There has been a growing awareness of the ways that gender norms shape society, culture, and individuals' experiences. One way this is manifested is through criminalizing nonconforming gender expression. While laws prohibiting crossdressing have existed for centuries, they were often used to regulate behavior rather than punish it.
Today, these same laws are being used to target transgender people who don't conform to traditional gender roles. This can lead to serious consequences for their daily lives, such as job discrimination, violence, and housing instability.
One example is the case of Jessie Daniels, a Black trans woman who was arrested for "loitering" while waiting outside an Atlanta nightclub. The officer told her she was dressed like a man, which led to a confrontation that ended with her arrest. She was then taken to jail and charged with a misdemeanor count of felony obstruction. This type of policing disproportionately affects trans women of color and creates barriers to employment and housing.
Criminalization of gender expression also leads to increased surveillance and harassment by law enforcement.
In August 2019, police in New York City began arresting people suspected of wearing clothes designed for the opposite sex. The initiative resulted in hundreds of arrests, most of them against low-income transgender people of color. In addition, these tactics can lead to further marginalization and alienation within communities.
Transgender individuals face numerous challenges when trying to access basic services, including healthcare and education. Many doctors refuse to treat patients who identify outside of binary categories or require surgery before they will provide care. Similarly, schools may deny admission to students based on their gender identity. These actions limit opportunities for employment, education, and social mobility, which can have long-term effects on economic stability.
The criminalization of gender expression has real-world consequences for transgender individuals, leading to heightened risks of violence, homelessness, poverty, and poor mental health outcomes.
Studies show that transgender people are more likely than cisgender peers to experience depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. Transgender individuals also report higher rates of sexual assault and domestic violence than cisgender individuals, often due to a lack of legal protections and social acceptance.
To address this issue, policymakers must implement measures to protect the rights of all individuals regardless of gender expression. This includes ending discriminatory laws, increasing training for law enforcement officials, improving access to healthcare and education, and providing resources for transgender individuals. By doing so, society can create a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone.
How does criminalization of gender expression impact daily survival strategies?
The criminalization of gender expression has a significant impact on the daily survival strategies of individuals who do not conform to traditional gender norms. It often forces them into hiding, making it difficult for them to find employment, housing, and other basic necessities that are necessary for everyday life. This can lead to increased feelings of isolation, fear, and vulnerability, which can have negative mental health consequences such as anxiety and depression.