Sexual minorities are often marginalized within society due to their perceived abnormality and unconventional beliefs.
There is evidence that suggests that this marginalization extends beyond just sexual orientation and includes other aspects of identity, such as race, class, and religion. Intersecting social hierarchies play an important role in shaping how individuals view and interact with those who identify as sexual or gender minorities. This essay will explore how these intersecting social hierarchies can mediate levels of tolerance towards sexual and gender minorities, drawing upon research from psychology, sociology, and anthropology.
Race
Race has long been used to justify discrimination against certain groups of people, including those who identify as sexual and gender minorities. In the United States, for example, African Americans were historically associated with promiscuous behavior and seen as hypersexualized beings. As a result, they were targeted by law enforcement officials during the Jim Crow era. These perceptions contributed to the high rates of HIV/AIDS among black communities today. Similarly, Latinx individuals have been stereotyped as hypersexualized and viewed as "trophy" partners by white men. These stereotypes perpetuate violence against women of color and contribute to higher rates of intimate partner violence.
Asian American women have been fetishized and objectified, leading to increased sexual exploitation and trafficking.
Racial bias can lead to negative attitudes toward sexual and gender minorities within certain populations, which can impact their ability to access healthcare, housing, employment, and other basic needs.
Class
Class is another factor that can affect how individuals view sexual and gender minorities. Those who are perceived to be lower class are often marginalized and stigmatized due to their economic status. Sex workers, for instance, may face greater risk of violence because of their profession and socioeconomic background.
Middle-class families may feel pressure to adhere to strict norms regarding sexuality, which could lead them to reject children who identify as LGBTQ+. This rejection can lead to feelings of shame and isolation for the child, potentially increasing their risk of substance abuse, mental illness, and suicide.
Upper-class individuals may feel entitled to engage in risky behaviors without consequences, such as extramarital affairs or polygamy, while lower-class individuals may not have access to these same opportunities.
Religion
Religion has long been used as a justification for discrimination against sexual and gender minorities, with many religious institutions condemning homosexuality and transgenderism. In some cases, this condemnation extends beyond belief systems and into legal codes, creating significant barriers for members of these groups.
In countries where Islam is the dominant religion, same-sex relationships are criminalized and those who identify as LGBTQ+ face increased levels of violence and persecution. Similarly, in some Christian communities, sexual and gender nonconforming individuals may be excommunicated from their church, ostracized by family and friends, and denied basic services like healthcare.
There are also examples of religious groups that promote acceptance and inclusion, such as Quakers and Reform Judaism. These groups recognize the human dignity and worth of all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Intersecting social hierarchies play an important role in shaping attitudes towards sexual and gender minorities. Race, class, and religion each contribute to different forms of marginalization and oppression that can lead to increased stigma and prejudice. It is essential to address these issues head-on to create a more equitable society that values the diversity of human experience. By recognizing and challenging systemic biases, we can work toward greater acceptance and understanding for all individuals, regardless of their identities.
How do intersecting social hierarchies such as race, class, and religion mediate levels of tolerance toward sexual and gender minorities?
The intersectionality between social hierarchies like race, class, and religion can influence how individuals view and treat sexual and gender minorities. People who belong to marginalized groups, including sexual and gender minorities, often experience discrimination and prejudice due to their identities, which can make them feel excluded and isolated from society's norms and expectations.