We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Queering Identities

LGBTQ+ Sexuality and Gender Identity

Jacob McWilliams and K. Mohrman

4.8

Based on 723 ratings

, see reviews

Jacob McWilliams and K. Mohrman

In this course, you will explore the history of LGBTQ identities, experiences, and activism. We’ll study major events in global LGBTQ history, investigate local histories of queer and transgender people and communities, and consider how LGBTQ histories have helped shape broader conversations about civil rights, equality, and justice.

Enroll now

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

Here's a deal for you

Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.

All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.

Valid until August 30

Google AI App Builder

Learn how to use Gemini API and API Studio with a three-course series from Google DeepMind

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Queering Identities

Learn and get to know your instructors that will guide you in this course.

Terminology and Key Concepts

This module provides an overview of the terminology and definitions we will be using throughout the course and establishes a plan of action for learning from and with each other as we put the terminology into practice. We will discuss regional and local variations in terminology and language use, and learners will research and identify local applications of LGBTQ+ terminology. Learners will draw on their knowledge to discuss the current state of LGBTQ+ inclusion in their context.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Taught by respected instructors in LGBTQ+ studies and activism

Examines the history and current issues of LGBTQ+ communities, providing a comprehensive understanding

Provides historical context for LGBTQ+ activism and civil rights movements

Explores the social construction of gender and sexuality, challenging traditional perspectives

Suitable for learners interested in LGBTQ+ history, sociology, or activism

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Exploring lgbtq+ identities and history

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking introduction to LGBTQ+ identities, history, and theory. Students appreciate the clear explanation of terminology and the exploration of gender and sexuality as social constructs. The course covers relevant contemporary issues and applies queer theory effectively. While some find the topics challenging or the pace varied, many report gaining new perspectives and a deeper understanding. The instructors are generally well-regarded. Overall, it's seen as a valuable foundational course for understanding LGBTQ+ experiences and history.

Instructors are engaging and expert

"The instructors were passionate and clearly experts in the field, which was great."

"Found the lectures engaging and well-delivered throughout the modules."

"Instructors fostered a respectful and inclusive learning environment for discussions."

"Their expertise made the complex theoretical topics accessible to beginners."

Provides clear, essential definitions

"The first module on terminology was incredibly helpful for grounding the rest of the course."

"I finally understand the difference between sex, gender, and sexuality clearly thanks to this."

"Excellent overview of key terms needed to discuss LGBTQ+ topics respectfully."

"Helped me grasp fundamental concepts like the gender binary effectively."

Addresses current social challenges

"Loved the section on contemporary issues like bathroom access and racism within the community."

"Applying queer theory to current events felt really powerful and relevant to today."

"The case studies made the complex concepts much more concrete and understandable."

"Discusses important topics like queer parenting and navigating religion."

Course shifts understanding of identity

"This course truly opened my eyes and challenged my prior assumptions about gender and sexuality."

"I gained such a deeper understanding of LGBTQ+ history and the social constructs around identity."

"I feel like I see the world differently after taking this course; it was truly transformative."

"Provides invaluable insights into the complexities of identity and history."

Topics can be sensitive and heavy

"Some parts were emotionally challenging given the history and discrimination covered."

"Be prepared for some difficult topics, but they are handled with care and respect."

"Requires some introspection and willingness to challenge your own pre-existing views."

"The content is deep and requires focused attention and reflection."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Queering Identities: LGBTQ+ Sexuality and Gender Identity with these activities:

Attend an LGBTQ+ Sensitivity Training

Show steps

Enhance your understanding of LGBTQ+ terminology, experiences, and best practices for creating inclusive environments.

Browse courses on Inclusive Language

Show steps

Research and identify relevant LGBTQ+ sensitivity training workshops.
Register and attend the workshop actively.
Apply the knowledge gained in your interactions and work.

Volunteer at an LGBTQ+ Community Center

Show steps

Gain practical experience and support LGBTQ+ individuals while expanding your understanding of community needs.

Browse courses on Community Involvement

Show steps

Find a local LGBTQ+ community center and contact them about volunteering opportunities.
Attend a volunteer training session.
Volunteer regularly and engage with the community.

Participate in a Peer Support Group

Show steps

Connect with other learners and share experiences to gain support and insights on LGBTQ+ issues.

Browse courses on Peer Support

Show steps

Join an online group or find a local meet-up group.
Attend meetings or events regularly.
Share your perspectives and actively listen to others.

Five other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all eight activities

Explore Historical Events in LGBTQ+ History

Show steps

Delve deeper into significant historical moments that have shaped the LGBTQ+ community's journey towards equality and visibility.

Browse courses on LGBTQ+ History

Show steps

Visit the Human Rights Campaign website to learn about key historical events.
Watch documentaries or read articles about specific historical figures or movements.
Attend online lectures or webinars on LGBTQ+ history.

Read Gender Queer: A Memoir

Show steps

Gain a deeper understanding of gender identity and the experiences of non-binary individuals through this insightful memoir.

View Breathe: Journeys to Healthy Binding on Amazon

Show steps

Read the book individually or join a book club discussion.
Reflect on the author's personal journey and experiences.
Analyze the book's portrayal of gender identity and expression.

Design a Safe and Inclusive Space for LGBTQ+ Youth

Show steps

Use your understanding of LGBTQ+ needs to create a proposal for a welcoming and supportive environment for young people.

Show steps

Research the specific needs of LGBTQ+ youth.
Develop a plan that includes physical, emotional, and social support services.
Create a presentation or proposal to share your ideas.

Create a Personal Narrative or Poem

Show steps

Express your understanding and connection to LGBTQ+ experiences through a personal narrative or creative writing piece.

Show steps

Reflect on your own experiences or those you have learned about.
Choose a format, such as a short story, poem, or essay.
Write a draft and share it with a friend or mentor for feedback.

Develop an LGBTQ+ Advocacy Campaign

Show steps

Apply your knowledge and understanding to create an impactful campaign that raises awareness and promotes equality.

Browse courses on Social Justice

Show steps

Identify a specific LGBTQ+ issue or need.
Research the issue and develop a plan for addressing it.
Create a campaign strategy and materials.
Implement the campaign and track its impact.

Career center

Learners who complete Queering Identities: LGBTQ+ Sexuality and Gender Identity will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Anthropologist

This course can be useful for Anthropologists who study gender, sexuality, or social justice. It provides a theoretical and historical framework for understanding LGBTQ+ identities and experiences, and explores cutting-edge research in the field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Anthropologist

Sociologist

Sociologists who specialize in gender, sexuality, or social inequality may find this course helpful for their research. It provides a comprehensive overview of LGBTQ+ history, activism, and contemporary issues, and exposes you to various sociological theories and methodologies for studying LGBTQ+ communities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sociologist

Museum curator

Museum Curators specializing in LGBTQ+ history or culture may benefit from this course. It provides an overview of LGBTQ+ history, activism, and contemporary issues, and explores best practices for developing and managing LGBTQ+-related exhibitions and collections.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator

Human Resources Manager

This course can equip Human Resources Managers with the knowledge and skills needed to create LGBTQ+-inclusive workplaces. It covers issues such as recruitment, retention, and benefits, and provides practical strategies for fostering an inclusive culture.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager

Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare Administrators can gain valuable insights from this course for improving the quality of care for LGBTQ+ patients. It covers topics such as cultural competency, health disparities, and end-of-life care, and provides practical strategies for creating more inclusive healthcare environments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator

Social Worker

This course may be useful for Social Workers who work with LGBTQ+ clients. It covers a range of topics relevant to LGBTQ+ experiences, including family dynamics, mental health, and legal issues. The course emphasizes building strong relationships with LGBTQ+ clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Nonprofit Manager

Nonprofit Managers working in LGBTQ+-focused organizations can benefit from this course. It provides a comprehensive overview of LGBTQ+ history, activism, and contemporary issues, and explores best practices for managing LGBTQ+-serving organizations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Manager

Public Health Professional

Public Health Professionals working in areas like sexual health or HIV/AIDS prevention can benefit from this course. It provides an understanding of the specific health disparities faced by LGBTQ+ populations, and how to develop culturally appropriate interventions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Professional

Psychotherapist

This course may be helpful for Psychotherapists who want to work with LGBTQ+ clients. It provides an overview of the unique mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people, as well as culturally competent approaches to treatment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Psychotherapist

Lawyer

An understanding of LGBTQ+ legal issues can be an asset for Lawyers working in fields such as employment law or family law. This course provides an overview of the legal landscape for LGBTQ+ people, including cases involving gender identity and sexual orientation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer

Journalist

Journalists specializing in social issues may find this course helpful for gaining an understanding of the experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people. It can help you learn to report on these issues with accuracy and sensitivity.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist

Educator

Educators who desire a solid grounding in LGBTQ+ issues would benefit from this course. It provides a comprehensive overview of LGBTQ+ history, activism, and contemporary issues. This could be especially useful for Educators who work with LGBTQ+ students or who want to create more inclusive learning environments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Educator

Social Justice Advocate

A deep understanding of LGBTQ+ issues is essential for effective work as a Social Justice Advocate. This course can contribute to that understanding by providing a historical look at the fight for equality, as well as an examination of current LGBTQ+ issues. The course may be particularly helpful for understanding less visible issues like racism and whiteness in LGBTQ+ communities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Justice Advocate

Diversity and Inclusion Manager

Diversity and Inclusion Managers who understand the intricacies of LGBTQ+ issues are important for ensuring inclusivity in the workplace. This course could be useful for understanding the specific challenges that LGBTQ+ employees face, and provides the opportunity to learn how to queer traditional approaches to diversity and inclusion work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Diversity and Inclusion Manager

Community Organizer

Community Organizers who are well-versed in matters of gender and sexuality are especially valuable to the LGBTQ+ community. This course can help build a foundation for understanding the histories, experiences, and activism of LGBTQ+ people. It could prove to be a useful resource for gaining a foundation in this work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Community Organizer

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Queering Identities: LGBTQ+ Sexuality and Gender Identity.

Who's Afraid of Gender?

Save

A cornerstone text in gender studies and queer theory, which makes the distinction between sex, gender, and desire.

Queering Identities

LGBTQ+ Sexuality and Gender Identity

Here's a deal for you

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Exploring lgbtq+ identities and history

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses