I Think That Young People are Pressured Into Putting Themselves in a Box
By Julie, Online
Peer Educator with YouthResource.com, Advocates for Youth
Hi! My name is Julie and I am working on my Masters degree in Anthropology and Women’s Studies. I am extremely passionate about diversity in gender and sexual expression. I commit myself academically and extracurricular to opportunities that allow me to work towards the acceptance, expansion and encouragement of diversity in gender and sexuality.
I have a unique ability to talk to anyone and everyone. Many, many people have told me that I make them feel comfortable…more comfortable than anyone has. And therefore a lot of people open up to me. I love to talk to people and help them to know themselves and express themselves. I have made my own gender and sexuality journey and continue to be on it. I identify as a lesbian, gay, queer, gender queer and as a king.
All too often, I think that young people are pressured into putting themselves in a box. There are so many ways to express yourself in and outside of relationships. I am working towards a Masters and eventually a PhD in Gender and Sexuality Studies. My focus is the false dichotomy of male and female in gay and lesbian relationships well as trans people's constructions of sex and gender. Again, too often people of all ages feel like they have to fit into a heteronormative model. To be a good man you have to be masculine or to be a good lesbian you have to be butch. Or you have to have one butch and one femme in a relationship. I am focused on breaking down those assumptions and barriers.
I did not realize that I would identify as a lesbian until I went off to college. I had a difficult time coming out to myself and later to my friends and family. I have found many supportive people and would like to be a supportive person to you! Feel free to ask me about sexuality, sex, gender, safe sex and relationships or pretty much anything you are concerned about in your sexual health and well-being.
VIEW
STORIES FROM MORE YOUTH ACTIVISTS >>
ARE YOU A YOUTH ACTIVIST? CLICK HERE TO SHARE YOUR STORY >>
 Send this page to a friend >>
|
