Overview
In this section of the resource:
Homophobia or Heterosexism
“Homophobia” and “heterosexism” are terms used to describe prejudice relating to sexual orientation. They refer to the assumption that heterosexuality is superior and preferable, and is the only right, normal or moral expression of sexuality. Both may also be the basis for negative treatment of Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ people based on sexual orientation. Although these terms are closely related and overlapping, they also can emphasize different aspects and expressions of prejudice, and can therefore be helpful in identifying and addressing different aspects of the discrimination and harassment experienced by Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ people.
“Homophobia” is often defined as the irrational aversion to, or fear or hatred of Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ people and communities, or to behaviours stereotyped as “homosexual.” It is commonly used to signify a hostile psychological state in the context of overt discrimination, harassment or violence against Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ people.
“Heterosexism” refers to the assumption that everyone is heterosexual. This definition is often used in the context of discrimination against Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ people that is less overt, and which may be unintentional and unrecognized by the person or organization responsible for the discrimination. It can also be useful in understanding and identifying some kinds of institutional or societal bias, although homophobia may also be at play.
- adapted from the Ontario Human Rights Commission. (n.d.). Part I – the context: Sexual orientation, human rights protections, case law and legislation. Policy on discrimination and harassment because of sexual orientation. https://www.ohrc.on.ca/en/policy-discrimination-and-harassment-because-sexual-orientation
General Education Resources
- Annenberg Inclusion Initiative (Instagram): Passionate about eradicating inequality & ending invisibility in entertainment. https://www.instagram.com/inclusionists/
- Arquives
- Egale Canada
- GLSEN's Four Key Supports - Research has identified four major supports that schools can use to cultivate a safe and supportive environment for all students.
- Learning for Justice - https://www.learningforjustice.org/
- Momentum Canada
- Queer Collective Toronto
- Safe at School – Racism, Sexism & Homophobia
- Super Queeroes
- Supporting LGBTQ+ Racialized Youth
- We Are Allies
Performing Arts Resources
- The Queer Curriculum - Queer Performing Arts Resources
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Diversities in gender and sexuality video series - Brock: https://brocku.ca/diversities-in-actor-training/diversities-in-gender-and-sexuality/
- Diversities in gender and sexuality I: Histories of representation of gender in the theatre
- Diversities in gender and sexuality II: Gender minoritization in contemporary theatre practice
- Diversities in gender and sexuality III: Psychophysical strategies for supporting gender diversity in actor training
- Diversities in gender and sexuality IV: Queer and trans performance strategies in contemporary Canadian theatre and performance
- HowlRound
- Wernick, L. J., Kulick, A., Dessel, A. B., & Graham, L. F. (2016). Theater and Dialogue to Increase Youth’s Intentions to Advocate for LGBTQQ People. Research on Social Work Practice, 26(2), 189-202. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049731514539417
Community Practitioners
TRISTAN R. WHISTON was artist-in-residence at Central Toronto Youth Services, directing Gender Play (2004-2010) working with LGBTQ youth to explore issues and experiences of gender, and, most recently, Transcend, a group exploring gender through art and activism (2012-2017).
Picture Books for Entry Points
Plays and Other Sources
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