Crafting Futures, Transforming Paradigms

New Mexico State University students in Gender and Sexuality Studies have a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of an evolving field, contributing to a more inclusive, equitable, and just society.

In today's ever-evolving society and complex global landscape, the study of gender and sexuality has become increasingly crucial. To fully understand the complex dynamics of these areas, an inter- and transdisciplinary approach that combines women's, feminist, gender, queer, transgender, and LGBTQ+ studies is essential.

The field continues to evolve to address the interconnectedness of gender, sexuality, social justice, and transnational issues. Learners are empowered to critically analyze power structures, advocate for marginalized communities, and contribute to positive change on a global scale.

Read further for more information on feminist, queer, and transgender worldmaking, research, and methods.

^{Gender & Sexuality Studies is Knowledge in Action}

Related:

• Why Gender & Sexuality Studies
• Why You Should Graduate Minor in Gender & Sexuality Studies
• Seriously, G&SS Courses

Feminist worldmaking refers to the process of envisioning and actively constructing alternative worlds and realities that challenge patriarchal structures, norms, and power dynamics. It involves imagining and creating social, cultural, and political systems that prioritize gender equality, justice, and the liberation of all genders.

Feminist worldmaking seeks to disrupt and transform existing systems of oppression by centering the experiences, perspectives, and needs of women and marginalized genders. It goes beyond critiquing and resisting patriarchal structures and moves towards actively shaping and building alternative possibilities.

Feminist worldmaking encompasses a range of practices, including feminist activism, grassroots movements, art, literature, education, policy advocacy, and everyday acts of resistance and solidarity. It involves creating spaces where feminist values and principles can thrive, where individuals can challenge gender-based hierarchies and restrictions, and where collective efforts can lead to positive change.

Through feminist worldmaking, individuals and communities challenge gender norms, fight against gender-based violence and discrimination, advocate for reproductive justice, promote intersectional feminism, and work towards dismantling systemic inequalities. It is a means of envisioning and working towards a world that is inclusive, equitable, and affirming for all genders.

Feminist worldmaking recognizes the interconnectedness of struggles and strives for intersectional approaches that address the overlapping oppressions faced by different marginalized groups. It acknowledges that gender oppression intersects with other forms of oppression, such as racism, classism, ableism, and heterosexism. 

Ultimately, feminist worldmaking is about actively imagining, creating, and working towards a world where gender justice and equality are not only ideals but lived realities. It involves collective action, solidarity, and ongoing efforts to challenge and transform existing systems in pursuit of a more just and inclusive society for all.

Feminist research refers to a scholarly approach that is guided by feminist principles, aims to challenge and dismantle gender-based inequalities and oppression, and seeks to advance gender justice and equality. It is a critical and intersectional framework that recognizes the interconnectedness of gender with other systems of power, such as race, class, sexuality, and ability.

Feminist research goes beyond traditional research methods and perspectives by centering the experiences, perspectives, and voices of women and marginalized genders. It seeks to uncover and challenge gender biases in research methodologies, theories, and knowledge production. It aims to disrupt and transform existing power structures and norms that perpetuate gender inequality.

Key characteristics of feminist research include:

1. Intersectionality: Intersectionality is a central concept in feminist research methods that recognizes that individuals' experiences are shaped by the intersection of multiple social identities, such as gender, race, class, sexuality, and ability. Researchers using intersectional approaches examine the interconnected systems of power and privilege and consider how these intersecting identities influence social phenomena.

2. Power Analysis: Feminist research critically examines power dynamics and hierarchies, seeking to understand how power operates within social, cultural, and political contexts. It challenges unequal power relations and aims to empower marginalized individuals and communities.

3. Ethical Considerations: Feminist research prioritizes ethical practices and the well-being of research participants. It emphasizes informed consent, confidentiality, respect, and reciprocity in research relationships.

4. Participatory Approach: Feminist research often involves collaborative and participatory methods that engage research participants as active partners in the research process. It seeks to amplify marginalized voices and perspectives, allowing them to shape the research agenda and outcomes.

5. Social Change and Activism: Feminist research aims to contribute to social change and transformation. It recognizes the importance of research in informing policy, advocacy, and activism for gender justice and equality.

Feminist research can take various forms, including qualitative and quantitative methodologies, interdisciplinary approaches, and a wide range of research topics and areas of study. It is a dynamic and evolving field that constantly engages with and challenges existing knowledge and practices to create more inclusive and equitable research frameworks.

Feminist methods encompass a diverse range of approaches and practices used in research that are rooted in feminist theory and principles. These methods aim to challenge and transform patriarchal structures, understand gender dynamics, and advance social justice. Feminist research methods often prioritize collaboration, inclusivity, and social justice in the research process. While there is no single set of feminist methods, here are some common elements and approaches often associated with feminist research:

1. Intersectionality: Feminist methods acknowledge the intersecting and interconnected nature of social identities and systems of oppression. They recognize that individuals' experiences are shaped by the interaction of multiple factors such as gender, race, class, sexuality, and ability. Intersectionality highlights the importance of considering these intersecting identities and power structures in research.

2. Reflexivity: Feminist researchers emphasize self-reflection and critical awareness of their own positionality, biases, and assumptions. They actively examine their own roles in the research process and how their social location influences their interpretations and findings. Reflexivity helps ensure that researchers are attentive to power dynamics and biases that may influence their work.

3. Emphasis on Marginalized Voices: Feminist methods prioritize centering the voices and experiences of marginalized individuals and communities. They seek to amplify the perspectives of those who have been historically marginalized or excluded from mainstream discourse. This includes giving voice to women, gender non-conforming individuals, and other marginalized groups.

4. Participatory Approaches: Feminist research often involves collaborative and participatory methods that engage participants as active co-researchers. This approach acknowledges that individuals have expertise in their own lives and can contribute valuable knowledge to the research process. Participatory approaches aim to empower participants, involve them in decision-making, and foster meaningful dialogue.

5. Ethical Considerations: Feminist research places a strong emphasis on ethical practices. This includes ensuring informed consent, protecting participants' privacy and confidentiality, and conducting research in a manner that minimizes harm. Feminist methods prioritize ethical considerations that respect the autonomy and well-being of participants.

6. Critical Analysis: Feminist researchers employ critical analysis to examine and challenge societal norms, power structures, and existing knowledge. They critically interrogate dominant narratives and ideologies related to gender, seeking to uncover underlying power dynamics, biases, and oppressive systems. This analysis often involves questioning and deconstructing existing theories, concepts, and methodologies.

7. Social Change Orientation: Feminist methods often have an explicit orientation towards social change and activism. Researchers strive to produce knowledge that can contribute to the dismantling of gender-based inequalities and the transformation of society. They may seek to engage in advocacy, policy recommendations, or community interventions based on their research findings.

8. Participatory Action Research (PAR): PAR is a collaborative research approach that involves active participation and engagement of the research subjects. It empowers marginalized communities to actively shape the research process, identify their needs and priorities, and implement solutions to address social issues. PAR aims to bring about social change and challenge power imbalances.
9. Qualitative Research: Feminist research often employs qualitative methods such as interviews, focus groups, and ethnography to capture subjective experiences, stories, and lived realities. These methods allow researchers to explore complex social dynamics, power structures, and the impact of gender on individuals' lives in rich detail.
10. Collaborative and Participatory Ethnography: This approach involves building relationships with research participants and actively involving them in the research process. Researchers work closely with communities to co-create knowledge, ensuring that the research is relevant, respectful, and reflective of their experiences.
11. Textual Analysis: Feminist researchers employ critical textual analysis to examine written, visual, or media texts to uncover hidden gendered assumptions, power dynamics, and representations. This method allows for the examination of gender stereotypes, discourses, and power relations in various forms of media and communication.
12. Digital Humanities: Digital humanities is an interdisciplinary field that combines digital tools, methods, and approaches with humanities scholarship. Feminist researchers can use digital humanities to analyze, visualize, and interpret gender-related data, texts, and cultural artifacts. They can uncover hidden biases, challenge traditional narratives, and amplify marginalized voices through digital archives, text mining, data visualization, and computational analysis. Digital humanities methods enable the exploration of intersectional perspectives, offering a nuanced understanding of gender, race, class, and other social identities.

It is important to note that feminist methods are not monolithic and can be adapted and combined with other research approaches depending on the research context and objectives. The key underlying principles of feminist methods involve challenging power dynamics, centering marginalized voices, promoting inclusivity, and working towards social justice and gender equality.

Overall, feminist research methods aim to challenge power imbalances, center marginalized voices, and contribute to the understanding and transformation of gendered social realities. These methods go beyond traditional approaches by recognizing the importance of lived experiences, intersectionality, and the pursuit of social justice in research.

Queer worldmaking refers to the creative and transformative process through which individuals and communities imagine, construct, and inhabit alternative ways of being and existing outside of heteronormative and cisnormative frameworks. It involves envisioning and actively constructing worlds that challenge and transcend normative understandings of gender, sexuality, and identity. 

In queer worldmaking, individuals and communities reimagine social, cultural, and political systems that are inclusive, affirming, and liberating for diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. It involves envisioning possibilities beyond binary constructs and embracing fluidity, complexity, and nonconformity.

Queer worldmaking encompasses various forms of creative expression, including literature, art, performance, media, activism, and everyday practices. It is a means of asserting agency, reclaiming space, and subverting dominant narratives and power structures. Through worldmaking, queer individuals and communities actively shape their own realities and create spaces where they can thrive, be celebrated, and challenge societal norms.

By engaging in queer worldmaking, individuals and communities challenge the limitations and constraints imposed by heteronormative and cisnormative societies. It is a way of asserting the existence and validity of queer experiences, identities, and desires. Queer worldmaking is a powerful tool for envisioning and working towards a more inclusive, equitable, and just world that embraces the richness of human diversity and celebrates the full spectrum of gender and sexuality.

Queer research refers to a scholarly approach that explores and examines topics related to queer theory, LGBTQ+ experiences, and non-normative sexualities and genders. It challenges traditional notions of sexuality and gender and seeks to understand the social, cultural, and political implications of queer identities and practices.

Key features of queer research include:

1. Non-Normativity: Queer research examines the experiences and perspectives of individuals and communities who do not conform to heteronormative or cisnormative standards. It challenges the binary understanding of sexuality and gender, exploring diverse and fluid expressions of identity.

2. Intersectionality: Queer research recognizes that sexuality and gender intersect with other systems of power, such as race, class, ability, and nationality. It examines how multiple identities and forms of oppression intersect and shape queer experiences.

3. Social and Cultural Contexts: Queer research investigates the social and cultural contexts in which queer identities and communities exist. It examines the historical, political, and cultural factors that shape queer lives and analyzes the impact of social institutions on queer individuals.

4. Activism and Social Change: Queer research often aligns with activism and social justice movements, aiming to challenge and transform heteronormative and cisnormative structures. It seeks to contribute to policy changes, community organizing, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. 

5. Reflexivity and Positionality: Queer research acknowledges the researcher's positionality and the potential biases that may arise from their own identities and perspectives. It emphasizes the importance of reflexivity in the research process and the need for self-reflection and awareness of power dynamics.

Queer research encompasses various methodologies, including qualitative, quantitative, and critical approaches. It covers a wide range of topics, such as queer identities, LGBTQ+ health, queer cultural production, queer activism, and the impact of queer theory on various disciplines.

Overall, queer research seeks to challenge and expand understandings of sexuality and gender, contribute to LGBTQ+ visibility and rights, and promote inclusivity, acceptance, and social change. It aims to create knowledge that affirms and celebrates diverse sexualities and genders while challenging oppressive norms and systems.

Queer methods refer to research approaches and methodologies that emerge from and center around queer theory, which is a field of study that challenges traditional understandings of gender, sexuality, and identity. Queer methods aim to disrupt and deconstruct normative assumptions and binary frameworks, opening up new possibilities for understanding and studying human experiences.

Here are some key characteristics and principles of queer methods: 

1. Non-Normativity: Queer methods challenge normative assumptions and categories related to gender and sexuality. They question and critique binary frameworks and fixed identities, emphasizing fluidity, multiplicity, and the existence of diverse and non-normative experiences.

2. Intersectionality: Queer methods recognize the intersections of gender, sexuality, race, class, ability, and other social categories. They aim to understand how these intersections shape experiences of individuals and communities, highlighting the complexities of identity and power dynamics.

3. Reflexivity and Self-Reflection: Queer methods encourage researchers to engage in self-reflection and reflexivity throughout the research process. This involves acknowledging their own positionality, biases, and privileges, and how these may influence the research process and outcomes.

4. Collaborative and Participatory Approaches: Queer methods often emphasize collaboration and participatory approaches in research. They involve actively engaging with and centering the voices and experiences of the communities being studied, respecting their agency and expertise.

5. Creative and Arts-Based Methods: Queer methods embrace creative and arts-based approaches in research. They may include methods such as storytelling, visual arts, performance, and other forms of creative expression to explore and communicate queer experiences and narratives.

6. Disruptive and Subversive Practices: Queer methods aim to disrupt and challenge dominant knowledge paradigms and power structures. They seek to challenge heteronormative and cisnormative assumptions and create space for marginalized voices and experiences. Many queer, feminist, and transgender methods seek to produce interventions that challenge normative ways of doing and thinking that enable structural violence and oppressions.

7. Ethical Considerations: Queer methods prioritize ethical considerations, particularly regarding informed consent, privacy, confidentiality, and the well-being of participants. They are attentive to the potential risks and power dynamics involved in research and strive to ensure ethical practices and participant safety.

8. Digital Humanities: In the realm of queer research, digital humanities can be used to examine, analyze, and interpret queer narratives, histories, and cultural productions. Digital tools and methodologies, such as data mining, text analysis, and network visualization, can help uncover hidden queer voices and representations, challenge normative assumptions, and explore the intersections of gender, sexuality, and other social identities. Digital humanities can facilitate the creation of queer archives, digital exhibitions, and interactive platforms that preserve and amplify queer histories, experiences, and contributions.

Queer methods offer alternative approaches to research that challenge traditional norms, empower marginalized communities, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and understanding of diverse experiences of gender, sexuality, and identity. They encourage researchers to question and reimagine research methodologies, fostering more inclusive and nuanced perspectives on human lives and social phenomena.

Transgender worldmaking refers to the active process by which transgender individuals and communities envision, create, and shape their own understandings and experiences of gender and the world around them. It goes beyond merely recognizing and affirming transgender identities; it involves actively constructing alternative narratives, social structures, and cultural expressions that center transgender experiences and challenge traditional binary conceptions of gender.

Transgender worldmaking recognizes that gender is not fixed or solely determined by biological sex, but rather a complex and diverse spectrum of identities and expressions. It acknowledges the agency of transgender individuals in defining their own genders and creating spaces and communities that affirm and support their identities.

This concept encompasses various aspects of transgender activism, art, culture, and theory. Transgender individuals and communities engage in worldmaking through storytelling, art, literature, and other creative forms of expression that challenge normative gender narratives and center transgender experiences. They also engage in political advocacy, community building, and organizing to create inclusive environments and challenge discriminatory practices and policies.

Transgender worldmaking is crucial for fostering social change, promoting visibility, and challenging societal norms that marginalize transgender individuals. By creating their own narratives and spaces, transgender people and communities assert their presence, challenge oppression, and demand recognition and acceptance.

It is important to note that transgender worldmaking is not a monolithic concept, as it reflects the diversity of transgender experiences and perspectives. It is an ongoing process that evolves and adapts as individuals and communities navigate their unique journeys and contribute to the collective construction of a more inclusive and affirming world for transgender individuals.

Transgender research refers to scholarly inquiry that focuses on the experiences, identities, and well-being of transgender individuals. It encompasses a wide range of topics related to transgender identities, transgender rights, healthcare disparities, social and legal issues, and the overall understanding of gender diversity.

Key aspects of transgender research include: 

1. Gender Identity Exploration: Transgender research seeks to understand and explore the diverse ways in which individuals experience and express their gender identities beyond the binary understanding of male and female. It examines the complexity of gender identity formation and expression among transgender individuals.

2. Health and Well-being: Transgender research addresses the unique healthcare needs and challenges faced by transgender individuals, including access to gender-affirming care, mental health support, and experiences of discrimination and stigma. It also examines the impact of societal attitudes and policies on the health and well-being of transgender communities.

3. Social and Legal Issues: Transgender research investigates the social, cultural, and legal dimensions of transgender experiences. It examines issues such as legal recognition of gender identity, discrimination and violence, transgender rights activism, and the impact of societal attitudes and norms on transgender individuals' lives.

4. Intersectionality: Transgender research recognizes the intersectionality of gender identity with other social identities, such as race, class, sexuality, and ability. It explores how multiple identities shape transgender experiences and the compounding effects of discrimination and marginalization.

5. Activism and Advocacy: Transgender research often aligns with activism and advocacy efforts to promote transgender rights, visibility, and social justice. It aims to inform policy changes, challenge harmful stereotypes, and support the empowerment and well-being of transgender individuals.

6. Digital Humanities: In the context of transgender research, digital humanities can facilitate the analysis and interpretation of transgender narratives, histories, and cultural representations. Digital tools and methodologies can assist in uncovering diverse transgender voices, examining patterns and themes, and challenging cisnormative assumptions. Transgender researchers can utilize digital humanities to create digital archives, explore online communities, and analyze online discourse surrounding transgender experiences. Digital humanities enable the preservation, documentation, and amplification of transgender histories, struggles, and contributions.

Transgender research employs diverse research methodologies, including qualitative interviews, surveys, quantitative data analysis, and community-based participatory research. It is informed by ethical considerations and aims to center the voices and experiences of transgender individuals in the research process.

The ultimate goal of transgender research is to generate knowledge that contributes to a more inclusive and affirming society for transgender individuals. It seeks to challenge societal biases and promote understanding, acceptance, and equality for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.

Transgender research methods encompass a range of approaches and methodologies used to study and understand transgender identities, experiences, and communities. These methods aim to center transgender voices, challenge cisnormativity, and contribute to the broader understanding of gender diversity. Here are some key transgender research methods:

1. Qualitative Interviews: Qualitative interviews are commonly used in transgender research to gather in-depth narratives and personal experiences from transgender individuals. These interviews provide opportunities for participants to share their unique journeys, perspectives, and challenges related to gender identity and transition. Researchers can explore themes such as identity formation, social interactions, healthcare experiences, and community support.

2. Surveys and Questionnaires: Surveys and questionnaires can be used to collect quantitative data on various aspects of transgender experiences, such as demographics, healthcare access, discrimination, and mental health. These methods allow researchers to analyze trends, patterns, and statistical associations within transgender populations. Including questions that capture diverse gender identities and experiences is crucial to ensure inclusivity in survey research.

3. Ethnographic Research: Ethnographic research involves immersing oneself in transgender communities and documenting the social and cultural dynamics within these spaces. It can include participant observation, fieldwork, and engagement with transgender individuals and communities. Ethnographic research provides an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences, social networks, and community practices that shape transgender identities.

4. Participatory Action Research (PAR): Participatory Action Research involves collaborating with transgender individuals and communities as active partners in the research process. It recognizes the expertise and agency of transgender people and aims to address social justice issues, such as healthcare disparities or legal challenges. PAR involves collective decision-making, community engagement, and collaborative problem-solving.

5. Visual and Media Analysis: Visual and media analysis methods focus on critically examining visual representations, media narratives, and cultural texts related to transgender identities. This includes analyzing films, documentaries, online media, and visual art to understand the portrayal of transgender individuals and communities. Researchers explore themes such as representation, visibility, and the impact of media on public perception and attitudes towards transgender individuals.

6. Intersectional Approaches: Transgender research often adopts intersectional approaches that consider how gender identity intersects with other social categories, such as race, ethnicity, class, and sexuality. Understanding the unique experiences of transgender individuals within different social contexts helps identify the complexities of intersecting identities and experiences of discrimination or privilege.

7. Reflexivity and Ethics: Transgender research methods emphasize reflexivity, acknowledging the researcher's positionality, biases, and potential impact on the research process. Researchers must navigate ethical considerations, including informed consent, confidentiality, and ensuring the safety and well-being of participants.

8. Digital Humanities: Digital humanities in transgender research involves using digital tools and methodologies to analyze and interpret transgender narratives, histories, and cultural representations. Researchers can employ text mining, data visualization, and corpus analysis to examine transgender-related texts, identify patterns, and uncover shifts in language and discourse over time. Digital humanities also enable the creation of digital archives and collections that preserve and amplify transgender voices, experiences, and cultural artifacts. By applying digital humanities methods, researchers can uncover hidden stories, challenge normative assumptions, and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of transgender identities and communities.

These methods aim to foster understanding, challenge societal norms and biases, and contribute to social change by amplifying transgender voices and experiences. It is crucial for researchers to approach transgender research with cultural sensitivity, respect, and a commitment to centering the lived experiences of transgender individuals.