Cisnormative describes societal assumptions and behaviors that privilege cisgender identities (where a person's gender identity aligns with their sex assigned at birth) and marginalize or ignore transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. It is the often-unconscious expectation that everyone is cisgender, leading to practices, policies, and language that exclude or misrepresent those who are not. This normativity manifests in everything from gendered restrooms to legal documents and healthcare practices, creating barriers and biases against trans and gender non-conforming individuals. Cisnormativity reinforces a binary understanding of gender and can lead to discrimination.
Cisnormative meaning with examples
- The school's uniform policy, mandating separate attire for boys and girls, is a cisnormative practice that doesn't accommodate non-binary students. It reinforces the gender binary and excludes students whose gender identity doesn't fit those categories. This can create feelings of isolation and discomfort. A more inclusive policy would offer gender-neutral options.
- Many medical forms are cisnormative, asking only for 'male' or 'female' sex, failing to consider transgender or intersex patients. This can lead to misgendering, inappropriate care, and denial of necessary services. Inclusive forms use broader options for gender identity and sex assigned at birth, acknowledging the diversity of human experiences.
- The pervasive use of gendered language, such as 'ladies and gentlemen,' in public announcements is cisnormative and can alienate gender non-conforming individuals. This seemingly innocuous phrasing reinforces the gender binary and disregards those who don't identify with either option, making public spaces feel unwelcoming and exclusive.
- The assumption that a person's physical appearance reflects their gender identity is a cisnormative bias. People may inaccurately assume someone's gender based on how they look, particularly if that appearance deviates from expected gender norms. This misunderstanding often leads to misgendering and assumptions.