The concept of queer erasure refers to the systematic silencing, invalidation, and removal of anything related to LGBTQ+ identities from social institutions such as education, employment, housing, healthcare, and media. It is a form of oppression that marginalizes individuals who do not fit into heteronormative gender roles and sexualities, leading to negative consequences such as higher rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicidality, and violence. Queer erasure can occur through explicit discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, but also implicit exclusionary practices within systems that prioritize cisgender and heterosexual experiences. This article examines how community interventions could help mitigate psychosocial impacts resulting from queer erasure in healthcare and societal systems.
Healthcare systems have been found to be particularly susceptible to queer erasure due to medicalization of certain behaviors and gendered expectations about illness, disability, and recovery.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people may experience disparities in access to care, quality of care, and treatment outcomes due to provider attitudes and assumptions. Interventions could involve educating providers on LGBTQ+ identities and creating more inclusive policies, such as allowing patients to self-identify their pronouns and using gender-neutral language.
Training programs could address sexuality and gender norms to reduce biases in healthcare settings.
Societal systems are also subject to queer erasure through homophobic or transphobic laws, regulations, and social norms. This can result in discriminatory policies towards LGBTQ+ individuals in housing, employment, education, and public spaces, as well as stigma and isolation. Interventions here could include advocacy for legal protections against discrimination, support for grassroots organizations working towards inclusion, and the creation of safe spaces for LGBTQ+ communities to connect and organize. It is important to recognize that intersectionality must guide these efforts, considering factors like race, class, ability, religion, and national origin that compound marginalization.
Community interventions can help mitigate psychosocial impacts of queer erasure by affirming diverse experiences and celebrating difference within healthcare and societal systems. By empowering LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to advocate for change, we can create a world where all people feel seen, heard, and valued regardless of their identity.
What community interventions can mitigate the psychosocial impact of queer erasure in healthcare and societal systems?
Interventions that address this issue should focus on promoting awareness and understanding of LGBTQ+ identities and experiences among healthcare providers, as well as fostering inclusive environments for patients. Additionally, policies such as non-discrimination laws, affirmative action initiatives, and sensitivity training programs can help create more equitable social structures. Finally, support groups and counseling services can provide emotional support to those who have experienced queer erasure.