Cissexism is a term used to describe discrimination and prejudice against individuals who do not conform to traditional gender norms. The word is spelled with the prefix "cis-", which means "on the same side," and "sexism," which refers to discrimination based on sex. The IPA phonetic transcription of "cissexism" is /sɪsˈsɛksɪzəm/ with emphasis on the first syllable. This term recognizes that individuals who identify with the sex they were assigned at birth typically experience privilege and can perpetuate harmful attitudes towards those who do not conform to traditional gender roles.
Cissexism is a term used to describe a system of discrimination or prejudice that favors cisgender individuals over transgender individuals. The term is derived from the prefix "cis-" meaning "on the same side as" and the term "sexism" which refers to prejudice or discrimination on the basis of a person's sex or gender.
Cissexism operates on the assumption that cisgender identities are superior or more valid than transgender identities, leading to unequal treatment and limited rights for transgender individuals. It encompasses a range of negative attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, and social structures that perpetuate gender norms and uphold the gender binary system.
Cissexism can take various forms, including denial of a person's gender identity, misgendering (using incorrect pronouns or terms), exclusion from gender segregation practices (such as gender-segregated restrooms or sports teams), and general marginalization or social stigmatization. It can be overt, such as direct discrimination, or more subtle, like subtle microaggressions or unconscious biases.
Challenging cissexism involves dismantling discriminatory structures, advocating for transgender rights and equality, and promoting understanding and acceptance of diverse gender identities. Efforts to address cissexism encompass education, policy changes, and promoting inclusivity and respect for all genders, thereby creating a more equitable and accepting society for transgender individuals.
The term "cissexism" is formed by combining two elements: "cis" and "sexism".
1. The term "cis" is derived from the Latin word "cis-" meaning "on this side of" or "on the same side as". It is used as a prefix to contrast with the term "trans". In the context of gender, "cis" is used to describe individuals whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, a cisgender woman is someone who identifies as a woman and was assigned female at birth.
2. The word "sexism" is derived from the term "sex" combined with the suffix "-ism", which denotes a system, practice, or belief. "Sexism" refers to the discrimination or prejudice based on a person's sex or gender, typically against women or people who do not conform to traditional gender roles.