D1: Transcending Gender Labels: Exploring the Experiences of Non-Binary Identifying Students

Politicization of GLBT civil rights at both the Federal and State levels of US government, especially those surrounding marriage and employment rights, has had positive and negative influences on the GLBT population. These influences play out on campus challenging our students’ identity development. Development which is complex and intersecting the psychosocial, sexual, gender, and emotional.

This workshop uses data from a recent qualitative study where 12 GLBT and non-binary identifying college students detailed their experiences as they relate to marriage and employment equality. The findings from the study include the growing chasm of need non-binary identifying students express regarding the socially constructed gender binary as well as the intersections of heteronormativity, and cisgenderism. Using a combination of multimedia presentation, a gender scenario activity, goal setting, and discussion, this workshop lays the foundation for participants to incorporate new perspectives on gender/sexual identity in their practice.

In addition to sharing data from a recent qualitative study, the researcher/presenter will also share current research where participants can deepen their knowledge of this topic. Participants will be encouraged to share their knowledge, and contribute to discussion.