TORONTO, March 18, 2016 – Hundreds of people dressed up as fictional animal characters with human characteristics (anthropomorphic beings) will attend an annual convention in Toronto, March 18 to 20.

Furnal Equinox is a gathering of furries — people interested in anthropomorphic animals or creatures. While fans create a community of like-minded individuals, the mainstream society is critical of furries, according to Debra Soh, a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Health at York University.

“Many perceive furries as sexually deviant and sinister,” says Soh, a sexual addiction researcher. “And some wonder if their sexual interest is the only reason for this identity.”

To understand what role sexuality really plays in the life style of furries, Soh attended their convention two years ago. She is available for media interviews to discuss further on the topic.

York University is known for championing new ways of thinking that drive teaching and research excellence. Our 52,000 students receive the education they need to create big ideas that make an impact on the world. Meaningful and sometimes unexpected careers result from cross-discipline programming, innovative course design and diverse experiential learning opportunities. York students and graduates push limits, achieve goals and find solutions to the world’s most pressing social challenges, empowered by a strong community that opens minds. York U is an internationally recognized research university – our 11 faculties and 24 research centres have partnerships with 200+ leading universities worldwide.

Media Contact:

Gloria Suhasini, York University, 416-736-2100, ext. 22094, suhasini@yorku.ca