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).
Resources:
2) Canada's Hidden History: The LGBT Purge
3) The Silent Epidemic: Queerphobia and its Roots in the AIDS Crisis
Human Trafficking
Phonetic Pronunciation: hyoo-muhn-tra-fuh-kuhng
Definition:
Human trafficking is the transport of a person without their permission, with the goal of using them for their labour. The term has its origins in the slave trade. Legislation and common understanding focus on the sexual exploitation of women and children, however, all genders are victims and are exploited for many other reasons, such as organ harvesting and forced labour. Public perceptions and laws on immigration can make it more difficult for victims to escape trafficking.
History:
Human trafficking was first used in relation to the slave trade. However, early policies and laws preferred to use the term “white slave traffic”, which emphasized a focus on white female victims.
Current Usage:
Today, human trafficking is used as both a synonym to modern day slavery and an umbrella term that many other specific crimes fall under, such as labour trafficking and child trafficking
Examples:
Situational Example: A friend of mine received a job offer to move overseas that paid well, had great benefits, and offered her a visa. I was happy for her before she told me her employer took her passport, does not pay her as promised, and threatens her with deportation if she tries to find work elsewhere. I’m trying to convince her to let me call the police as I think this is a case of human trafficking
Sentence Example: “In cases of human trafficking, traffickers do not have a stereotypical look and can be educators, family members, peers, community leaders, and religious officials”
Perspective:
Historically, there has been a focus on prostitution and/or sexual slavery in trafficking policies and law. However, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime acknowledges male victims, and has expanded the definition of trafficking to include organ harvesting, slavery, and forced labour.
The treatment of human trafficking victims is influenced by perceptions of illegal immigration. In the US in particular, all ‘irregular’ migrants are considered criminals first and victims once they can prove they were brought against their will. The threat of long jail sentences and deportation can make victims more dependent on their abusers out of fear of being arrested.
Did You Know?
Only about half of US states have laws that protect sexually exploited children from being prosecuted for prostitution. This means there can be fines and jail time for being a victim, even as a child.
Sources:
(2) 8 facts you need to know about human trafficking in the 21st century
(4) The History of Human Trafficking