everyday Places
Collaborations
Our major is affiliated with the Australian Women's and Gender Studies Association (AWGSA), which is the peak body for gender studies in Australia. UWA periodically hosts the biannual AWGSA conference.
Within the UWA community, Gender Studies staff are active contributors to several committees or projects related to diversity, equity and inclusion, including the Gender Equity Working Group, the Athena Swan Charter and the Safe and Respectful Communities Working Group.
We also enjoy a close relationship with UWA’s Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery, particularly on account of its Cruthers Collection of Women’s Art, which we visit with our students whenever we can. Staff associated with Gender Studies have also presented public talks on this and other collections.
