Module 1: Introduction to Queer Studies

Module 1: Introduction to Queer Studies

Poll

How are you feeling this morning?

Open Ended

Do you have any questions regarding this chapter or assignments?

Gender vs Sex

• Sex refers to an individual's biological and physical characteristics, which are female, male, and intersex

• Gender is a social and cultural construct that refers to the roles, behaviors, and identities associated with masculinity and femininity, which are cis, trans, and gender nonconforming

• Sexual orientation refers to who you are physically, mentally, and emotionally attracted to, which are LGBP+

Sex/Gender/Sexuality System

Our system is heteronormative and patriarchal
These are all products of culture and socialization
These systems privilege those that conform to dominant identities

Outside the Binaries

• We have trans, non-binary, gender fluid, and genderqueer people

• Pronouns: they/them or ze/hir

• Intersex people

Terminology

2SLGBTQQIPAA+
Queer
LGBTQ+

Open Ended

What overall term feels the best for you?

Rise of Gay and Lesbian Studies

• Came from the multiple civil rights movements and other disciplines of the 60s and 70s

• Gay liberation movement -> gay and lesbian studies

• Discusses histories, culture, and activism

• Intersectional feminism

• Consequences of HIV/AIDS pandemic -> revolutionary tactics and rise of queer theory against the medical establishment

LGBTQIA Resource Center Vocabulary Activity