Meet Candace Hasan, a Georgia State University graduate and passionate advocate in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS). As an abortion storyteller, doula, and community organizer, Candace is committed to advancing sexual wellness and amplifying Black women’s voices. Join us as she shares her journey through WGSS and her vision for a more equitable future.
Please introduce yourself: name, educational background, degree from GSU, and your interests in WGSS.
Hi! I’m Candace Hasan (she/her)! I am an abortion storyteller, abortion doula, sex-education trainer, writer, content creator, and community organizer born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. Dedicated to advancing sexual wellness, dismantling abortion stigma, and creating Black feminist-conscious content, I champion taking up space and innovative approaches to resistance. I recently graduated from Georgia State University with a Master's degree in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, where my research focuses on hip-hop feminism and acts of anti-misogyny. I also hold an undergraduate degree in Political Science from Xavier University of Louisiana. Connect with me on social media @conceitedcan!
Can you share your journey through the program?
When I first researched Georgia State University, I was intrigued by their Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) program. Initially, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to pursue a full degree or just take a few classes, so I registered for the graduate certificate in WGSS. After just one semester, I realized that a Master’s in WGSS was exactly what I wanted to pursue. The readings, discussions, and thought-provoking questions drew me in, and I knew that the knowledge gained from this program would greatly serve my passions and career interests.
What inspired your interest in this area of study?
What initially drew me to Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies was a deep passion for Black women and a desire to understand and challenge the systemic inequalities they face. Growing up in New Orleans, I witnessed firsthand the impact of these disparities and felt a strong urge to become a voice that challenges societal norms and advocates for change. The interdisciplinary nature of this field, combining sociology, history, and cultural studies, offered me a comprehensive framework to explore these issues. It allowed me to delve into the complex intersections of race, gender, and sexuality and understand how these factors shape the experiences of Black women. This field not only provides the tools to critically analyze and address these injustices but also inspires me to create and participate in movements aimed at fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
What was your most memorable experience in the WGSS department at GSU?
One of my most memorable experiences in the WGSS department was being a peer emergency contraceptive distributor, where I had the privilege of giving out over 500 Plan B products on campus free of cost. This experience was incredibly fulfilling because it highlighted the importance of easy access to essential items for our bodies to ensure true autonomy. Serving as the point person on campus for reproductive justice and sexual wellness was a role I deeply valued. It taught me the importance of contributing to a more equitable and empowering campus community by ensuring that everyone had the resources they needed to make decisions about their bodies without barriers.
What’s something about WGSS that you wish more people knew?
I wish more people knew that Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies exposes you to a wide range of career possibilities in policy, healthcare, advocacy, social work, education, media, nonprofits, and more. This field equips you with critical thinking skills, a deep understanding of the world around you, and the ability to advocate for marginalized communities. It opens doors to impactful work in activism, community organizing, research, and beyond, allowing you to make meaningful contributions to society. This field uniquely empowers you to actively shape and contribute to the kind of world you envision living in.
Are there any projects you're currently working on?
For my graduate thesis project, I curated a Hip-Hop feminist curriculum titled “Thee Black Female Rap Renaissance.” This curriculum aims to help young people explore
feminism through the lens of Black female hip-hop and narratives. I’m excited to share that my curriculum has been selected for a workshop at the annual SisterSong “Let’s Talk About Sex” Conference. Following the conference, I plan to pilot the curriculum with Atlanta feminist nonprofits as a learning cohort.
How has your MA in WGSS impacted your current work?
An MA in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies has been instrumental in my current work and projects. It has provided me with a deep understanding of intersectionality, critical theory, and gender justice, which are foundational to my advocacy and community organizing efforts. The program also honed my research skills, allowing me to conduct in-depth analyses and create informed, impactful content. Additionally, the MA program has connected me with a network of like-minded individuals and resources, enriching my work and inspiring new ideas. Overall, my MA experience in WGSS has been invaluable in shaping my approach to activism and empowering me to make meaningful contributions to social change. I owe much of this transformative experience to my amazing teachers, particularly Dr. Bernales and Dr. Kubala, whose mentorship has been instrumental in my academic and personal growth.
What are your plans for the future?
My future plans involve continuing to take up space, challenging normative ideals, and subverting conventional messages about Black women. I aim to create Black-feminist conscious content inspired by my brand, “a sexy, Black feminist,” and push boundaries with wit and wisdom. A book chapter is forthcoming, along with hip-hop feminist Atlanta cohorts!
Any advice for prospective students considering a degree in WGSS?
My advice would be to keep an open mind! Don’t shut down when your worldview is challenged or when it differs from others. Remember, you don’t know it all! Connect with peers who have different perspectives and be open to learning from them. Read every day, even if it’s just a few pages. And most importantly, remember to take rest! Learning about the world can be exhausting, especially when you realize it's worse off than you thought.
What are your interests and hobbies outside of school? What are you reading, watching, or listening to lately?
Since school has ended, I have found more time to read for leisure. I am currently reading Kindred by Octavia Butler. I am perpetually obsessed with RuPaul’s Drag Race—it's undoubtedly the best competition show ever made! Additionally, I eagerly anticipate Megan Thee Stallion’s upcoming self-titled album!