Throughout history, queer people have been excluded from dominant social systems, leading to their marginalization and oppression. This can be seen in various areas, including politics, education, religion, economics, and media.
These exclusions are often subtle and hidden, making it difficult for individuals to understand how they work. In this article, I will explain the mechanisms that sustain systemic exclusion of queer narratives in public knowledge.
Let's examine language. Language is used to categorize people into groups, which then determines who has access to power and resources.
English speakers have more opportunities than those who do not speak the language. Similarly, heteronormative language reinforces the idea that only cisgender, straight people are normal and desirable. Words like "straight," "normal," and "heterosexual" are used as synonyms, while terms such as "gay" or "queer" are seen as negative or deviant. By using such language, society normalizes heterosexuality and devalues other sexual identities.
It shapes how people view themselves and others, creating barriers between groups.
Cultural norms play a significant role in excluding queer narratives. Traditional gender roles, family structures, and sexual behavior are promoted as ideal. Conforming to these norms is rewarded, while deviation is punished.
Same-sex relationships are stigmatized, leading to discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals. As a result, there is little representation of non-traditional romantic relationships in mainstream culture, including movies, TV shows, books, and music. Without positive portrayals of diverse experiences, individuals cannot see themselves reflected in the media, resulting in feelings of isolation and alienation.
Education institutions shape students' perceptions by omitting queer history, erasing queer experiences, and marginalizing queer voices. Textbooks often fail to mention historical figures who identified as LGBTQ+, leaving out critical aspects of their lives. School curricula also exclude important topics related to sexual orientation and gender identity, perpetuating misconceptions about them. Moreover, teachers may not feel comfortable discussing such subjects, avoiding any mention of them altogether. This limits students' understanding of queerness and contributes to its silence.
Fourth, religion plays an essential role in sustaining systematic exclusion. Religious doctrines dictate moral codes that condemn homosexuality or same-gender love, promoting heteronormative beliefs. Many religions have strict rules governing how people express their sexuality, creating barriers for those who identify differently.
Religious leaders use their power to influence public opinion and policy, further excluding queer narratives from society.
Economics impacts how queer narratives are represented in the media. Commercial interests prioritize what will sell, which often means conforming to dominant norms. Therefore, companies create products and services targeted at straight audiences while censoring or stereotyping anything deemed "unprofitable."
Advertising focuses on traditional family structures, limiting visibility for nontraditional families. Without diverse representations, businesses risk losing potential consumers, leading to a self-perpetuating cycle of exclusivity.
There are multiple mechanisms that sustain systematic exclusion of queer narratives in public knowledge. Language reinforces heteronormativity, cultural norms marginalize LGBTQ+ individuals, education fails to acknowledge queerness, religion censors alternative perspectives, and commercial interests benefit from exclusivity. To challenge these systems, we must work towards inclusive language, promote diversity in culture, incorporate LGBTQ+ stories into curricula, advocate for religious acceptance, and demand fair representation in the media. Only then can we create a more equitable world where all voices are heard and valued.
What mechanisms sustain systematic exclusion of queer narratives in public knowledge?
Systemic exclusion of queer narratives in public knowledge is caused by a variety of interconnected factors that have historically influenced the way society perceives and treats people who identify as non-heteronormative. The most significant among these are homophobia, heterosexism, and cultural conservatism. These forces lead to the marginalization of queer voices and identities in all spheres of life, including education, media, politics, and social interactions.