What's Going On: September 2020

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Here at AUREA we’re putting together a collection of aromantic experiences, this time focusing on queerplatonic relationships. There’s a lot of mystery and unknowns surrounding this type of connection - it can be difficult to imagine. We hope this piece titled “My QPR” will show the heart and individuality of queerplatonic relationships. If you’re in a QPR and would like to share your experience we’ve created a form where you can submit a short piece of writing. Make it as factual or flowery as you’d like, whatever represents you and your relationship best. For more collections like this check out My Aromantic Future and the My Aromanticism series.

Last month's Carnival of Aros asked: what burning questions do you have regarding aromantic research? The round-up piece is a fantastic show of the community’s interests, concerns, and hopes for the future. This month, Aria’s Hollow wants to discuss the subject of Change. Take the opportunity to reflect on our history and consider what strides you would like our community to take in the future. How would you like us to grow?

TAAAP’s Pride Chat for August was all about education and inclusivity in schools, with a specific focus on how sex education should change to better include a-spec identities. To find out what this month’s topic will be and get in on the conversation register here. 

This year’s UK Asexuality Conference 2020 has gone viral! While they warn that the conversation will be UK centred, all are welcome. The conference is being held on the 6th of September between 11:30AM - 7:30PM (UTC +1) and the panel on Aromanticism will be held at 5:00PM. Sarah of the podcast Sounds Fake But Okay will be on the panel representing aromantics. If you’re interested in attending, register here. 

It’s rare that people outside the aromantic community bring forth discussion on the aromantic identity. Bianca I Laureano, Ph.D., an educator and sexologist, is leading a course on Understanding Asexuality and Aromanticism at the Smith College in Massachusetts, U.S. This webinar is designed to educate social workers and psychologists on how to best take care of and speak to a-spec individuals. There’s no doubt that while progress is slow, progress is being made.

Out and about?

It appears that aro meet-ups may be on the return! At the University of Melbourne, Australia, last month the Ace + Aro Collective came together for warm food and even warmer conversation. Fingers crossed that is the first of many. 

Aros in the media

Nik Hampshire has continued to update his series: Being Aromantic (while not asexual) much to our delight. His latest video focuses on a question we have all asked ourselves: Am I Aromantic?! 

For all your D&D players out there an aromantic story can be found on Adventure Lookup, a catalogue of campaigns. This story is aptly titled: Two Aromantics Spend an Entire Day Doing Everything Except Experiencing Romantic Attraction. What more could you want from an adventure?

Aromantics Address

Papo Aromantic