Announcing the Final Examination of Ms. Alison Ann Whitmore for the degree of Master of Arts in Anthropology.
Date: February 25th 2021
Time: 12:00pm
Room: via Zoom
Topic: Alison Whitmore's Thesis Defense Zoom Meeting
Time: Feb 25, 2021 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
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https://us04web.zoom.us/j/8220700068?pwd=VytjR01obTdTV2IrV3RlL202eEQ2dz09
Meeting ID: 822 070 0068
Passcode: 8Z1ZKb
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“I have my coven now”:
TransGENDER eXPERIENCE in the Central Florida pAGAN COMMUNITY
This thesis analyzes Transgender experience and dynamics in the Wiccan community of Central Florida. Religion plays an important role as part of social structure for many people in the United States. It can also be a source of strife and conflict between culture groups and within cultures. In the US, predominant religious traditions stem from monotheistic Abrahamic faiths (Christianity, Judaism, and Islam); however, Wicca, a Neo-Pagan polytheistic religion, is practiced by a small but growing number of people. Based on nearly one year of ethnographic engagement with the Central Florida Wiccan community, this study presents an analysis of the gendered experience in Wicca, especially as it refers to the experiences of Trans Wicca practitioners and their religious communities. I argue that the dualistic theology underlying Wicca religious belief and practice, alongside shared experiences of othering and liminality, encourages the maintenance of an open, accepting and encouraging atmosphere towards LGBTQ+, and particularly Trans, Wicca practitioners.
Outline of Studies:
Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, East Carolina University
Committee in Charge:
Dr. Beatriz Reyes-Foster, Chair
Dr. Nessette Falu
Dr. Joanna Mishtal
Dr. Jeanine Viau
Approved for distribution by Dr. Beatriz Reyes-Foster, Committee Chair, on February 10th, 2021
The public is welcome to attend.
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