Challenging Harmful Gender Stereotypes

Harmful Stereotypes throughout Pop Culture

For my photo assignment I decided to take a picture of the bathroom sign at The Coffee Hag in downtown Mankato (center image). This local coffee shop is a strong supporter of Minnesota State University, Mankato's Gender & Women's Studies department. I spend a lot of time at this coffee shop studying and I have always thought this sign sends a great message.

The center image states "Any person may use this restroom regardless of gender identity or expression". This sign itself challenges the harmful gender stereotypes that have been socially constructed throughout pop culture. This is the first restroom sign I have seen in person that does not say "Mens, Women's, Unisex, or Family restroom". This sign is not only educating the general public but it is also making a clear statement that heteronormativity is not societies "norm". Heteronormativity is the belief that there are two distinct genders that individuals can identify themselves with; male or female. Heteronomativity expects that biological sex, gender identity, gender expression, and gender roles all align in one category which is clearly not the case. Our biological sex does not solely determine any of the categories mentioned above. Overall I believe that every individual should become more aware of these harmful stereotypes and realize how frequently they occur within our daily lives. Sometimes you may not even notice these stereotypes because they have become so normalized in society. It's crazy to think this happens and continues to go unnoticed.