Isabella Gregory (New Zealand)

A student of contemporary religion and politics, I enjoy learning about the social and theoretical narratives which define the relationship between these two domains. To map the subterranean networks that shape religio-political thought and action is an interesting task in its own right. But what makes it important, to me, are two things: transgressions and antagonisms. In locating those unlikely meetings of ideas that violate prevailing norms, there opens a set of possibilities for solidarity, for a nimble progressive politics that develops tensile strength by engaging, rather than slighting, difference. To look into the eyes of religious and political extremisms - along with those of the hybrid creatures which sit in between - seems essential to the critical imagination of any compelling alternative.

With an article forthcoming in Counterfutures on the ways in which local, minor-party politics challenges normative paradigms of the ‘religious right’, I’m coming to Oxford with an academic background rooted in Aotearoa New Zealand. I look forward to continuing to explore significant local themes - anti-colonial resistance, political theology, and provocations to the assumptions of the secular state - in new contexts during the year at Oxford. I’m thrilled to have the chance to bring these conversations to the Ertegun House. 

Holding degrees in religious studies and music from Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington, I trained and performed as a flute player in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, and the United States before returning to my academic interests. I’ve freelanced as an orchestral musician throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and was a Fulbright scholar to the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University. I feel very fortunate to be able to continue performing this year amidst Oxford’s rich possibilities for extra-curricular music.