I'm Dr. KáLyn (Kay) Coghill (they/them), an interdisciplinary scholar, award-winning activist, practitioner, and educator residing in the vibrant Richmond, Virginia. My passion lies in tackling online gender-based violence, online harassment, and hate speech. I take pride in crafting innovative harm reduction strategies inspired by the incredible insights of Black women and non-binary femmes in digital spaces. I also delve into the important conversation about the role of AI in perpetuating sexual harm online, particularly through deepfake technology and AI apps that facilitate image-based sexual violence. Together, we can work towards safer online environments for everyone!

I've had the wonderful opportunity to share my research on amazing platforms like the United Nations NGOCSW67 and the 2023 Conference on Feminist Approaches to Justice. There, I spoke about the important effects of technology on women and girls in the justice system. My partnership with the UN has helped create helpful guidelines and recommendations for police officers to tackle Technology Facilitated Violence Against Women. On an international level, I collaborate with organizations such as Glitch UK, and my insights have even been featured in Essence magazine, showcasing my passion for raising awareness about digital misogynoir and inspiring meaningful change.

I truly enjoy talking about online gender-based violence and love conducting workshops and training sessions focused on harm reduction strategies and managing our digital footprints. As an adjunct instructor at a few universities, I have the pleasure of teaching and creating engaging courses on topics like misogynoir, hashtag activism, hip-hop feminism, digital storytelling, and literature.

Alongside my professional endeavors, I'm proud to be a board member of the Richmond Reproductive Freedom Project and offer abortion doula services in the Richmond community. I also facilitate a sister circle called GLOW at a local high school, which centers around Black feminism. My passion lies in supporting, educating, and empowering individuals to foster safer and more equitable digital and physical environments for everyone.

I identify as a Black, fat, disabled, non-binary femme who comes from a busy, small city with a rich Black history.