First Advisor
Dr. Kai Hang Cheang
Date of Award
Spring 5-23-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Sexuality, Gender, and Queer Studies and University Honors
Department
Sexuality, Gender, and Queer Studies
Language
English
Subjects
Body-Image, Desirability Politics, Trans & Non-Binary, Disability, Sex & Intimacy
Abstract
Due to the ableism, whiteness, and cisgender-heteropatriarchy in the US, people who are marked by racial, physical, neuro, and gendered differences are stereotypically considered to be less desirable. By applying a perspective informed by Disability Studies, Trans Studies, and Queer of Color Theory (including scholars like Eli Clare, Robert McRuer, Sonya Renee Taylor, Audre Lorde, Sami Schalk, Chris Finley, and Alicia Cox), I investigate how societal norms, beauty standards, and systemic oppression have disproportionately impacted the body-images and sex lives of trans and non-binary people with physical (dis)abilities. This thesis aims to shed light on the variety of ways in which we - as a society - can adapt to resist oppression by centering conversations of pleasure and joy in our lives, despite the ongoing violence and harm that minority groups are subjected to.
Recommended Citation
Mack, Elm L., "Our Body-Minds Are Not Apologies: How Systemic Oppression, Beauty Standards & Desirability Politics Impact the Body-Image & Sex Lives of Trans & Non-Binary People with Physical (Dis)abilities" (2024). University Honors Theses. Paper 1468.
Included in
Disability Studies Commons, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Studies Commons, Other Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Commons, Queer Studies Commons, Social Justice Commons