culture
This piece is written by two contributors who explore the subject of heteronormativity and homophobia, how ingrained the former is into our institutions, and how we can unlearn the two to foster a more loving and accepting society. words by: Amy Leadbitter Heteronormativity is the idea that heterosexuality is the only normal and natural form of sexual orientation. This idea is accompanied by concepts of gender binarism, gender essentialism, and cisnormativity. In simple words, it is based on the assumption that there are only two distinct genders, male and female, and all kinds of sexual and marital relations are most fitting to them. This follows the perpetuation of gender norms, sexual identities, and stereotypes. This standardisation of opposite sex relations as the only acceptable way of gender expression reinforces the idea that anyone who does not follow this line is going through a “phase” and needs correcting.
Heteronormativity carries consequences for people belonging both outside of the sphere as well as for the ones inside. It creates a division between people who are straight and the ones who aren’t, meaning division between ‘normal’ heterosexual people and ‘abnormal’ LGBTQ+ individuals. These divisions not only lead to stigmatization, but they become a tool for mockery and discrimination. The alarming rate of homophobic hate crimes taking place is evidence of prevalent hatred in the wider society. People inside the heteronormative sphere remain under the constant pressure of remaining inside it, which prevents them from exploring their desires and following anything out of the norm.
But does that mean heteronormativity is synonymous with homophobia? Homophobia is the fear, discomfort, mistrust and prejudice against people who are LGBTQ+. This might happen through something as subtle as considering someone’s gender expression “unnatural”, or through more aggressive acts such as calling people names or unleashing direct hatred and abuse. Dr Herek, professor of Psychology at the University of California, describes heterosexism as an ideological system that denies, denigrates and stigmatizes any non-heterosexual form of behaviour, identity, relationship, and community. This term could be seen as analogous to systemic sexism or systemic racism.
However, it is important to separate heterosexuality from heteronormativity. Heteronormative assumptions enable homophobic behaviour rooted in stereotypes and gender norms. Challenging heteronormativity means challenging the idea that there are only two natural ways of being. The first step that heterosexual people could take towards supporting the queer community would be to think beyond the gender binary and reject the idea of natural or normal gender. This would create a space for greater acceptability of different sexual orientations
Just like racism and sexism, heteronormativity pervades societal customs and institutional ideologies. Heteronormative assumptions are ubiquitous in daily social interactions where people routinely face and habitually reinforce gender norms. To quote Dr Herek, “heteronormativity is the lens through which the world is viewed and, importantly, through which evaluated and judged”. It is not only prevalent in social communications but is also ingrained in educational, legal, political, economic and religious institutions, and socio-legal practices that promote gender binarism.
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It is also important to disown the preconceived gender norms and stereotypes. A good way to start this could be by practicing gender-inclusive language. For example, instead of asking people about a husband or wife, ask about their partner. Lend patience and a sympathetic ear when people talk about their sexual orientation, gender identity, and struggles with coming out. Reflecting and teaching oneself through the experiences of people who went through the identity struggle is a great way to learn. Most importantly, never indulge in any kind of homophobic behaviour or accept it around you. It is quite encouraging to see growing acceptability for different genders however, discrimination, prejudice and hate crimes still exist. It is, therefore, important to acknowledge and support the minorities around us and lead towards a diverse and inclusive society.
