The Important Role of Intersectionality on The Level of Mistreatment of Individuals of Multiple Marginalized Groups

Across the spectrum of sexual orientation and gender identity, individuals with non-conforming identities are subject to increased levels of victimization, discrimination, and harassment in various social contexts. In contrast, heteronormative, cisgender, white individuals generally encounter significantly less mistreatment related to their gender and sexual orientation. By examining Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, we can gain insight into the differing experiences of individuals with varying gender identities and intersecting marginalized identities. The concept of intersectionality is crucial in understanding the extent of mistreatment faced by individuals belonging to multiple marginalized groups. Factors such as race, gender, and socioeconomic status intersect with gender and sexual identities, influencing the types and levels of harassment encountered in daily life.

Understanding Intersectionality

Intersectionality, as defined by Cole (2009), refers to “the interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, class, and gender as they apply to a given individual or group, regarded as creating overlapping and interdependent systems of discrimination or disadvantage.” This framework helps to illuminate the unique experiences of individuals who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, or transgender, each facing distinct forms of harassment and discrimination.

Forms of Harassment and Discrimination

Harassment and discrimination can manifest in various forms, including:

• Heterosexist harassment: Insensitive verbal and symbolic acts expressing hostility towards nonheterosexual individuals.
• Gender harassment: Based on gender norms and expectations, leading to scorn and insult for those who do not conform.
• Workplace discrimination: Punishments for failing to adhere to gender norms in dress codes and conduct.
• Sexual harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, often exacerbated by societal stereotypes about femininity and masculinity.

Research indicates that men are more likely to endorse both homophobic and sexist attitudes, often blending these biases with humor or irony as a way to mitigate their own prejudices (Korobov, 2004). Such behaviors, while appearing innocuous, contribute to a culture that normalizes discrimination against non-conforming sexual orientations and gender identities.

The Psychological Impact of Discrimination

Experiences of harassment can have profound psychological effects on individuals targeted for their sexual or gender identity. Heterosexism, often couched in seemingly harmless humor, can lead to significant stress and anxiety among victims. Studies show that individuals exposed to “sexual minority stressors” are at a higher risk for psychiatric disorders compared to their heterosexual counterparts (Hequembourg & Brallier, 2009). The expectation of heteronormativity—the idea that heterosexuality is the standard—adds to this stress, resulting in job dissatisfaction and mental health issues.

Workplace Discrimination and Title VII

Although Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is designed to protect employees from sexual harassment, it fails to explicitly cover individuals who face discrimination due to their nonconformity to gender norms or sexual orientation. This gap in legal protection can lead to increased stress and anxiety for those who feel they cannot escape a hostile work environment (Berkley, 2006).

Transgender Experiences of Discrimination

Transgender individuals face unique challenges and levels of discrimination that merit special attention. A survey conducted in San Francisco found that 57% of transgender respondents experienced employment discrimination based on their gender identity (Badgett, 2007). Despite the high prevalence of discrimination, many individuals choose not to file complaints, fearing backlash that could exacerbate their situation.

In addition to workplace discrimination, transgender individuals frequently encounter harassment from peers, strangers, and law enforcement. Transgender women, in particular, face alarming rates of unemployment, poverty, and violence. Incarceration rates among transgender women are disproportionately high, leading to further marginalization and victimization (Reisner, 2014).

Intersection of Gender and Sexual Identity

The intersection of gender and sexual identity exacerbates the discrimination faced by individuals. Research suggests that Black and Hispanic transgender individuals experience higher rates of harassment compared to their white counterparts, highlighting how multiple marginalized identities compound the effects of discrimination (Graham, 2014). The challenges faced by these individuals often include economic instability, survival sex work, and mental health issues stemming from societal rejection.

Conclusion

The experiences of individuals with non-conforming sexual orientations and gender identities are complex and multifaceted. The interplay of various forms of discrimination—whether based on sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or class—creates a challenging landscape for marginalized individuals. Understanding the role of intersectionality is essential for addressing the systemic issues that lead to heightened levels of mistreatment. By advocating for comprehensive legal protections and fostering inclusive environments, we can work towards reducing the discrimination faced by these communities.

References

Cole, E. R. (2009). Intersectionality and Research in Psychology. In Psychology of Women Quarterly, 33(2), 170-182.

Badgett, M. V. L. (2007). Bias in the Workplace: A Study of Employment Discrimination Against LGB Individuals.

Hequembourg, A. L., & Brallier, S. (2009). Sexual Minority Stress: An Exploration of the Mental Health of Gay and Lesbian Individuals. In Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity, 1(1), 275-290.

Korobov, N. (2004). The Role of Humor in the Social Construction of Masculinity. In Men and Masculinities, 7(2), 178-179.

Reisner, S. L. (2014). Transgender Women and the Criminal Justice System. In Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 29(14), 2707-2722.

Graham, R. (2014). The Impact of Discrimination on Transgender Individuals: A Study of Mental Health Challenges. In Journal of Social Issues, 70(1), 274-290.