This was one speech that didn't make students fall asleep.
Professor Juana Maria Rodriguez delivered a lecture in the Penniman Library of Bennett Hall Wednesday afternoon, entitled "Sodomy and Sovereignty: Puerto Rican Politics and Queer Activist Interventions."
An English professor specializing in queer theory at Bryn Mawr University, Rodriguez discussed the current situation of sodomy laws in Puerto Rico. She described and analyzed recent queer activist movements and politics surrounding the current laws.
Professor Yolanda Padilla of the Penn English Department introduced Rodriguez after giving a short biography. The small crowd in Penniman Hall received her warmly as she began her speech.
Rodriguez covered a wide range of issues regarding the sodomy situation in Puerto Rico. She discussed the political aspects, including the current law's uncertain status in Puerto Rican courts.
She also described recent news events, including the workings of Rev. Margarita Sanchez, who turned herself in to Puerto Rican authorities for committing sodomy before founding the activist group Amnesty.
Following her speech, Rodriguez entertained questions from the audience.
She then milled with the crowd, meeting members of the Penn community.
Those in attendance were appreciative of Rodriguez's speech.
"It's not every day you get to hear about issues like sodomy in Puerto Rico," College sophomore Lauren Friedland said.
"It definitely provided an interesting perspective."
The topic sparked opinion among audience members, who debated sodomy issues over snacks provided during the reception.
The event, which was held both in conjunction with National Coming Out Day and Latino Heritage Month, was sponsored by La Casa Latina.
