Episode 04: Patriarchy, Power, and Oppression: Life in the Extreme Gender Binary of the Mormon Church

Instead of celebrating the rainbow of diversity that is humanity, the Mormon church has continued to double down on the black and white gender construct of hyper-masculine and ultra-feminine as the only form of accepted gender expression. The lack of inclusion for gender-queer, gender non-conforming, non-binary, trans-gender folxs, and anyone else outside these two gender boxes has led to a mental health crisis for many members and former members of LDS faith. This podcast explores the Mormon church’s stance on gender identity and gender expression and how its rigid constructs perpetuate the patriarchy, oppress the LGBTQ+ community, and harm the mental health of its members. We also explore educational resources for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies as well as paths to finding healing and community.
Resources

LGBTQ+ Center Locator

Mormon Mental Health Association

The Trevor Project

Encircle

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Available 24 hours 800-273-8255

Contrapoints

Liberal Cook

Jonathan Van Ness: Getting Curious (2022, Netflix)

Disclosure (2020, Netflix)

Transhood (2020, HBO)

Gender Revolution: A Journey with Katie Couric (2017, Disney+)

Transmormon (2014, Radiowest Films & OHO Media)

Gender Bread Person

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