Sociology of Religion Study Group (SOCREL) Annual Conference:

Religion and (In)Equalities

University of Chester, UK
28 – 30 March 2012

Plenary Speakers:

• Professor Tariq Modood (University of Bristol)
• Professor Elaine Graham (University of Chester)
• Professor Sean McCloud (University of North Carolina)

Also featuring, a roundtable discussion with…

• Professor Linda Woodhead and Dr Rebecca Catto (Lancaster University)
• Professor Kim Knott (University of Leeds)
•  Professor Hugh McLeod (University of Birmingham)
• Professor Gordon Lynch (University of Kent)
•  Dr Shuruq Naguib (Lancaster University)

*       Dr Karen Jochelson and Dr David Perfect (Equality and Human Rights Commission)

This interdisciplinary conference gathers academics and practitioners to discuss the complex ways religion interacts with systems of power and/or categories of difference that affect experiences of equality and/or inequality in individuals, groups and spaces. The intersections of gender, race and class are typically part of the mutually constitutive ‘matrix’ of social categories that contribute to identities and power relations, however religion is often overlooked. Such oversight can only result in limited analyses and leaves pathways to social inclusion and exclusion concealed. Through this conference we seek to bring together research that explores the ways religious beliefs, identities, practices, communities and institutions can contribute to both experiences of belonging and marginalization.

Abstracts are invited on the conference theme, especially on the interaction of religious beliefs, traditions, practices and identities with:

• Class
• Gender
• Economics
• Multicultural politics
• Education
• Social justice
• Race
• Dis/abilities
• Public policy
• Healthcare and well-being
• Sexuality

Please submit abstracts by 28 October 2011 to Dr Dawn Llewellyn (University of Chester) and Dr Sonya Sharma (Durham University) at: religionandinequalities@gmail.com

Abstracts for 20 minute papers (300 words max.), panel proposals (750 words max.) and alternative formats (750 words max.) are welcomed.

SOCREL is the British Sociological Association’s study group on Religion. For more details about the study group and conference please visit www.socrel.org.uk.