Digital Stigma Against Queer Identities
The internet has become an important tool to help people connect with others who share similar interests, experiences, and backgrounds, including those from underrepresented communities such as the LGBTQIA+ community.
This freedom comes with its own set of challenges - specifically when it comes to data sovereignty, privacy rights, and algorithmic governance.
Digital stigma against queer identities is particularly harmful for marginalized users who are already facing discrimination in their daily lives.
Transgender individuals often face high rates of violence and abuse, which can be exacerbated by online harassment and cyberbullying. This creates additional stress and anxiety that can have serious mental health consequences.
Queer users may experience digital stigma through targeted advertising, profiling based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and restrictions on access to certain services due to antiquated policies. These factors all contribute to the lack of inclusivity on many platforms, creating a sense of isolation and disconnection among members of these communities.
Data Sovereignty and Privacy Rights
One major issue affecting queer individuals online is data sovereignty. Companies collect massive amounts of personal information about users, including sexual orientation and gender identity, without their consent. This information can then be used to create profiles that could potentially lead to discrimination, especially if the user's location or other demographic information is also included.
Companies may sell or share this data with third parties without adequate safeguards in place to protect individual privacy.
Queer individuals may also face increased surveillance from government agencies or employers who monitor their activity online. This not only violates privacy rights but can put them at risk for job loss, homelessness, or even physical danger.
Algorithmic Governance
Algorithmic governance refers to the ways in which algorithms are designed and deployed to shape our online experiences. In some cases, these algorithms reinforce existing power structures and biases - for example, when search results prioritize heteronormative content over LGBTQIA+-specific content. This creates an environment where it becomes harder for queer individuals to find resources and support that they need.
Algorithmic decision-making can perpetuate harmful stereotypes by pushing content that reinforces negative tropes about queer people.
A social media platform might recommend articles about "the dangers" of being transgender or promoting conversion therapy. These kinds of messages can further isolate marginalized communities and contribute to stigma.
Design Futures
Designing for inclusion means creating digital spaces that promote safety, community, and empowerment for all users - including those who identify as LGBTQIA+. One way to do this is through increased accessibility features such as closed captioning, alternative text descriptions, and color contrast options. Another approach is to design user interfaces that are gender-neutral and inclusive of non-binary identities.
Platforms should be held accountable for their data collection practices, with clear policies outlining how personal information will be used and shared. Companies must also ensure that their algorithms are not reinforcing harmful narratives about queer identities. By taking these steps, we can create a more equitable digital world that supports all users.
How does digital stigma against queer identities intersect with data sovereignty, privacy rights and algorithmic governance, and what design futures might reduce harm for marginalized users?
Digital stigma against queer identities can have a significant impact on data sovereignty, privacy rights, and algorithmic governance. When individuals from marginalized communities such as LGBTQ+ are online, they may experience discrimination or harassment that could lead them to limit their digital activity or refrain from sharing certain information.