Gender and Sexualities Research and Interest Group Building community around gender, sexuality, and rural life
What We’re About
The Gender and Sexualities Research Interest Group is dedicated to expanding and sharing knowledge related to gender, sexuality, and the experiences of women in rural contexts. This group serves as a vital connection point for scholars, practitioners, and activists committed to exploring and addressing issues of gender and sexuality in rural communities.
Our mission is to foster a welcoming and inclusive network of support among individuals of diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, racial and ethnic identities, sexual orientations, gender identities, and physical abilities—both within the Rural Sociological Society (RSS) and in broader academic and community settings.
Through scholarship, collaboration, and advocacy, the Gender and Sexualities RIG aims to promote equity, amplify underrepresented voices, and advance meaningful dialogue around gender and sexuality in rural life.
Annual Dues:
Regular Members – $10
Student Members – $5
Get Involved:
Attend our sessions and networking events at the RSS Annual Meeting
Participate in planning discussions or propose new activities
Contact our leadership team to get connected
What We Do and How to Get Involved
The Gender and Sexualities RIG is committed to fostering engagement, mentorship, and recognition of scholarly work. Each year, we host a variety of opportunities for members to connect, learn, and share their research, including:
- Annual Paper Sessions: Organized around current topics in gender and sexuality in rural contexts, these sessions provide a platform for presenting new research and building scholarly dialogue.
- Networking Events: Held during the RSS Annual Meeting, these gatherings offer space for building community and collaboration across institutions and disciplines.
- Student and Early Career Support: We actively encourage the participation of students and early career scholars, offering mentoring opportunities and a welcoming space to develop and present their work.
- Advocacy and Inclusion Efforts: The RIG is a space for uplifting underrepresented voices and promoting equity within the discipline and the broader society.
We welcome members at all stages of their careers who are passionate about issues of gender, sexuality, and social justice in rural settings.
Leadership:
📰 News and Announcements
📚 Selected Publications and Resources
Explore work from our members and resources on rural sociology:



