"Zines Unearthed: Affirming Identity, Navigating Community and Communic" by Rae Blankemeyer

Abstract

This Independent Study focuses on the complex experiences of rural queer individuals as portrayed in the short form publications of zines, with a focus on themes of Rurality, Community, and Positive/Negative emotions. Through a qualitative and quantitative analysis of six zines, my research reveals the challenges and resilience of rural queer individuals. Findings exhibit the indispensable role of community support in navigating isolation and negative emotions, alongside moments of positivity, hope, and activism. When accessing the literature surrounding this topic I ask three questions: Who are queer farmers and what are their challenges? How do queer farmers find community and affirm themselves through media? And finally, how do people especially rural queer people use zines? Academic literature surrounding this topic is limited so I hope that my research fills some of these gaps in studies as more data and about rural queer individuals is brought to light.

Advisor

Mariola, Matthew

Department

Environmental Studies

Disciplines

Arts and Humanities

Keywords

Zines, Queer, Farmers, Queer Farmers, Community, Identity

Publication Date

2024

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2024 Rae Blankemeyer