In our second event to commemorate International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBT), the University of Edinburgh’s Staff Pride Network will be shining a light on bisexual+ experiences, as we explore issues around bi visibility, coming out, and the intersection of cultural and sexual identities. The event will include a screening of Desiree Akhavan’s wry comedy, Appropriate Behaviour, followed by a panel discussion featuring a diverse group of voices from within the University community and beyond.

Appropriate Behaviour is Akhavan’s award-winning, feature-length debut as writer, director, and actor. The film follows Shirin (Akhavan)—a Persian-American, bisexual Brooklynite—struggling to find a true purpose in life after girlfriend, Maxine (Rebecca Henderson), breaks up with her. Unaware of their daughter’s bisexuality, Shirin’s parents can’t understand why she has moved out of her spacious flat into a dingy Brooklyn shoebox, and although Shirin is out in other parts of her life, she is not ready to come out to her traditional, Persian family. Navigating through a series of (sometimes ill-advised) pansexual encounters, Shirin tries to figure out what went wrong with Maxine, finding herself along the way.

The post-film panel will look at some of the themes raised in the film, as we delve deeper into perceptions of bisexuality with our panellists and audience. Our panellists are:

Dr. Maria Boutchkova: Maria is a Lecturer of Finance in the Business School at the University of Edinburgh. She earned her doctorate in finance from the University of Oklahoma and was previously at Concordia University, and the University of Leicester. She is also the Treasurer for the Staff Pride Network.

Amila Dissanayake: Amila is a pansexual, non-monogamous woman of colour. Out in some places and not in others as she has navigated school, university and now the corporate world, she will share her perspectives how her cultural background has influenced her decisions and behaviour.

Adrian David Philpott: Originally from Lisburn in Northern Ireland, Adrian is currently enjoying the quiet life in the Scottish Borders. Adrian identifies as gay, but is skeptical of the rigid definitions that have been placed on his identity, and interested in gaining a greater understanding of his own sexual fluidity.

Elizabeth Reiff: Elizabeth is one of the founders of Bi & Beyond, an Edinburgh-based community for bisexuals and those who identify under similar labels.

**Snacks and soft drinks will be provided during the break.**

Please bring your ticket to this event – we look forward to seeing you!

About the Staff Pride Network Film Screenings:

Film screenings hosted by the Staff Pride Network are designed to highlight the of work LGBT+ people in film, while exploring diverse topics and themes with our audience and panellists. Our films are chosen for their ability to illuminate different aspects of LGBT+ experiences, both positive and negative. As such, the content of these films does not represent the opinions of the Staff Pride Network or its members, but instead provides a platform for thoughtful discussion where ideas can be explored and challenged in a safe environment.

'Appropriate Behaviour' - IDAHOBT Film Screening and Panel Discussion