Sexualities in Education A Reader

«This book will queer your mind as it increasingly unveils both persistent and situated ways that sexualities matter in education, and demands that we question, act, change. Linking field-defining classics with new voices on norm-criticality, feminisms, and intersectionality, Meiners and Quinn have assembled a stunning collection of scholarship and art that reframes not merely the field of sexualities and education but education itself. Read this today.» (Kevin Kumashiro, author of 'Troubling Education: Queer Activism and Antioppressive Pedagogy')
«This reader is a must-have for anyone interested in sexuality, education, and social justice. Therese Quinn and Erica Meiners have made a unique cross-genred collection of academic as well as political, literary texts and art, highlighting both contemporary and historical perspectives. At its heart is a sharp analysis of the neo-liberal framing of education and the self, informed by an intersectional and queer-feminist approach to the meanings of gender, sexuality, and strategies of change. It brings us closer to understanding the depth of what is at stake, and yet inspiration and hopes for change, reminding us of our predecessor's impossible missions and activists today continuing them.» (Janne Bromseth, Stockholm University)
«This is a brave, inspiring and one-of-a-kind volume that brings fresh voices and modes of expression into contemporary debates on the politics and pedagogy of gender and sexuality. Its treasure trove of works by artists, academics, activists, educators, parents, and youth breathe new life into the claim that 'society can only be as free and open as its schools.' This 'queer-centric' and feminist collection of theoretical, historical, practical, and personal wisdom, and its dedication to the spirit of Ella Flagg Young, an acclaimed progressive educator and curricular innovator who initiated the first sex education program in the United States at the turn of the century, fills an immense void in teacher education literature and school reform efforts.» (Wendy Luttrell, Graduate Center of The City University of New York, CUNY)
«Finally, a sex ed teaching primer for the 'rest of us.' This book takes a realistic and appreciative stock of the diversity of North American families, sexualities and culture but doesn't stop there. Through poetry, visual art, and essays and contributors from the United States and Canada to Finland, Cambodia, and beyond, 'Sexualities in Education: A Reader' reminds us to push past the usual borders and limits: our lives are various and so should be the forms we use. Best of all, the book is grounded in pro-feminist, pro-pleasure, and pro-justice perspectives. Pick it up for inspiration; share it with the hope that we can change our world.» (Susie Bright)

Erica R. Meiners is a Professor of Education and Women’s Studies at Northeastern Illinois University.
Therese Quinn is Associate Professor and Chair of Art Education at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.