Who are you? What is your story? How do you express yourself? The experiences of Black queer life are reflected in the ways we tell our stories. We will explore a kiki methodology grounded in ballroom culture and Black queer storytelling. Drawing from queer of color critique and narrative construction, kiki methodology engages in three components: Black queer meaning-making, Black queer storytelling, and Black queer artistic expression. Kiki methodology connects envisioning and centering words, feelings, and voices of the Black queer community in the form of storytelling in higher education. We will engage about what is needed to be in queer community and kinship through storytelling.

ABOUT DR. HUTCHINGS
Dr. Quortne R. Hutchings (they, them) is a first-generation college graduate, proud Ronald E. McNair scholar alum, and assistant professor of higher education at Northern Illinois University. Their research primarily focuses on Black gay, bisexual, queer, and non-binary undergraduate and graduate students’ academic and social experiences in higher education, minoritized student affairs professionals’ experiences in student and academic affairs, and supporting students, faculty, and staff navigating substance use and recovery. Their research has been published in the Journal of College Student Development, Departures in Critical Qualitative Research, Journal of Higher Education, and International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Education.

TRANS AWARENESS MONTH
Trans Awareness Month is presented by Spectrum Center, and events are presented by units across campus. Find more Trans Awareness Month events at spectrumcenter.umich.edu/trans-awareness-month