The topic of systemic oppression based on sexual orientation has been gaining increased attention in recent years. Queer people are those who identify themselves outside of heteronormative norms, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, intersex, asexual, pansexual, demisexual, omnisexual, and others. While some progress has been made towards legal rights and social acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals, there is still a significant gap between reality and ideal equality. This can be seen in various forms such as disparities in access to healthcare, education, employment, housing, and public services. One way this manifests itself is through the exclusion of queer narratives from mainstream knowledge and institutions.
There are several mechanisms that sustain systematic exclusion of queer narratives in public knowledge and institutions. One major mechanism is homophobia and heterosexism. Heterosexism refers to the belief that heterosexuality is superior or more natural than other orientations. This often results in discrimination against queer people and their stories being dismissed or ignored. Another mechanism is censorship by religious organizations and governments. In many countries around the world, LGBTQ+ representation is censored or illegal due to conservative laws.
Media outlets may choose not to cover queer issues due to fear of backlash from advertisers or viewers.
Lack of representation within academic fields contributes to a dearth of research and scholarship on queer topics, which further perpetuates systemic oppression.
Another factor contributing to the systemic exclusion of queer narratives is the idea that sexuality should remain private. Many cultures have historically emphasized privacy when it comes to sex and relationships, leading to a stigma surrounding openness about one's sexual orientation. As a result, queer people may feel pressure to hide their identities or engage in secrecy, making it difficult for them to share their experiences with others.
Society tends to value traditional forms of intimacy like marriage over non-traditional ones, which means that queer relationships may be viewed as less valid or valuable than heterosexual ones.
There is the issue of normalization bias. Normalization bias occurs when individuals assume that what is commonplace must also be acceptable or correct. Because straight relationships are so prevalent in society, they come to be seen as the norm, leaving little space for alternative types of love and connection. This can make it challenging for queer people to find validation for their experiences, even if they do exist in some capacity.
These mechanisms serve to reinforce heteronormativity and keep queer stories invisible or marginalized.
Systematic exclusion of queer narratives in public knowledge and institutions is a complex problem that requires a multi-faceted approach. By addressing homophobia and heterosexism, censorship laws, lack of representation within academic fields, the need for privacy, and normalization bias, we can begin to shift culture towards greater inclusivity and acceptance. Only then will all members of society truly have access to full and accurate information about human sexuality.
What mechanisms sustain systematic exclusion of queer narratives in public knowledge and institutions?
Systematic exclusion of queer narratives can be sustained through various mechanisms that limit their visibility and representation in public spaces and institutional settings. One such mechanism is censorship, wherein cultural and political authorities actively suppress any mention of LGBTQ+ issues or experiences in order to maintain conservative norms and values.