Exploring the Impact of Sexism and Feminophobia on the LGBTQ+ Community

In today's society, discussions on gender and sexual orientation are increasingly at the forefront of public discourse. However, as these discussions intensify, a disturbing phenomenon emerges: globally, gay men and lesbians suffer more discrimination and unacceptance than their female counterparts. The reason behind this disparity may not only be selective homophobia, but a deeper form of sexism.

According to interdisciplinary feminist sociologist Dr. Rhea Ashley Hosking, "femophobia"-the devaluing and policing of femininity-is a key factor in exacerbating violence against women, men, transgender, and minorities. Dr. Hoskin notes that femophobia affects not only cool women and men, but all women, and provides support for the toxic masculinity of cisgender men.

This dislike of femininity is directly linked to the dislike of women themselves, as femininity is defined as the qualities that are considered to characterize women. However, it is worth noting that femininity is not limited to women. Men can also exhibit feminine qualities and this should never be considered a crime.

For centuries, it has been a common belief in society that feminine traits are less valuable than masculine traits. When people of any gender displayed traits such as emotion, sensitivity, or even a fondness for the color pink, they were often viewed as less than superior. It is a profound misconception that being or acting female is still considered a sign of weakness in this day and age.

Among the many LGBTQ+ friends in my life, I've always seen the effects of femmephobia. My best friends and roommates are all men in the community. However, one is criticized much less than the other because of the different ways they present themselves. This is not to ignore the homophobia that my male friends may experience, but to draw attention to the fact that my female friends have a lot to worry about when they walk out of their apartments.

This hatred is fueled by the age-old notion that men should look like men and women should look like women and should not differ from societal expectations. Gender fluidity is a concept that was introduced in 1993, and it should have taken at least 31 years for people to accept that men and women depicting femininity should not be questioned for who they are.

We should not hate gay men because they are feminine, nor should we pity women because they are feminine. Femininity is a beautiful attribute regardless of gender, and I think everyone can benefit from a little more "softness" in their character.

Kendall Ann Clark
Boca Raton, Strike Magazine Content Writer