As June unfolds, rainbow colors become more visible, symbolizing Pride Month and celebrating LGBTQ+ individuals and communities. While we have seen a significant increase in awareness and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in recent years, questions still arise about the need for such a celebration. Some wonder, “Why don’t we have a straight pride month?” or “Why do we need to celebrate someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity at all?” These are valid questions that require thoughtful responses and an understanding of heteronormativity.
Understanding the Concept of Heteronormativity
To understand why Pride is important, it’s essential to understand that heteronormative assumptions and behaviors can be unintentionally exclusionary and harmful, especially in the workplace and rural communities.
Heteronormativity refers to the assumption in society that everyone is heterosexual (attracted to the opposite sex) and cisgender (identifies with the gender they were assigned at birth) unless stated otherwise. In a heteronormative society, being straight is seen as the default or the norm, and anything outside of that is viewed as different or abnormal.
For example, a photo of a husband and wife on an employee’s desk, while a common sight, subtly reinforces the idea that this is the ‘standard’ family structure. The freedom for a heterosexual couple to hold hands in public without fear for their safety is another example of a privilege not always afforded to LGBTQ+ individuals.
Similarly, talking openly about one’s family can be fraught for those whose families do not conform to the traditional model, particularly in areas where such structures might not be widely accepted.
At nearly every meeting or conference, a common icebreaker question is asked about a man’s wife or girlfriend (as opposed to asking about a person’s spouse or use of other gender-neutral terms). While nothing is wrong with the question, it is an example of an assumption of heteronormativity.
While heterosexuality is celebrated implicitly in our society—through media portrayals, social traditions, and even laws—those identifying as LGBTQ+ often lack this visibility and representation.
The Challenge of Being Different
Being seen as different can have serious negative implications. LGBTQ+ individuals are often subjected to discrimination, exclusion, and violence. This is even more pronounced in agriculture and rural communities, where traditional values and lack of exposure can lead to less acceptance of those who are different.
LGBTQ+ farmers and those in rural areas often face unique challenges. They may experience isolation, lack of community support, or difficulty accessing LGBTQ+-friendly services and resources. They may also face discrimination or harassment in their professional lives, which can impact their mental health and economic stability. The Movement Advancement Project has further explored these challenges.
Statistics underscore the reality of the challenges LGBTQ+ people face, even in 2023. Despite 7.1% of adults in the U.S. identifying as LGBTQ+, only 46% are open about their sexuality or gender identity at work, and 45.5% have experienced unfair treatment in their careers due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. These figures reveal the stark disparity between the experiences of LGBTQ+ and heterosexual individuals in the workplace.
While it’s true that no one goes around proclaiming their heterosexuality, this is because heterosexual individuals have the luxury of their sexuality being the default assumption. For LGBTQ+ individuals, revealing their sexuality or gender identity can be an act of courage when encountering opposition from perceived societal norms.
The Significance of Pride
In this context, Pride becomes more than a celebration; it’s an opportunity to improve awareness of the existence and rights of LGBTQ+ people. Pride Month offers an opportunity to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and promote a more inclusive and accepting society.
Having a specific month dedicated to LGBTQ+ Pride also provides a platform for advocacy. It opens up conversations about LGBTQ+ rights and equity, pushing for legal and social changes that can benefit these individuals.
Why not straight pride month?
So, why don’t we have a straight pride month? The answer is that every month is “straight pride month” in a society where heteronormativity is assumed. Heterosexuality is constantly celebrated and affirmed, while LGBTQ+ individuals often have to fight to be seen and accepted.
In a world where being different can often mean being marginalized, leading to significant struggles with mental health and increased rates of suicide, Pride Month stands as a beacon of hope and acceptance when so many people feel like they are alone simply because they are different.
Pride is a time to celebrate diversity, push for equity, and stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ friends, family, and neighbors. So this June, and every month, let’s strive to create a more inclusive, accepting, and equitable world for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
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