Dr. Jian Neo Chen, associate professor of queer studies in the Department of English and Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies at Ohio State University, received the 2021 Social Sciences book award from the Association for Asian American Studies! The award was given in recognition of Dr. Chen’s book Trans Exploits (Duke University Press, 2019). 

According to the publisher’s website, “In Trans Exploits Jian Neo Chen explores the cultural practices created by trans and gender-nonconforming artists and activists of color. They argue for a radical rethinking of the policies and technologies of racial gendering and assimilative social programming that have divided LGBT communities and communities of color along the lines of gender, sexuality, class, immigration status, and ability.” 

Reviewers gave Dr. Chen’s Trans Exploits high praises, especially for its focus on trans people of color. Jennicet Gutiérrez, Trans Latinx Activist, says, “This work is critical because it highlights the contributions and impact of trans people of color and their influence in shaping our culture, politics, and movement.” 

The Department of English would like to congratulate Dr. Chen for being awarded this prestigious honor!