What does heterosexism in the tertiary environment look like?
What does heterosexism in the tertiary environment look like?
Heterosexism can manifest in a number of ways, and while incidences of heterosexism in the tertiary environment may be unintentional, they are no less harmful. Heterosexism does not necessarily involve intentional expressions of negative beliefs or attitudes about LGBTIQ people. Rather, heterosexism often entails a lack of recognition of LGBTIQ people and issues, or unintentional expressions of negative beliefs or attitudes.
This can imply that LGBTIQ people and communities are not relevant or socially accepted.
The following table sets out some examples of heterosexism in the tertiary environment.
The Issue
Example
Why It’s Heterosexist?
Using heterosexist examples or sexist language in class.
“Atoms sometimes attract each other like males and females. At the same time, atoms sometimes repel each other like two males.”
This assumes that heterosexual couplings are natural and normal, while same-sex couplings (such as that of two males) are unnatural and abhorrent.
Assuming the gender of any student and/or continuing to misuse pronouns even after a student indicates their preferred gender pronoun to you. This is referred to as ‘misgendering.’
Leslie, a person who presents in a feminine manner has approached you prior to class to indicate that they identify as a he.
“I would like for Leslie to share her stories related to her life as a young woman growing up in NewYork.”
It assumes that the student identifies as female based on appearance/name. It also disregards Leslie’s request to be regarded as a ‘he’.
Assigning class projects, using case studies, or formulating essay topics and exam questions that consistently feature heterosexual couplings, individuals and families.
“For the class project, I want you to think about the divisions of labour that exist within your family. Please list the domestic chores performed individually by your mother and father and reflect on their roles in your household.”
It assumes that all parents are heterosexual/in relationships with the opposite sex. It also assumes that everyone has grown up with two parents in their household.
Exclusively using examples and images of heteronormative families in discussions and presentations.
In a discussion of demographics, families, society etc., using PowerPoint slides that only have images of heterosexual families and relationships.
Renders invisible individuals and families of other sexual orientations and gender identities.