Cisheteronormativity

In this course, we’ll look at the gender binary and heteronormativity. These represent two systems that limit how we understand gender and sexuality. Together, they create cisheteronormativity, which is a root cause of social injustice and health inequity for all, especially LGTBQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, asexual, +) communities. We’ll explore the relationship between male-dominated structures of power (patriarchy), fixed gender roles (the gender binary), and how normalizing only heterosexuality (heteronormativity) limits access to health-serving resources, opportunities, and infrastructure throughout society. We’ll look at how these systems interact with other root causes, such as white supremacy, racism, and class oppression, driving health inequities particularly for the people who are marginalized at their intersections. ​When we engage with LGTBQIA+ community experts and members, refine our institutional approaches, gather better data, advocate for better laws and policies, and educate our communities, public health can help to transform our culture to one that affirms gender and sexuality in all its iterations for all members of our communities.

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