What is "heterosexism"?

Heterosexism is discrimination or bias that favors heterosexuality (i.e. straight identities) over homosexuality; heterosexism perpetuates the idea that being straight is normal while being gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or queer is abnormal. Heterosexism effects Laredo’s LGBTQ community in many distinct way. For example:

·         We do not always have the ability to talk openly, comfortably, without fear of judgment about one’s friends, social activities, and personal relationships.

·         We sometimes have our “normalcy” questioned.

·         We are discouraged or not allowed to show affection in public with one’s partner without fear of negative reaction or hostility.

·         Our ability to be “fit” parents is often questioned.

·         We are sometimes denied rights to job security and freedom from sanctioned discrimination.

·         We are sometimes denied rights to family and medical leave for a partner.

·         We are sometimes denied our right to human dignity.

References: Gendered Worlds (2010)