Seminar 5: Issues in Feminist Food Rhetorics: Conflicts, Tensions, Possibilities

Leaders: Consuelo Carr Salas (San Diego State University), Eileen E. Schell (Syracuse University), Abby M. Dubisar (Iowa State Universtiy) and Kelli R. Gill (Montana State University)

This RSA seminar will focus on feminist food rhetorics. A feminist approach to studying food
examines the rhetorical nature of food, drawing attention to the material and ecological approach
to food, from production to consumption and all the rhetorical action in between. Inspired by
work in feminist rhetorics, which recognizes and appreciates in the lives and words of women
(Kirsch and Royster), feminist food rhetorics, pays special attention to issues of uncovering the
people, places and practices that have been previously overlooked in food studies.

As feminist food rhetoricians, we ask: What actions, movements, and food choices are available
to us based on our positionalities within these systems? How are food systems both global and
local? We also consider how food systems are connected to questions of intersectionality.
In relation to that second question, we will connect this seminar to Louisville’s rich network of
urban farms, community gardens, and farm to table restaurants. We will look at food production,
ethics of eating, embodiment, interaction of food systems and community, and food and media
including digital and print cultures.

We have structured the seminar to be suitable for those who are interested in feminist food
rhetorics as scholars and as teachers. The structure of the seminar will provide a strong
foundation in feminist food rhetorics scholarship and encourage conversation and speculation
about the next steps for the field, including participants’ individual research and teaching
projects. We invite participants with a wide range of interests and experience with these topics,
but no previous experience in food rhetorics is required.

There will be no A/V equipment available in this seminar. The seminar leaders encourage participants to bring charged devices with their preferred hardware and software pre-loaded, especially for any participants who have accessibility needs. You should indicate any accessibility needs on your registration form.