Institutional structures are created through laws, policies, procedures, and practices that govern how organizations operate, including businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, and educational institutions. These structures often create systems of power and privilege that perpetuate inequality and oppression, particularly for marginalized groups like people who identify as LGBTQ+. In this essay, I will explore how these systems reinforce queer exclusion, and offer strategies for dismantling systemic discrimination.
One example of institutional structures is employment practices. Many companies have formal policies prohibiting employees from displaying any outward sign of their gender identity or sexual orientation at work, even if they do not affect their job performance. This can range from restricting hairstyles to banning Pride flags and pins. Such rules often go unchallenged because they seem neutral and non-discriminatory, but they send a clear message that queer individuals are unwelcome.
Another example is education. Schools and universities routinely exclude transgender students from sports teams, restrooms, and locker rooms that align with their gender identity, and teachers may refuse to acknowledge them by name or pronoun. This not only excludes trans youth from social activities but also puts them in danger of being bullied and harassed.
In healthcare settings, many insurance providers deny coverage for services related to gender transition, while medical professionals may hesitate to provide care due to lack of training or fear of legal consequences.
A survey found that nearly half of transgender individuals reported experiencing at least one form of mistreatment during their most recent visit to the doctor's office.
These examples demonstrate how institutions perpetuate queer exclusion through laws, regulations, and societal norms that marginalize LGBTQ+ people. They promote a heteronormative culture where cisgender, white, abled, and male identities dominate, leaving everyone else struggling for acceptance and representation.
What mechanisms can be used to disrupt systemic discrimination? One strategy is advocacy. Activists have successfully challenged institutional structures through protests, petitions, lawsuits, and public campaigns aimed at raising awareness about issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. In addition, organizations like corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies can take proactive steps to create policies that embrace diversity and inclusion.
Another approach is education. Schools and universities can implement curricula that address queer experiences, histories, and identities, including those of people of color, trans individuals, and disabled persons. Teachers can model inclusive practices by using correct pronouns and addressing students respectfully, and administrators can ensure that all students feel safe and supported.
Healthcare providers must receive adequate training in treating diverse patients with sensitivity and compassion, and insurance companies should cover all medically necessary treatments related to gender transition. This will help eliminate barriers to care and reduce stigma surrounding gender identity.
Institutional structures reinforce queer exclusion by creating systems of power and privilege based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Activism, policy changes, education, and healthcare reforms can challenge these norms and promote inclusivity for all. By working together, we can build a society where everyone feels valued, accepted, and free to express their authentic selves.
How do institutional structures perpetuate queer exclusion, and what mechanisms can be used to disrupt systemic discrimination?
Institutional structures perpetuate queer exclusion through various mechanisms that are often subtle and difficult to detect. One of the most common ways is through unconscious bias, where employees may hold prejudices against LGBTQ+ individuals without realizing it, leading them to make decisions based on these biases rather than merit. Another way is through the lack of inclusive policies and practices within organizations.