This reading made many interesting points. Staring with the subject of heterosexism as a norm in society. Society places a lot of value on heterosexuality, for example the value of marriage as an institution, which is not a right granted to gay/lesbian couples. Heterosexuality is portrayed as the standard, reinforced at schools, through the media and even in the work place. In order to make a lasting change in society we must tackle the actual problem, which are the institutions that reproduce inequalities in society.
Another important point made by Suzanne Pharr is how people use label as a tool to denigrate and put down individuals. She talks about the use of the word lesbian as a negative term, because people have associated them as man haters. It is because of these labels that we create an environment of inequalities and homophobia. I think that in society if anyone is outside this idyllic way of life it somehow goes against it.
She also points out that it is because of homophobia that the women’s movement was unable to make a lasting change in society. She gives a great quote; “we wont get there, until everyone gets there”(Shaw 91) This signifies that the women’s movement is not over until all women, gays, lesbians, transgendered, people of color and everyone who has been taunted, put down and has passed through the horrors of discrimination are treated fairly and equally. Which I think says a lot about being a feminist, because being a feminist is not just about women’s issues; it is about everyone’s issues.
I had never heard of the term lesbian baiting. I learned something new today. :)
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