Understanding and Addressing Cissexism
Have you ever heard of cissexism? It’s a form of discrimination against transgender individuals that stems from the idea that being cisgender, or identifying with the gender you were assigned at birth, is the norm.
This can manifest in subtle ways, such as using the wrong pronouns for someone, or in more overt ways, like denying someone a job or housing because of their gender identity. Cissexism is a relatively new concept, but it’s becoming more prevalent as transgender issues gain more attention in the media.
Unfortunately, many people may not even realize that they are perpetuating cissexism due to the unconscious nature of these prejudiced thoughts. In this article, we’ll explore this new form of discrimination and how we can work to combat it.
What is Cissexism? Cissexism refers to the belief that non-transgender people are somehow more “normal” or “natural” than transgender people.
This bias can be intentional or unintentional, and it can manifest in a number of ways. Some examples include:
– Using the wrong pronouns for someone, such as calling a transgender woman “he” instead of “she”
– Refusing to use a transgender person’s chosen name
– Treating transgender people differently than non-transgender people in professional or social settings
– Imposing gender stereotypes on transgender people, such as assuming that a transgender man is interested in traditionally masculine hobbies like sports or cars
Cissexism is insidious because it’s so often unconscious.
People may not even realize that they are discriminating against transgender people because it’s so normalized in our culture. Why is Cissexism on the Rise?
Cissexism hasn’t always been a major issue because transgender people haven’t always had much visibility in society. In the past, the lack of awareness about transgender individuals allowed cissexism to go largely unnoticed.
However, in recent years, transgender issues have come to the forefront of many people’s attention. One major event that contributed to this was Caitlyn Jenner’s public transition.
Many people had never seen or heard about a transgender person before, and Jenner’s public announcement sparked a lot of conversation and interest in transgender issues. While increased visibility can be a good thing, it doesn’t always lead to empathy or understanding.
Some people remain closed-minded and refuse to learn about transgender experiences. This lack of understanding can lead to increased cissexism, especially when combined with old prejudices and biases.
How Can We Combat Cissexism? Fortunately, there are things that we can do to address cissexism and create a more inclusive society.
Here are some steps that you can take:
– Educate yourself: Do some research on transgender issues and learn about the experiences of transgender people. This will help you understand why cissexism is hurtful and how you can avoid perpetuating it.
– Use the right pronouns: Always use the pronouns that someone asks you to use. If you’re not sure what pronouns to use, ask politely.
It’s better to ask than to assume and potentially offend someone. – Advocate for transgender rights: Speak out against discrimination and support policies that protect transgender individuals.
Attend rallies and sign petitions that support transgender rights. – Challenge cissexist beliefs: If you hear someone making a cissexist comment, challenge it politely.
Explain why their comment is hurtful and educate them on the importance of being inclusive and respectful of all gender identities. By taking these steps, we can work to combat cissexism and create a more inclusive society.
Remember, it’s important to be respectful and empathetic towards all individuals, regardless of their gender identity. Together, we can create a world where everyone is valued and accepted for who they are.
Beliefs and Examples of Cissexism
Cissexism is a societal issue that stems from the belief that cisgender individuals are somehow superior or more natural than transgender individuals. This type of prejudice is perpetuated by a number of factors including biology, lack of education, and societal norms.
Here are several beliefs and examples of cissexism that help to illustrate the harmful effects that this type of discrimination can have on people’s lives.
Biology Not the Sole Factor Determining Behavior
One of the most commonly held beliefs that contribute to cissexism is the idea that biology is the sole determinant of an individual’s behavior. The argument is often made that since women have XX chromosomes and men have XY chromosomes that sex should be the ultimate determiner of behavior.
This idea is flawed because it fails to take into account the psychological makeup of an individual. In fact, several studies have shown that biological sex is not the only factor that determines behavior.
There are plenty of examples of people who do not fit into traditional gender roles, and it is completely normal for people to express themselves differently regardless of their biological makeup.
Distinction between Sex and Gender
It is important to recognize that sex and gender are not the same thing. Sex refers to the biological makeup of the individual, while gender refers to the way that individuals express themselves socially in relation to their sex.
Essentially, sex is what is determined by biology while gender is what is determined by society. This distinction is important because it highlights the fact that gender is not a black and white concept.
Rather, there are a variety of ways that individuals can express their gender, and none of them is more valid than the other.
Public Bathroom Usage According to Natural-Born Genitals
One example of cissexism is the way that public restrooms are organized according to the sex of an individual’s natural-born genitals. This is problematic for a number of reasons.
First, it fails to recognize the existence of transgender individuals who do not identify with the gender that corresponds to their natural-born genitals. Second, it assumes that individuals who do not fit into traditional gender roles are psychologically ill, which is a faulty assumption.
By forcing individuals to choose a bathroom based on their biology, we are perpetuating a harmful system that reinforces gender norms that are not necessarily applicable to all individuals. Resistance to Transgender Individuals’ Decisions to Be Their True Selves
Another belief that perpetuates cissexism is the idea that individuals who are transgender should “suck it up” and conform to traditional gender roles.
This perspective is harmful because it ignores the experience of transgender individuals and discounts their psychological well-being. It is important for individuals to have the ability to express themselves freely and authentically, regardless of their biological sex.
By dismissing the experience of transgender individuals, we are reinforcing harmful gender norms and preventing individuals from leading happy and fulfilling lives.
Binary Gender Options on Surveys Not Applicable for All Individuals
Many surveys and other forms of documentation begin by asking individuals to “check a box” to identify their gender. This is problematic because it assumes that gender is binary either male or female.
In reality, there are many individuals who do not fit into traditional gender categories. By forcing individuals to choose between two binary gender options, we are perpetuating a harmful system that ignores the existence of a variety of gender identities.
Variations of Sexual and Gender Identity Outside of Traditional Categories
Finally, it is important to recognize that there are individuals whose sexual and gender identities do not fit into traditional categories. These individuals may be homosexual, bisexual, pansexual, demisexual, transgender, or any other number of traditionally marginalized identities.
It is important to recognize the existence of these identities and to work to create a society that is accepting and inclusive of all individuals, regardless of their sexual or gender identity. In conclusion, cissexism is a societal issue that is perpetuated by a number of harmful beliefs and practices.
By taking the time to educate ourselves about the experience of gender minorities and standing up against harmful stereotypes, we can work to create a more inclusive and accepting society for all individuals. It is our responsibility to work together to recognize the diverse beauty of identities and embrace the possibilities of human expression outside of traditional boxes.
In conclusion, cissexism is a form of discrimination that is becoming increasingly prevalent in our society. It is perpetuated by harmful beliefs, lack of education, and societal norms.
By recognizing the distinction between sex and gender, resisting the urge to dismiss transgender individuals, and acknowledging the existence of diverse gender identities and sexual orientations, we can work together to build a more inclusive and accepting society for all individuals. By understanding and addressing cissexism, we can promote a world that celebrates difference and freedom of expression without the restrictions of old prejudices and misconceptions.
It is important for us to embrace and learn from one another in order to create a brighter, more accepting, and understanding future.