HETEROSEXISM
Heterosexism
is an ideology which states that heterosexuality
is the only acceptable form of sexual/cultural
expression. This view of the world is ingrained
in all areas of Irish life. Personal,
institutional, societal. On an individual level
lesbians can not be open about their sexuality
for fear of discrimination and violence. Every
day lesbians come into contact with people who
act on and therefore promote heterosexist ideas
and beliefs. In this way society upholds
heterosexist "norms" and marks other
identities as deviant. The status quo is further
enforced culturally in the arts and media, where
there are very few positive representations of
lesbians and their lives.
On an
institutional level heterosexism is enforced by
groups and organisations when they make and carry
out policy, or when they refuse to challenge
heterosexism at all levels. As a result of this
oppression the experiences, needs and ways of
living of lesbians are not valued in our society
and so they cannot participate as full and equal
citizens.
SOME EXAMPLES OF
DISCRIMINATION AND PREJUDICE
- Lesbians
cannot display their sexuality without
fear of harassment and bullying.
- The
word lesbian is frequently used as a term
of abuse.
- Images
of lesbians in popular culture are rare
and when used are usually stereotypical
and negative.
- In
most areas of employment lesbians are
forced to hide their sexuality for fear
of harassment, marginalisation or
dismissal. This is especially true in
areas such as teaching and youth.
- Poor
or no funding for or access to culturally
specific community services and
resources.
- Lesbian
partnerships receive none of the legal
recognition and partnership rights
afforded to heterosexual couples.
- Denial
of mistreatment and oppression.
- Discrimination
from religious organisations, which are
sometimes publicly funded, in areas of
employment and education.
- Denial
of marginalisation status.
- Assumption
of heterosexuality.
- Reinforcement
of heterosexist values in relationship
education. Other ways of living are
ignored or denigrated.
- Lack
of social welfare benefits to partners,
which are available to non-married
heterosexuals.
- Lack
of next of kin status, with the
possibility of removal from a shared
home.
- No
right to inheritance or pension benefits
from partners.
- Lesbian
groups and services are refused the right
to advertise in many newspapers and
magazines.
LESBIAN LIVES: GLOSSARY
THE LAW COMING
OUT
CHALLENGING
HETEROSEXISM
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