Final Project Week 7

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Southern New Hampshire University *

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Sociology

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Jan 9, 2024

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1 Chanel Johnson Southern New Hampshire University IDS-400 Diversity Professor Gallon Transgender Inequality December 5 th , 2023

2 Transgender Inequality The transgender community has been on the frontline in the struggle against discrimination, harassment, and societal stereotypes for many decades now. This paper will provide a critical examination of the achievements as well as the lack of ensuring equality within the transgender community. Reliable evidence drawn from different sources can be added to the conversation and make for a better analysis. Reliable evidence from different sources can add great conversation and make for a better analysis. Thesis statement The transgender community has had to deal with discrimination, violence, and stigma because of the identity they chose to identify as. Topic - Transgender Inequality Transgender is an umbrella term for persons whose gender identity, gender expression, or behavior does not conform to that typically associated with the sex to which they were assigned at birth ( American Psychological Association, 2023). Christine Jorgensen brought it into the public eye in the 1960s when she became the world’s most famous transgender woman of her time. 1-in-30,000 men and 1-in-100,000 women undergo sex change surgery at some point in their lives (Jost, 2006). It is no secret that they have been pushing for their rights since 1959. Many transgender people remain discriminated against in society as part of the LGBTQ community. In 2021 it was reported that at least 50 transgender and gender non-conforming people were killed by violent acts (Carlisle, 2021). There have been a lot of debates about transgender laws and rights in the country which vary from state to state. Challenging laws forbidding them from marrying, enabling discrimination, and threatening their right to live together to form communities of mutual support (Blakemore, 2023). Another challenge

3 transgender people are facing is public bathroom issues by not being able to use the bathroom that best matches their identity. Population The transgender community has been greatly impacted by discrimination, violence, and stigmas based on their social identity. Transgender people have been discriminated against in the workplace, health care, and by using public restrooms to the gender they identify with. 68.5 percent reported that discrimination at least somewhat negatively affected their psychological well-being, 43.7 percent reported that discrimination negatively impacted their physical well- being, 47.7 percent reported that discrimination negatively impacted their spiritual well-being, 38.5 percent reported discrimination negatively impacted their school environment, 52.8 percent reported that discrimination negatively impacted their work environment, 56.6 reports it negatively impacted their neighborhood and community environment (President et al., 2023). Interdisciplinary lens The social science lens is the lens I chose to analyze this topic. I chose this lens over the others because by studying their culture, and human relationships, society can better understand how they live to create positive changes to fit everyone's needs. I will do this by interviewing people who are transgender and those who are not to discuss discrimination to get their intake from both sides. Constructively Collaborate We can use successful collaborative approaches to nurture engagement and drive transformation. For example, narrative-sharing and recounting one’s own stories can effectively increase public understanding of these transgender issues ( Chan et al., 2022). For instance, positive representations of transgender people in popular movies and TV series have also

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4 normalized identities. These successful approaches should be expanded and supported to bring more conversations about transgender inequality. Spreading awareness throughout schools and colleges and understanding the pronouns that the transgender population uses is also very important because we must respect how they would like to be identified. Along with in the workplace having training on diversity, biases, and knowing how to identify those in the transgender community. Collaborating with the transgender community is a must for this to succeed, social media is also a great place to spread awareness of the inequalities that going on in the transgender community by sharing their stories and ultimately ensuring that they are heard out loud through the media. Positive Elements One positive aspect of transgender inequality within the school setting was reported to have many positive experiences, including acceptance, low-to-zero levels of harassment, appropriate use of names and pronouns, and the offer to use a separate toilet (Leonard, 2022). Many education establishments are making changes to create a diverse environment with a chance for every student to fit in regardless of their gender identity. This positive change demonstrates a change in the beliefs and preferences of the educator’s society. Schools and colleges are developing strategies to cater to gender identity and expression, some colleges are even introducing gender-friendly dorms, installing unisex bathrooms, and sensitizing workers about transgender subjects. Benefit from change Discrimination has prevented transgenders from accessing employment opportunities. There are some institutions and businesses that have adopted gender-sensitive policies at their offices ( Boncori et al., 2019). The positive change in this regard has ensured that transgendered

5 employees feel welcome in their place of work with job security and stability in finances. Another issue is the lack of access to healthcare as transgender persons have experienced many barriers in getting care. The good news is that many medical organizations as well as healthcare providers are realizing that they must provide inclusive healthcare facilities with gender- affirming treatment options. It is a great positive change that will go a long way towards reducing the challenges facing the transgender community concerning health care. Healthcare professionals need to be equipped with evidence-based knowledge and confidence to start the conversation, to provide ‘permission’ and a sense of safety and security to allow LGBT individuals to express their authentic selves (O’Brien, 2016). Potential Obstacles The transgender community faces challenges such as systemic challenges including transphobia tendencies, exclusionary policies, the gender binary system, and internalized transphobia ( Chan et al., 2022) . The biggest barrier to health care reported by transgender individuals is the lack of access due to a lack of providers who are sufficiently knowledgeable on the topic (Safer et al., 2016). Another barrier the transgender population may face is being accepted by their family and friends. That alone can be very challenging by not having the support or even communication with the people they trust the most. Other obstacles include financial barriers, discrimination, lack of cultural competence by providers, health systems barriers, and socioeconomic barriers. Proposed Engagements The transgender community is as diverse as possible and part of the modern-day world and community. According to research, the transgender community across the US alone is above the two million mark. Therefore, we must adopt beneficial engagements that influence societal

6 conversations that will raise awareness of diversity and embrace transgender communities and individuals. Media is among the most powerful tools that could be used to drive positive change as far as gender inequality is concerned (Chong et al., 2019). This means that the media could find ways of developing content that addresses the social and entertainment needs of transgender people. One way this could be achieved is by slotting transgender people in plays/ movies to depict their real-life struggles and needs. We could also use social media to address challenges faced by the global transgender community and to find a solution to some of these problems. We could also use the media to challenge oppressive national and international laws against such people. Embracing diversity is possible, and with the right attitude towards transgender persons, we can make the world a better place for them. Personal Experience In my own life, I wanted to gain the knowledge to have a better understanding because my brother is considered nonbinary, so depending on how they feel they can be feminine or masculine. So having a better understanding of the term and the pronouns they use is extremely important to me as I want to support my brother to the fullest but understand it not just from the outside but also the psychological part of it, my brother's father raised him(them) who was very abusive to my brother, stopped us from visiting after. About 7 years ago I found my brother and we started a relationship as adults together. The trauma is ever-lasting, but I know as a young child something was going on, from wearing our mom's heels to putting on her dresses. One thing I can say is I'm very open-minded and when he told me I simply said I knew it. So, this is why I chose this topic because my brother dealt with a lot from his father for being who is he so to have a better understanding outside of my brother's words means a lot to me. I know some people at first struggle with coming out because of not knowing how someone will take it

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7 especially when it comes to friends and family. I personally have never gotten the chance to get close to someone who is transgender not because I didn’t or don’t want to, I just personally don’t know one. Examining Personal Bias Examining my personal bias has altered the way I perceive the world. When it comes to my own bias, I do tend to judge people before knowing who they are and their story. I can admit when I heard the stories about unisex bathrooms, I became very biased mainly because I have small children, that was the first thing that crossed my mind was my children sharing a bathroom with a transgender male/female it was scary to me at first. After this class doing my research the bias I did have changed completely. It is almost as if I had to step in the shoes of others to fully understand the who, what, and why. I say this because as a person who wants to be comfortable in the skin, I'm in, being accepted or not judged I must give the same respect. Reading the stories of transgender people being killed for being the person they are is just crazy to me. No one should have to go through these stigmas, judgment, and bullying, to do what makes them happy. This should apply to everyone, so to change people's way of thinking about acceptance we must start somewhere by letting everyone no matter their skin color, race, and sex have equal rights. When it comes to using critical analysis to research the Transgender community, and the struggles they endure daily, along with their progress in society today. I have learned a lot of great information, from history to the present to the pronouns that are used in their community. I knew transgender was a change of gender, but I didn’t know how in-depth that meant meaning I didn’t know how much this could affect the person that is transgender. Gender dysphoria is the term for a deep sense of unease and distress that may occur when your biological sex does not

8 match your gender identity (Berger, 2022) . I also didn’t know the daily struggles and how long their community has been fighting for equal rights. I do know whether you choose to be male or female that should be a person's choice we are all human and everyone is different inside and out. Impact of the Course on Understanding Diversity This course has been very informative in expanding how I might interpret diversity in society like bias, culture, and identity, and has given me a system to understand the layers of diversity. Understanding bias has made me more mindful of previously established preconceptions that could impact my points of view. Learning about diversity has featured the interconnected idea of different parts of identity, enhancing my appreciation for the intricacy of people. The fundamental abilities obtained in this course allowed me to move toward topics of diversity with a nuanced and informed point of view, encouraging a more equitable society. Influenced By Field of Study Or Profession Analyzing diversity can have a positive influence on my profession by allowing me to be more open to learning new things and meeting different people from all walks of life with a positive nonjudgement attitude. This can create trust within the workplace along with my clients. This can allow me to connect with others a lot more. How The Analysis May Be Different Looking at Transgender Inequality through natural and applied science we will be understanding transgender inequality dives into the natural and psychological aspects of gender identity. Biological research proposes that gender identity is a complicated interchange of hereditary, hormonal, and neurological elements (Safer et al., 2016). By examining the scientific literature on transgender encounters, people will see that being transgender is not a decision but a

9 complex interaction of biological variables. Psychological investigations inside the natural and applied sciences feature that psychological well-being inequality faced by transgender individuals, like discrimination, lack of social support, and identity-related stress add to higher paces of uneasiness and depression within the transgender community (Whittle et al., 2007). From the perspective of natural and applied sciences, people can acquire a better understanding of how these mental variables play a role in the biological aspects of transgender experiences. This would improve communication by encouraging understanding of the psychological side and the experiences transgender face. This awareness will promote sympathy and challenge misinterpretations that might originate from an absence of understanding. For example, perceiving that gender identity has biological establishments empowers respectful discussions that recognize the truths of transgender identities. If people were to look at transgender inequality through the humanities lens, the focus could move toward the inventive articulations and cultural narratives surrounding gender identity. The humanities focal point frequently investigates how social orders build and interpret gender roles through literature, art, and philosophy. While this gives a significant social setting, it may not capture the nuanced organic and mental aspects that the natural and applied sciences offer. Impact of the Course on Understanding Diversity This course has been very informative in expanding how I might interpret diversity in society like bias, culture, and identity, and has given me a system to understand the layers of diversity. Understanding bias has made me more mindful of previously established preconceptions that could impact my points of view. Learning about diversity has featured the interconnected idea of different parts of identity, enhancing my appreciation for the intricacy of

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10 people. Overall, the fundamental abilities obtained in this course enable me to move toward topics of diversity with a nuanced and informed point of view, encouraging a more equitable society. This awareness promotes sympathy and challenges misinterpretations that might originate from an absence of understanding. Personal Interactions In personal interactions, this essential examination prepares people to take part in conversations about transgender inequality with a more comprehensive understanding, subsequently decreasing the perpetuation of stereotypes and biases. In my own life, I encountered the worth of this awareness during a working environment conversation on diversity and inclusion. I contributed to a more informed and inclusive dialogue by combining scientific insights into the conversation. This approach worked with a more profound appreciation for the intricacies of transsexual encounters and advanced a more deferential and understanding workplace environment. Impact of the Course on Understanding Diversity This course has been very informative in expanding how I might interpret diversity in society like bias, culture, and identity, and has given me a system to understand the layers of diversity. Understanding bias has made me more mindful of previously established preconceptions that could impact my points of view. Learning about diversity has featured the interconnected idea of different parts of identity, enhancing my appreciation for the intricacy of people. Overall, the fundamental abilities obtained in this course enable me to move toward topics of diversity with a nuanced and informed point of view, encouraging a more equitable society. Conclusion

11 This paper will bring more awareness to the community along with other organizations in helping with being more diverse by including the transgender community. This is very important because we want everyone to feel included no matter their sex, and their gender identity and to stop discrimination against them. I would like others to become open-minded by the information they have taken from this paper.

12 References American Psychological Association. (2023, June 6). Answers to your questions about transgender people, gender identity, and gender expression. https://www.apa.org/topics/lgbtq/transgender-people-gender-identity-gender- expression Berger, F. K. (2022, July 28). Gender dysphoria: Medlineplus medical encyclopedia . MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001527.htm Blakemore, E. (2023, May 24). How historians are documenting the lives of transgender people . History. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/how-historians-are- documenting-lives-of-transgender-people Boncori, I., Sicca, L. M., & Bizjak, D. (2019). Transgender and gender non-conforming people in the workplace: Direct and invisible discrimination. Inequality and Organizational Practice: Volume I: Work and Welfare , 141-160. Carlisle, M. (2021, December 30). Anti-trans violence reaches record highs across the U.S. in 2021 . Time. https://time.com/6131444/2021-anti-trans-violence/ Chan, A. S. W., Wu, D., Lo, I. P. Y., Ho, J. M. C., & Yan, E. (2022). Diversity and inclusion: Impacts on psychological wellbeing among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer communities. Frontiers in Psychology , 13 , 726343. Chong, E. S., Poteat, V. P., Yoshikawa, H., & Calzo, J. P. (2019). Fostering youth self-efficacy to address transgender and racial diversity issues: The role of gay–straight alliances. School Psychology , 34 (1), 54–63. https://doi.org/10.1037/spq0000258 Hassan, A. (2023). States Passed a Record Number of Transgender Laws. Here’s What They Say . The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/27/us/transgender-laws- states.html Leonard, M. (2022). “It was probably one of the best moments of being trans*, honestly!”: Exploring the positive school experiences of transgender children and young people. Educational & Child Psychology, 39(1), 44–59. https://doi- org.ezproxy.snhu.edu/10.53841/bpsecp.2022.39.1.44

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13 Jost, K. (2006). Transgender issues. In CQ Researcher. CQ Press https://doi.org/10.4135/cqresrre20060505 National Transgender Discrimination Survey: Full Report . National Center for Transgender Equality. (2012, September 11). https://transequality.org/issues/resources/national- transgender-discrimination-survey-full-report O’Brien M, Ellis C. Perspectives: ‘Acceptance without exception for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in health and social care’? Journal of Research in Nursing. 2016;21(3):242-244. doi:10.1177/1744987116643234 Pattinson, E. M., Newman, H. J. H., & Kiemle-Gabbay, L. R. (2022). Challenges accessing physical activity from a transgender perspective: A systematic review. Sport & Exercise Psychology Review, 17(2), 19–35. https://doiorg.ezproxy.snhu.edu/10.53841/bpssepr.2022.17.2.19 President, J. C. V., Cusick, J., President, V., Gordon, Director, P., Gordon, P., Director, Manager, N. F. S., Fowler, N., Manager, S., Medina, C., Gaspard, P., Murphy, N., Khattar, R., & Wilson, N. (2023, March 22). Widespread discrimination continues to shape LGBT people’s lives in both subtle and significant ways . Center for American Progress. https://www.americanprogress.org/article/widespread-discrimination-continues-shape-lgbt- peoples-lives-subtle-significant-ways/ Safer, J. D., Coleman, E., Feldman, J., Garofalo, R., Hembree, W., Radix, A., & Sevelius, J. (2016, April). Barriers to healthcare for transgender individuals . Current opinion in endocrinology, diabetes, and obesity. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4802845/ Whittle, S., Turner, L., Al-Alami, M., Rundall, E., & Thom, B. (2007). Engendered Penalties: Transgender and transsexual people's experiences of inequality and discrimination.

Final Project Week 7

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