Gender Sensitivity Training: Response to Feedback Part 2: SOGIESC characteristics)

Summary

This video script explores the concept of SOGIESC (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics), emphasizing the importance of recognizing the diversity of gender and sexuality beyond the binary. The speaker discusses how each aspect of SOGIESC contributes to individual self-expression and self-determination, stressing that SOGIESC applies to everyone, not just those within the LGBTQIA community. By encouraging a deeper understanding and acceptance of these categories, the lecture aims to reduce stigma, promote respect, and support the right to express one's true identity freely.

Takeaways

• 😀 SOGIESC stands for Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics, covering various aspects of human identity.
• 😀 Sex Characteristics refer to the biological traits assigned at birth, traditionally male or female, though intersex individuals challenge this binary classification.
• 😀 Intersex individuals are those with both male and female sex characteristics, and their existence should be recognized and normalized to reduce stigma.
• 😀 Sexual Orientation is about romantic or sexual attraction, which can be towards men, women, both, or neither, and reflects a broad spectrum of possibilities.
• 😀 Gender Identity refers to one's inner sense of self, identifying as male, female, both, neither, or other genders, and is important to respect.
• 😀 Gender Identity is based on self-determination and is recognized as a human right to express one's true gender, regardless of societal expectations.
• 😀 The discussion on SOGIESC aims to be inclusive and avoid stereotypes, offering a more comprehensive understanding of human identity than just LGBTQIA terms.
• 😀 Gender Expression is how a person outwardly shows their gender, but it may not align with societal expectations or stereotypes associated with their gender identity.
• 😀 It’s essential to respect a person’s choice in how they express themselves, as long as it does not harm others or infringe upon their rights.
• 😀 SOGIESC applies to all individuals, not just those within the LGBTQIA community, because everyone has sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics.

Q & A

What does SOGIESC stand for?

SOGIESC stands for Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics. It is a framework that reflects a person's sexuality and gender-related attributes.

What is the 'Genderbread Person' and how is it related to SOGIESC?

The 'Genderbread Person' is a visual representation used to explain the different components of SOGIESC. It breaks down aspects like sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics into an easy-to-understand format.

What are 'sex characteristics' and how are they assigned?

Sex characteristics refer to the biological attributes related to one's sex, typically assigned at birth by medical professionals based on observable traits. These can include male or female sex characteristics, but some individuals are intersex, meaning they have both male and female characteristics.

Can sex assignment go beyond the binary of male and female?

Yes, some individuals are intersex, meaning they have a combination of male and female sex characteristics. This highlights the need to recognize that sex assignment can be more complex than the traditional male/female binary.

What is sexual orientation, and how does it relate to SOGIESC?

Sexual orientation refers to a person's romantic or sexual attraction to others, which can include attraction to men, women, both, or neither. It is a key component of SOGIESC, which emphasizes the spectrum of human attraction beyond just heterosexual and homosexual orientations.

How is gender identity different from sexual orientation?

Gender identity is about how an individual perceives and defines themselves in terms of gender, such as being a man, woman, or non-binary. It is distinct from sexual orientation, which relates to whom a person is attracted to.

What does gender expression mean?

Gender expression refers to how individuals outwardly express their gender through appearance, clothing, and behavior. It may not always align with societal expectations of gender roles and can vary regardless of one's gender identity.

Can someone’s gender expression conflict with their gender identity?

Yes, a person's gender expression may not necessarily match societal expectations tied to their gender identity. For instance, a person who identifies as a gay man may not fit the typical stereotype of gay men in terms of clothing or behavior.

Why is it important to discuss SOGIESC openly?

Open discussion of SOGIESC is important to reduce stigma and normalize understanding of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. It encourages inclusivity and respect for individual self-expression and self-determination.

Who does SOGIESC apply to?

SOGIESC applies to all individuals, not just members of the LGBTQIA community. Every person has sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics, making SOGIESC relevant for everyone.