“Baby, I was born this way” – representation of Rainbow identities in Aotearoa academic dress

Category

Research not based in a faculty

Description of research project

This study explores how external factors influence graduation outfit choices for Rainbow Communities (LGBTQIA+ individuals) in Aotearoa. These factors include personal decisions about being ‘out’ at university, with whānau (family), and in other contexts. There is little research on this topic, and the findings may help improve inclusion at graduation ceremonies.

The research involves 30–40 minute semi-structured interviews with 12–15 current or recent AUT graduates. Participants will receive a $20 voucher as a koha (gift).

Interviews will be recorded, transcribed, and sent to participants for review. Participants can also voluntarily submit a photo of their graduation outfit for inclusion in the research. Participation is flexible, and individuals can withdraw anytime before publication.

For more details or to participate, contact the researcher via email.

Inclusion and/or exclusion criteria

Current AUT graduand or graduated from AUT 2023-2025.

Statement of ethics approval

Approved by the Auckland University of Technology Ethics Committee on 2024-07-09 for 3 years.

AUTEC approval number

24/180

Contact person

Scott Pilkington, scott.pilkington@aut.ac.nz

Participant information sheet

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