Why did you get involved with AAR and how is your work aligned?
I got involved in AAR as a seminarian at the Interdenominational Theological Center when the annual meeting was held not far from campus. I felt myself on a journey to discover more about the burning questions I felt forbidden to ask within my religious tradition at the time and to make meaning amid pervasive social justice. Having developed more language since then, I believe my purpose is the same: to discover what is going on (e.g., the descriptive) and what we, in our full humanity, can do to bring about change toward wholeness, equity, and healing.
What is your area of expertise or field of study?
Blackqueer studies in religion and sexual ethics
How has AAR been beneficial to you and your career?
AAR has been somewhat of a family reunion for me, where I get to connect and conspire with colleagues and friends who I knew "back when" and those I have had the pleasure to meet more recently through various networks. This is helpful to my soul and sustainability in academia. AAR is also a space where I am introduced to new conversations and encounter more perspectives, scholarly resources, pedagogical tools, and questions that sharpen me as a scholar, educator, and a creative.
What book is on your nightstand that you're reading or intend to read in the future?
Black Nature: Four Centuries of African American Nature Poetry edited by Camille T. Dungy and Black Aliveness, Or A Poetics of Being by Kevin Quashie.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love to walk and bike a lot (thanks to NYC!). As a photo-sonic artist, I also enjoy practicing photography and experimenting with sound.