Module 6: 2SLGBTQIA+ and Transgender Inclusion
Introduction
Welcome to Module 6: 2SLGBTQIA+ and Transgender Inclusion!
The goal of this module is to introduce learners to key concepts related to the 2SLGBTQIA+ and non-binary community, and its inner-relationships to intersectionality, language, systematic barriers, self-advocacy and allyship. These are not abstractions; they are part of people’s lived experiences and are central to public discourses and social movements that challenge barriers to living, access to healthcare, employment, and, more broadly, what it means to be human.
The purpose of this module is to begin or deepen these reflective processes. As well as be an introduction to some concepts and theories that underpin transphobia, homophobia, and the overall oppression of the community within the context of society, with a focus on employment and the workplace. You’ll explore root causes, real impacts, and practical ways that you can responsibly take action against it.
*Note that this module is not an exhaustive learning material. The needs and issues within the community differ amongst identities and are complex. This short module does not have the entire scope to address all of them. However, it is the first few steps to an ongoing journey, as it is a source that will provide relevant resources and knowledge with a focus on the context of employment. It is important to continue the unlearning and learning of damaging discourses that perpetuate the marginalization of people who belong to or have intersecting identities within the 2SLGBTQIA+ and non-binary communities.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, you should be able to:
- Recognize laws and definitions/theories of genders and sexualities.
- Differentiate between the terms under sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.
- Recognize the barriers that 2SLGBTQIA+ and non-binary people face within the workplace.
- Identify respectful and affirming language as well as challenge homophobic and transphobic language and behaviour.
- Identify strategies to make the environment safe and inclusive for queer, two-spirit and trans people.
A Word on Language
Before embarking on the module, it is important to note the significance of language and the power it has to shape our perceptions of people. The use of appropriate, affirming, and inclusive language when interacting with 2SLGBTQIA+ and non-binary people is important. The precise usage of language in relation to gender and sexuality can go a long way toward dispelling many of the myths and misconceptions (“The Language of Gender“). At the same time, it is important to acknowledge that there is no consensus around terminology; vocabulary around gender and sexuality is constantly evolving. Gender-diverse people often need to find their own words to describe themselves and their experiences (“How to Share Information and Stories“). Like the discourse on first-person language versus identity-first language in the disability community, regardless of their arguments, it is understood that the choice is salient to the self. This rings true for gender and sexuality too, and it is important to note that what may be affirming to one person may not hold true for another.
Disclaimer: The terminology used in this module is not meant to serve as an exhaustive list of terminology or affirming language. Please do further research or look at some resources found below:
