Post by The Australian National University

Associate Professor Katie Sutton is bringing to life the overlooked histories of queer, gender-diverse and neurodivergent people. A German and gender studies expert at the ANU School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics, Sutton is a leading Australian voice in global discussions on gender, neurodiversity and health humanities. The ANU researcher’s work examines LGBTIQ+ representation historically to change dominant narratives in the history of gender and sexuality, contesting transphobic beliefs that argue trans identities are a contemporary social trend. Sutton says the resilience and bravery of the queer community over many decades – a theme which they explore through their studies – have long been a catalyst for social change. “Doctors and scientists in the late 19th and early 20th century didn’t just start exploring trans identity out of the blue, they did so because people in the community were speaking back to the authorities,” Sutton says.   “We owe them a real debt.”   Read more: quicklink.anu.edu.au/7mwz   ANU College of Arts & Social Sciences