This panel aims to explore the intersections between translation studies and studies in sexuality, i.e. gay and lesbian studies, queer theory, and other studies of sexual identity.

Submissions are welcomed on any topic that addresses both sexuality and translation; work that deals with non-Western languages and cultures is especially encouraged. Some suggestions:

1) Gay and lesbian translators, their translations and their theories of translation. James Holmes, for example, is perhaps one of the most important figures in the formation of translation studies, but little if anything has been written on the relationship between his theoretical work, his own homoerotic poetry and his translation of Dutch poetry into English.

2) How do lesbian or gay authors/theorists represent the act of translation and interpretation in their work (e.g., Gloria Anzaldúa, Nicole Brossard), and how do these discussions of bilingual sexual identity have broader implications for studies in bi-/multilingualism or intercultural studies?

3) What dialogues are possible between theoretical models in translation studies and queer theory, especially regarding issues of visibility (‘the closet,’ ‘outing’ etc.) and the questioning of normativity, whether in sexuality or translation? How is translation configured within a constellation of other ‘trans’ terms: transnationality, transit, transgender, transculturation, transference?

4) The role of translation/interpretation in the advancement of equal rights for GLBT people: non-discrimination, access to health care, legal representation, immigration and citizenship, marriage and parenting.

5) Translation/interpretation as censor of representations of non-normative sexualities and collaborator in the construction of officialized sexual norms.

6) What is the relationship of studies of sexuality and translation to other discussions of alterity and difference: feminist and postcolonial approaches, deconstruction, critical theory? To what extent is the issue of identity, whether of class, race, gender or sexuality, of continuing theoretical importance to translation studies?

7) What is the relevance of, and the ethical imperatives connected to, theorizing upon sexual identity within the specific institutional setting of translation studies (the translator’s profession, academic departments, professional associations)?

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