Inclusive to and for Whom? Intersex (In)Visibility and California High School Sexual Health Education

• In Event: Schools Working to Support Gender and Sexual Diversities

Abstract

Although marked by discourses of progressivism and revolutionary change with regards to protections of civil rights of LGBTQIA+ people and equitable educational policies, California’s continued discriminatory ideologies against intersex people influences public school sexual health education. Centering one high school health classroom, both in-person and after moving online, this ethnography provides a look into curriculum and instruction during the comprehensive sexual health unit. Analysis of materials and student interviews illustrate a lack of representation and perceived pathologization of intersex bodies, people, and lived experiences. Now more than ever, schools play a significant role and have a critical responsibility to rethink inclusive sexual health education and to actively engage in the education and advocacy efforts that end intersex marginalization and erasure.

Author

• Jenny Sperling, University of Oklahoma