“No Sir. No Ma’am.” Incorporating ideas of Gender Fluidity and Cultural Sensitivity within the context of a Postmodern Therapeutic Setting.

Presenter Information

Gail Moore, AID AtlantaFollow

Abstract

Needs of those impacted by HIV are not always considered by the larger system. Trans-identified persons are asked to remove their identity and conform to binary gender labels that do not reflect their experience. Thus begins a pattern of discomfort that may result in disconnect from treatment. Broadening the language of forms and educating staff on cultural sensitivity can aid in bonding with clients and engaging in care.

Proposal Summary

The days of having a Binary system of gender identification are fading. Just as previous activists adopted terms reflecting their experience, todays gender activists’ hope to rid themselves (and the larger system) of definitive labels assigning gender. Most applications, forms, questionnaires, etc ask for a gender identification of (M) male, (F) female and in some rare cases, T (transgender). Traditionally, traversing life requires choosing a marker. The current movement is to eschew labels indicative of the binary gender system. Monikers such as Genderqueer, Agender, Bigender, Two-Spirit, Genderfluid and more are replacing traditional Girl/Boy, Male/Female identities. There are places where concepts of gender fluidity are quietly becoming business as usual. Social media is one avenue frequently on the cutting edge of new movements. “Genderqueer was one of 56 gender identity options added to Facebook in February 2014 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genderqueer).” Many progressive companies such as Google, AT&T and Wells Fargo have specific language against gender identity discrimination (http://www.diversityinc.com/top-10-companies-lgbt-employees/). In 2003, Australia set the stage by allowing the use of “X” for gender. In 2011, individuals were allowed passports indicating “X,” in place of gender. Unfortunately, most hospitals, clinics and social service offices demand their clients return to the binary code. The inception of a wider based gender identity system helps to reaffirm the importance of individual expression and may aid in progressing attitudes of total gender equality. When seeking treatment for HIV, being comfortable with the provider and having one’s identity recognized may go a long way toward engaging and long-term adherence to care. Additionally, one must look at the face of their treatment facilities. It sounds good to report all people are treated fairly. However, if there are no trans-identified employees or volunteers, if staff ask questions irrelevant to care or if preferred names and gender identities go unused, the client's trust can greatly suffer. Trans specific concerns require the access to people and trainings specific to the population.

Relevance And Significance

By incorporating cultural sensitivity into clinical practice, providers can reengage those left feeling on the "fringe" of services. Making sure staff and volunteers understand the importance of not making assumptions, asking appropriate questions and being non-judgmental can help clients feel their needs are being considered. The stigma felt by members of the GLBTQ community are rampant, perhaps this medical or social services office is the only place in their small community where they are respected in their self defined "realness."

Session Format

Presentation Session

Keywords

Transgender, Trans-Identified, Stigma, Realness, Self-Defined, Postmodern Approaches

Publication Type and Release Option

Presentation (Open Access)

Recommended Citation

Moore, Gail, "“No Sir. No Ma’am.” Incorporating ideas of Gender Fluidity and Cultural Sensitivity within the context of a Postmodern Therapeutic Setting." (2015). 9th Annual Rural HIV Research and Training Conference (2014-2019). 2.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/ruralhiv/2015/2015/2