H
Terms: Heterosexism, Human Trafficking
Heternormative/Heterosexism
Phonetic Pronunciation: hed-uhr-oh-nor-muh-TIV-uh-dee/hed-uhr-oh-SEX-siz-uhm
Definition:
Heteronormativity or Heterosexism, a term originated in 1991 by Michael Warner and has retained its original meaning since, refers to the assumption that heterosexuality is the normal and natural expression of sexuality. Consequently, heteronormativity assumes therefore that heterosexuality is the standard by which all other relationships are compared and judged. (2)
History:
The first noted use of the word was in 1991 by queer theorist Michael Warner in his book “Fear of a Queer Planet” to refer to how a majority of society is structured around mixed-gender dyads, consequently resulting in the marginalization of other orientations.
Current Usage:
Today, “heteronormative” or "heterosexism" is used in academic and cultural discourse in its original context, describing systems that position heterosexuality as the default. It frequently appears in discussions regarding representation in fashion, literature, and film. It is also used in critiques of social systems that reinforce traditional gender and sexuality roles, often highlighting and challenging the limitations generated by such norms (1).
Examples:
Situational Example: A researcher studies relationship satisfaction by using measures developed from studying heterosexual couples and evaluates same-sex couples against those same criteria, assuming those results represent the ideal model of a relationship.; Sentence Example: “This film reinforces heteronormative ideals by presenting heterosexual relationships as the standard.”
Perspective:
Some scholars, like Ilan Meyer, pioneer of the “Minority Stress Model” emphasize the role that implicit social systems, like heteronormativity play in the additional stress many marginalized groups experience. In his research, heteronormativity/heterosexism contributes to stress by reinforcing the idea that heterosexuality is the default, establishing sexual minorities as an “other.” This can result in discrimination, social exclusion, and internalized stigma, all of which are associated with poorer mental health outcomes (3).
Did You Know?
Heteronormativity/Heterosexism can show up in subtle ways, like forced choice forms or surveys that only present “male” or “female” options. These types of forms assume that these 2 categories are the default and apply for all individuals, a marker of heteronormativity (4).
Sources:
(1) https://www.oed.com/dictionary/heteronormativity_n
(2) https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heteronormative
(3) https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/psychology/minority-stress-model
(4) https://www.teenvogue.com/story/heteronormativity-gender-identity-sexual-orientation
Resources:
2) Canada's Hidden History: The LGBT Purge
3) The Silent Epidemic: Queerphobia and its Roots in the AIDS Crisis
Human Trafficking
Definition:
“Human trafficking involves recruiting, moving, or holding victims to exploit them for profit, usually for sexual reasons or forced labour. Traffickers can control and pressure victims by force or through threats, including mental and emotional abuse and manipulation.” Public Safety Canada“There were 3,541 police-reported incidents of human trafficking in Canada between 2011 and 2021.” Statistics Canada
Sources:
Trafficking in persons in Canada, 2021